Bradfield Wood is a working wood that is unique as it has been under continuous traditional coppice management since 1252, fulfilling local needs for firewood and hazel products. it is one of Britain's finest ancient woodland and is a glorious haven for wildlife. Coppicing is a traditional method of woodland management where stems are cut at ground level promoting vigorous re-growth. Some Ash coppice stools in Bradfield Wood are thought to be over 100 years old. As the coppice shoots regenerate their dense bushy growth provides excellent cover for migrant songbirds such as Garden Warbler, Blackcap and Willow Warbler. Mammal including the Stoat, Yellow-Necked Mouse, Dormouse and Badger are also resident.
On sunny Summer days the sheltered rides create the prefect habitat for butterflies, of which there are recorded 24 species. Of special note is the White Admiral butterfly which can usually be seen sipping nectar from the flowers on brambles or lone may get a glimpse of the Purple Hairstreak in the canopy of the Oaks. I was not lucky enough to see these two species.
The day we visited was dull and cool and our hope for the variety of butterflies was disappointing. I was pleased to see the Silver washed Fritillary that appeared in the afternoon, a Peacock and a Meadow Brown. However, it was fun finding other insects and some found me to bite! The Silver Washed Fritillary appeared in the afternoon. Some of the insects I saw were a male and female Scorpion Fly, Soldier Beetles, various spiders catching prey and one protecting her egg-sac, Cricket, Shield bug, Silver Y Moth, Peacock Butterfly,
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