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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BioBlitz 2024: The results

2 September 2024
 by 
the Heart of England Forest
Our fourth BioBlitz took place in the Forest at our 62 acre site at Gorcott Hill this year on Friday 5th July - Saturday 6th July. Despite the challenging weather conditions we had this year a total of 209 species were recorded within 24 hours!
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Autumn Equinox: Connecting your senses with nature

31 August 2024
 by 
Harriet Hart, volunteer
It is the season of woolly hats and cosy nights at home; pumpkin-picking and spiced lattes; bonfires and harvest festivals; but there is more to this time of year than you may realise.
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Green hay and wildflower meadow generation

1 August 2024
 by 
Julie Walton-Evans, Marketing and Communications Officer

Creating the Heart of England Forest is not just about planting trees - it is about creating, growing and enhancing a

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Veteran and ancient trees - what’s the difference?

31 July 2024
 by 
Wilf Rake, Assistant Forest Ranger
We explore the benefits that ancient and veteran trees bring to people and wildlife and discuss the difference between them.
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Behind the scenes: Growing the Forest one seed at a time

29 July 2024
 by 
Heart of England Forest
With autumn in the air, seeds, berries, and nuts are abundant in the Forest. Our fantastic volunteers have already made good headway into the collection of healthy seeds that will become the next generation of Forest trees.
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Spotlight on: Pollinators

15 July 2024
 by 
the Heart of England Forest
With a significant decline in pollinating insects and species-rich grasslands in the UK, find out how the Heart of England Forest is working to enhance biodiversity by creating diverse habitats to support our native pollinators.
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