Withybed Wood

Part of Hengistbury Head Local Nature Reserve and the Christchurch Harbour Site of Special Scientific Interest,[1] the wood has developed immediately north of the archaeologically and environmentally[2] significant Warren Hill, sheltered from the sea breezes coming from the south and west over Poole Bay.

Despite its relatively small size; Withybed is of historic and natural interest; it is the only woodland area shown on an 1811 Ordnance Survey map of the Bournemouth/Christchurch region (the wildlife community also suggests that the woodland could be classified as "ancient semi-natural"),[2] and because of its unique location, lying at the landfall and departure point for birds and other flying animals using the important Cherbourg - Avon valley migration route.[3]

Withybed Wood is home to a variety of tree species including downy birch, English oak and white poplar.[3] Bluebells carpet the western fringe of the wood; foxglove and violets can be seen in the sunnier parts.[4]

The trees at Withybed support various invertebrates, most visibly the butterflies, like the purple and green hairstreak or the speckled wood.[3][4]

A recent bird census showed that the tawny owl, green woodpecker and sparrowhawk breed here either regularly or occasionally. Withybed is also home to, or visited by, the goldcrest[5] the chiffchaff and blackcap amongst others.[3]

• Hengistbury Head
• Warren Hill