# file3

VEG:
Much of the southern part of the site is rank B22 semi-improved grassland; MG1 Arrhenatherum elatius community, with much Urtica dioica, Artemisia vulgaris, Rumex spp., Rubus fruticosus and Chamenerion angustifolium. Parts of the grassland are richer with frequent Centaurea nigra, Trifolium pratense, Torilis japonica, Achillea millefolium and Dipsacus fullonum. There is scattered A22 sycamore and Rosa sp. scrub and some planted trees; also two large ash trees. The northern end of the site is largely bare ground used as a car turning area with small patches of close-mown MG7 Lolium perenne grassland.

MANAGE:
Much of the site is hardly cut, with probably occasional mowing of parts of the grassland. The northern area has small patches of mown grassland. Many exotic trees have been planted. There is one deep rutted tractor track through the site. The best management option would be to plant up the southernmost third with additional native species, leave the middle third as grassland, mown infrequently with removal of cuttings, and leave the northern third as at present, since it is clearly used for cars by local residents.


FAUNA:
On visit Swallow and House Martin noted.

VEG:
The whole common is dominated by mown MG7 Lolium perenne grassland, with Rumex obtusifolius. MG1 Arrhenatherum elatius grassland occurs on the western bank just outside the common. The river banks are quite steep with Urtica dioica, Phalaris arundinacea, Epilobium hirsutum, Convolvulus arvensis and Potentilla anserina. There is one bush of hawthorn and Salix fragilis occurs in the south corner.

MANAGE:
The site is mown, with cuttings left. Fishing occurs from the banks.  Present management should continue, with no further pasture improvement, and areas of longer grass left, mown infrequently, to introduce a more diverse structure to the grassland.


VEG:
The western quarter of the site is a closely-mown B4 improved grassland cricket pitch (MG7 Lolium perenne community). The remainder of the grassland on the common is B22 semi-improved grassland; MG6/7 tussocky Lolium grassland with much Arrhenatherum elatius, Plantago lanceolata, Daucus carota, Aegopodium podagraria, Urtica dioica, Rumex obtusifolius, Rumex acetosa, Hypochaeris radicata, Achillea millefolium, Dactylis glomerata, Cirsium arvense, Cerastium fontanum, Ranunculus acris, R.repens, Potentilla anserina, P.reptans and Holcus lanatus.  The north-east end is less rank and has Lathyrus pratensis, Carex hirta and Festuca rubra. A ditch near the Inn has Apium nodiflorum and Epilobium hirsutum.

MANAGE:
The common is strip-grazed by cattle using electric fencing. Grazing pressure is low. Some trees have been planted. Parts of the site have been mown. Present management should continue, with no further pasture improvement. Additional standard native trees could be planted.


FAUNA:
On visit Yellow Wagtail, Sand Martin and Swallow recorded.

VEG:
The common consists of improved (B4) MG7 Lolium perenne grassland used heavily for recreation. It is degraded with bare areas. Species present include Plantago major, Rumex obtusifolius, Taraxacum officinale, Potentilla anserina, Poa annua and Trifolium repens. The river bank has an MG1 Arrhenatherum elatius community, with Artemisia vulgaris, Dactylis glomerata, Leucanthemum vulgare and Tussilago farfara. The southern boundary holds Crataegus laevigata, with Urtica dioica and Solanum dulcamara.

MANAGE:
The grass is mown and cuttings left to decay. Heavy use has degraded and disturbed the grassland, resulting in bare patches. Present management should continue, as little can be recommended for such a small area so heavily used for recreation. Additional trees could be planted in the corners of the common.


FAUNA:
On visit the following species were noted: Moorhen, Wood Pigeon, Blackbird.  
Rabbits, Moles.

