Aerial view of Spernal and Windmill Hill
News

A first for the purple emperor in the Forest

1 July 2025
 by 
Sam Macvie, Biodiversity Data and Survey Officer
The purple emperor is the UK’s second-largest butterfly, with females having a wingspan of over 9cm across. However, the male is arguably a more impressive butterfly, with upper wings that reflect a blueish-purple hue. Find out more about how this rare butterfly is faring in the Forest - we have exciting news!
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The right tree in the right place

29 November 2024
 by 
Tom Davies MICFor, Director of Land Management
Planting trees is a widely recognised way of combatting climate change but is important to plant the right tree in the right place.
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The Heart of England Forest welcomes new Chief Executive

8 November 2024
 by 
The Heart of England Forest
We are delighted to welcome Andy Parsons as our new Chief Executive. 
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Behind the scenes: Our tree nursery is giving back

1 November 2024
 by 
Tony Strickland, Tree Nursery Operations Manager
The tree nursery is busy preparing for the upcoming tree planting season. By growing trees on a large scale, the nursery not only supports the Forest but has the capacity to help deliver the government’s tree planting goals.
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Butterfly numbers hit an all-time low across the UK 

1 November 2024
 by 
Heart of England Forest
Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count 2024 revealed the lowest number of butterflies on record - but how does that reflect on butterfly numbers and species in the Forest? 
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Not everything hides away in the winter

1 November 2024
 by 
Avery Hill, Assistant Biodiversity Officer
Winter is a time that is usually associated with cold, darkness and a lack of bug-life flying around! But did you know that there many invertebrates still active during this period?
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Fungi in the Forest

1 November 2024
 by 
Heart of England Forest
Many species of fungi can be spotted all year round, but you will see a particularly widespread array of different mushrooms and toadstools on autumnal walks. 
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