Natural England - Brettenham Heath reveals its majesty
Brettenham Heath reveals its majesty
21 January 2010
Mike Taylor and Bill Nickson had many reasons to cheer this Christmas and New Year as their guided walk on 28th December over Brettenham Heath provided one of the best days for seeing its amazing wildlife.
Red deer courtesy of Vicki Hardman
A small but enthusiastic band of walkers undeterred by the cold, set off on a frosty clear morning to learn more about the plants, birds and other wildlife that make the heath their home.
Bill said: ““Nearly half a million years ago the heath was covered by an ice sheet that deposited thin sandy soils on the chalk bedrock. During the most recent glacial period 100,000 - 12,000 years ago, glaciers did not cover the land but very cold tundra-like conditions persisted and evidence of these shifts in climate can be seen in the unusual ground formations. The soil conditions support some rare plants more commonly found in southern Europe and some as far away as Israel. At nearly 500 acres, the heath has much to see, explore and discover.”
Vicki Hardman from Manchester, who was visiting family over Christmas said: “Bill pointed out the herd of deer in the distance and we all stood in wonderment as they moved majestically across the heath. I knew this would be a perfect opportunity to take some photographs as I usually carry my camera with me on walks just in case.”
“It made me happy to have taken part in another great outdoor adventure and being guided by someone who really understands and knows his job so well. I am already looking forward to my next one!" continued Vicki.
Other highlights of the walk included wild hares displaying very early signs of spring behaviour.
ENDS
Notes for editors:
Photograph: Red deer on Brettenham Heath courtesy of Vicki Hardman
For further information contact: Linzee Kottman on 0300 060 2058/07824475359 or Heather Duncan on 07970 228388. Out of hours 07970 098005.
About Natural England
Natural England is the government’s independent advisor on the natural environment. Established in 2006 our work is focused on enhancing England’s wildlife and landscapes and maximising the benefits they bring to the public.
We establish and care for England’s main wildlife sites, ensuring that over 3,500 National Nature Reserves are looked after and improved.
We work to ensure that England’s landscapes are effectively protected, designating England’s National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and Marine Conservation Zones, and advising widely on their conservation.
We run England’s Environmental Stewardship green farming schemes that deliver over £400 million a year to farmers and landowners, enabling them to enhance the natural environment across two thirds of England’s farmland.
We fund, manage, and provide scientific expertise for hundreds of conservation projects each year, improving the prospects for thousands of England’s species and habitats. We have recently committed £6m to develop wetland areas and have detailed biodiversity action plans covering 75% of England’s species
We promote access to the wider countryside, helping establish National Trails and coastal trails and ensuring that the public can enjoy and benefit from them. For further information about Natural England please visit: www.naturalengland.org.uk