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| Juniper
Juniperus communis
Genièvre
Weidewacholder
Ginepro comune |
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| Scots Pine
Pinus sylvestris
Pin silvestre
Kiefer
Pino silvestre |
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| Introduction |
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The Big Wood still contains the remnants of the classic dry Oakwood including Birch, Aspen, Rowan, Wych Elm, Holly and Juniper. Scots Pine, Oak and Beech are well represented within the wood. The Beech, while not native to the area, support some of the rare lichens.
The Big Wood has an exceptionally luxurious growth of lichens. Over 131 species have been recorded, including a number of very rare varieties. This is because the air is clean and rainfall quite low. Great Woodrush blankets large areas of the wood where the canopy thins. Rhododendron is being continuously controlled throughout the Big Wood as this invasive species prevents the natural regeneration of trees. In spring parts of the wood are lovely with Stitchwort, Bluebell, ferns, mosses and Honeysuckle, mixing with young saplings. A variety of birds can be seen from time to time in the Big Wood. Dippers, Capercaillies, Herons, Wrens and numerous species of birds of prey mixed with migrants from Crossbills to Waxwings. Wild Pheasants feed on all tree seeds as do Pigeons, but no economic or ecological harm is done as seed production is massive enough to allow for the loss.
Red deer occasionally come into the estate via the Findhorn Valley. Roe, by fraying and scent territory marking are the major cause of re-stocking failures, along with the damage caused by brown hares. The rabbit population still breeds at a low level, but are carefully monitored.
To all visitors, whether foresters, botanists, ramblers, sportsmen or children, a place like the Big Wood should give enjoyment to all.
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Sessile OakQuercus petraea Chêne sessile Steineiche Rovere |