VEG:
The common is an area of open grassland with a small stream running from the road to the southern boundary. There are some planted trees and an old hedge with ash standards. B22 grassland is dominated by Dactylis glomerata, Lolium perenne, Festuca rubra, Agrostis sp. with Achillea millefolium, Taraxacum officinale, Carex hirta, Ranunculus acris and Plantago lanceolata. Juncus inflexus is present along old drains. Several rough areas occur on sites of previous disturbance. Urtica dioica and Cirsium arvense are present. The F21 marginal vegetation along the stream is a mixture of Urtica dioica, Filipendula ulmaria, Pulicaria dysenterica, Solanum dulcamara, Arrhenatherum and Dactylis. The stream has abundant Apium nodiflorum by the road bridge. Along the southern boundary the stream has Epilobium hirsutum and is overhung by Salix fragilis. The southern boundary itself has tall ash, hawthorn, elm and birch.

MANAGE:
Most of the grassland had been cut for hay. The roadside verges are mown heavily. The common has two established trees, planted in the past - a copper beech and a hawthorn. The present management should continue, with no further grassland improvement.


FAUNA:
On visit the following species were noted: Goldfinch, House Sparrow, Robin, Dunnock, Chaffinch, Linnet, Blue Tit, Magpie, Yellowhammer. 
Moles.  
Peacock.

VEG:
Section (A) is a 2m wide road verge of MG7 Lolium perenne grassland, with a 1m wide MG1 Arrhenatherum elatius verge on the other side, then a bordering hedge. The hedges narrow to exclude the verge. Section (B) is a private entry to a house with adjacent areas of nettles and hawthorn scrub (hedge). The NW end of the track is mown MG7 grassland a wall and a hedge. (C) is an elm hedge on NW side with 2m of MG1 and nettles then on SE side of road are houses. Areas marked (D) are trackways with rank MG1 and nettles lying between tall hedges. Hedges are generally blackthorn, elder, elm and hawthorn with occasional standard ash trees. The southern arm of (D) south of Car Colston was not investigated in detail. The northern arm has hard standing at the entrance and extends as described above to the A46. The hedge disappears on the NE side around one third of the way along and two thirds of way on SE side. Ditches and planted trees occur.

MANAGE:
Much of the trackway length is kept down by passage of vehicles and people, though parts are mown, and other areas are very rank. Trees have been planted in places. Little practical additional management is possible on areas (A) to (C), though areas (D) could have a wider area mown with removal of cuttings. Some ditches need clearing, as they are becoming blocked with Epilobium hirsutum.


FAUNA:
The common holds a range of open country birds including Skylark and Lapwing.

VEG:
The common is dominated by B22 semi-improved neutral grassland - MG6 Lolium perenne-Cynosurus cristatus grassland, grading into MG9 Holcus lanatus-Deschampsia cespitosa grassland, in wetter areas where D.cespitosa forms tussocks. Other species present include Trifolium repens, Ranunculus acris, Cirsium arvense, Taraxacum officinale, Dactylis glomerata, Phleum pratense, Agrostis stolonifera and Festuca rubra.  The boundary ditch is steep-sided with Callitriche stagnalis, Urtica dioica, Carex acutiformis, Filipendula ulmaria, Lychnis flos-cuculi and Ranunculus sceleratus. The dense boundary hedge has elder, hawthorn, field maple, dogwood, and a few pollarded willows.

MANAGE:
It is possible that the area may have been treated with herbicides in the past due to the scarcity of dicotyledons in the sward. At present, the common is cattle grazed at moderate to high intensity, and thistles are topped. Present management should continue with no further attempts to improve the pasture.


