The Natural Tree Forest
Once intensively farmed arable land, this area is now developing naturally into a rich mosaic of grassland, scrub and young woodland. As part of Wilder Doddington, it is shaped by free-roaming cattle, returning plant life, insects and the ongoing work of dedicated volunteers.
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From Farmland to Woodland
After the final arable harvest in 2021, the field was left to rest and recover. Without formal planting, grasses, wildflowers, scrub and young trees began appearing through natural succession.
Returning Birdlife
The recovering landscape provides new feeding and nesting habitats for British birds. Skylarks sing above the grasslands, Barn Owls hunt across the estate, and rare winter visitors such as the Great Grey Shrike have been recorded at Wilder Doddington.
Returning Plant Life
Pioneer plants and wildflowers appeared first, followed by bramble, willow, oak and naturally regenerating saplings. Species such as Bird’s-foot Trefoil, Knapweed and Yellow Rattle are creating increasingly rich and diverse habitats.
Haven for Insects
The increasingly varied vegetation provides food and shelter for butterflies, bees, moths, grasshoppers, crickets and beetles. These insects pollinate plants, recycle nutrients and support the wider food chain.
Supported by Volunteers
Wilder Doddington’s volunteers help care for the land through wildlife surveys, species recording, path maintenance, tree planting and practical conservation work. Their observations also help the team track how the landscape changes over time.
Part of Wilder Doddington
The emerging woodland forms part of Wilder Doddington’s ambitious 400-year vision to restore nature across the estate. The project aims to reconnect woodlands, grasslands and wetlands while allowing natural processes to shape the landscape.
