Oak woods are dominated by both sessile and pedunculate oak trees. Birch, holly, rowan and hazel are among the other trees commonly found in this woodland habitat. Wildflowers such as bluebells and wood anemones carpet the woodland in spring, before the tree canopy shuts out the light. These woods provide a rich habitat for invertebrates, birds and mammals, along with an amazing array of fungi, mosses and lichens. Oak woodland was the top vegetation in many areas of Britain before their mass clearance by man. Those that are left were managed until around a hundred years ago.

More...