FAUNA:
Nesting Snipe recorded in 1987 for the whole complex of meadows. Breeding species include Mallard, Lapwing, Sedge Warbler, Reed Bunting. Curlews use the area.  In winter Mallard, Teal, Lapwing, Snipe, (max.53) and Jack Snipe are present

VEG:
The area is unmanaged and dominated by Deschampsia cespitosa, Arrhenatherum elatius, Epilobium hirsutum, Juncus inflexus and Filipendula ulmaria. Urtica dioica, Rumex spp. and Cirsium spp. are increasing. The whole SSSI is considered to be one of the best remaining neutral grasslands in Nottinghamshire though Penny Pastures Common is not the highest quality part of the SSSI. The grassland is generally neutral to acidic but spring-fed areas are more base-rich and have Ranunculus sceleratus, Veronica beccabunga, Nasturtium officinale - parts of the site are quite marshy. Oenanthe aquatica occurs. Other species include Juncus articulatus, Eleocharis palustris, Glyceria spp. and Ranunculus aquatilis. Some of the wetter areas have standing water and mud at times.

MANAGE:
The common is unmanaged, and becoming rank, leading to a reduction in its botanical interest. The area urgently needs grazing, or at least cutting, with removal of cuttings, but not during  bird breeding season.


FAUNA:
On visit, the following species were recorded: House Sparrow, Blue Tit, Robin, Blackbird.  Green-veined White, Large White.

VEG:
Near the south end the common is a narrow (6m) muddy track with MG1 Arrhenatherum elatius grassland, with nettles, and a hawthorn hedge, with occasional ash standards. North of the gate marked on map the site opens out into an area of heavily grazed and trampled semi-improved neutral grassland (MG6 Lolium perenne-Cynosurus cristatus community), with an intermittent blackthorn hedge, next to a fence with a small ditch. There is a small amount of scattered hawthorn scrub. Tractor ruts are frequent.

MANAGE:
The common is quite heavily grazed by cattle. The entrance area is close-mown, and other parts are occasionally mown. Dumping occurs, and there are fire sites present. Continuation of present management is recommended.


FAUNA:
On visit the following species were noted: Robin, Starling, House Sparrow, House Martin, Swallow, Dunnock, Greenfinch, Woodpigeon. 
Green-veined White.

VEG:
Sections: (A) is 8m wide - a track with 1-2m of MG1 Arrhenatherum elatius grassland bordering a hawthorn/elm hedge with some elm and sycamore standards. It narrows to become a grassy track past house; MG7 Lolium perenne community in places. (B) is 10m wide - muddy track, cattle trampled, with MG1 on each side (1-2m), a hawthorn/elder hedge, and occasional ash standards. (C) is 7m wide a grassy track with MG1, a tall hedge on west side, small hedge on east side - both elder, hawthorn, ash, sycamore, holly. (D) is a surfaced track, 6-9m wide with MG1, a hawthorn hedge, occasional standards, narrowing to south end. (E) is a grassy MG1 track between two hawthorn/privet hedges - c.6m wide. (F) is 8m wide, a rough track with MG1, and a hawthorn/elm hedge on south side. (G): Hopyard Lane is a grassy MG1 track, c.6m wide with low hedges and occasional ash and willow. Holme and Meadow Lanes are wide, rough surfaced tracks with thin fringes of MG1 hedges and trees

MANAGE:
(A) has edges cut, as does (B). (C) is unmanaged or cut occasionally, with tarmac spread at road end. (D), (E) and (F) are occasionally mown; the latter has straw bales stored on it and some garden spoil dumped. (G) is occasionally mown. Few positive recommendations can be made for the site, given the narrow and widely-spread nature of its component parts.


FAUNA:
At Wellow: House Martin, Swallow, Pied Wagtail, Greenfinch. 
Cocking Moor: Moles, Willow Warbler, Blue Tit, Robin, Chaffinch, Great Tit, Jackdaw, Swallow, Wren, Hobby. All above noted on visit. 
Wellow Park SSSI has Grasshopper Warbler, Nightingale and Hawfinch. It is also an ISR site, grade C. There are old records of good woodland fauna and recent records of interesting Coleoptera and White-letter Hairstreak.  It is not clear whether any of these records relate to the Common Land area overlapping.

VEG:
See map: Wellow south, in village: close-mown B4 improved grassland (MG7 Lolium perenne community) with occasional J21 hedges, J5 tracks and roads, and garden frontages. MG7 grassland occurs intermittently down the road. There is a patch of MG7 at the south corner.  Wellow north main section: Mostly grassland of varying degrees of mowing and improvement with scrub and a large pond. Most grassland is semi-improved (B22), either MG7 or MG1 Arrhenatherum elatius grassland. Occasionally-mown areas are rougher, probably once acidic, now mesotrophic. Some areas are rank and weedy, with one patch of C31 Chamenerion angustifolium. A small car park provides some bare ground (surfaced with colliery spoil). Species present in B22 areas include: Agrostis capillaris, Trifolium pratense, Achillea millefolium, Hypochaeris radicata, Holcus lanatus and typical MG1 components. There has been some tree planting in the southern section of B22 grassland; mainly ash, cherry, alder and maple. More frequently mown areas tend towards MG7 Lolium perenne grassland, with Trifolium repens and Plantago spp.. The B4 improved grassland area is a close-mown, MG7 cricket pitch. One area south of the pond and the grassland north-west of the pond show acidic tendency (B12), with lower productivity.  Holcus lanatus and Agrostis capillaris are dominant, with Festuca rubra, Vicia cracca and Symphytum officinale.  The small raised section of B12 is A. capillaris dominated with frequent weedy species and Lolium, with MG1 surrounding on banks, and scattered A22 scrub. A ditch at the base of this bank has Phalaris arundinacea.  A21 scrub covers the northern part of the site; this is primarily tall hawthorn, with elder. A hawthorn hedge runs down the centre of the site, with rank MG1 grassland, Urtica dioica and Chamenerion angustifolium lying to the east next to the cricket pitch. The north-western edge of the site has a post and rail fence with an elder, blackthorn and hawthorn hedge with occasional tall ash trees.  The pond (G1) is steep-sided, with a well-worn anglers' track all round. The water is muddy and has litter floating in it. There is scattered Sparganium erectum and Epilobium hirsutum on the edge, and two major patches of Eleocharis palustris, Apium nodiflorum, Polygonum hydropiper and Juncus inflexus.  Nymphaea alba and Lemna sp. float in the water.

Cocking Lane and Moor section:   This is a wide green lane which is often wet and shady, with scrub scattered throughout and becoming dominant and dense over the eastern half. Moving north from the A616:  Initially, the lane is c.8m wide, with a thin grassy strip in between a species-poor marshy ditch and a gappy elder and blackthorn hedge. This soon grades into scrub of Salix fragilis, tall hawthorn, blackthorn and ash.  The grassland becomes c.10m wide, and wet, with much Ranunculus repens.  It is very muddy, and drainage works have led to spoil heaps and patches of E. hirsutum.  North-east of this, elder and nettles become much more frequent, with some hazel. North-east of the track to Jordan Castle Farm, the track widens to c.15m, with a wide B22 strip with hawthorn hedges.  The grassland is species-poor, tending to MG7, with areas of rank MG1 and brambles. There are scattered trees, including yew, field maple, oak and occasional elm.  As the track adjoins Wellow Park, at the SSSI boundary, it becomes very wet, with R. repens, Alopecurus geniculatus and Veronica beccabunga. It is shady, with scrub clearance and path widening having been carried out. There is a hedge on the south side. The lane widens to c.20m and becomes dominated by tall, dense hawthorn scrub, tending to woodland. There is little ground flora - it is wet, with E. hirsutum in places. Moving eastwards, ash becomes more frequent with elder beneath; also oak, and hazel scrub. The section from the last sharp bend to Cocking Moor is shady, tall hawthorn and elder, with much bramble. Ground flora is sparse, and includes Circaea lutetiana, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Glechoma hederacea, Geum urbanum, Carex sylvatica, Geranium robertianum and Deschampsia cespitosa.  Cocking Moor proper (SSSI section) is tall A21 hawthorn, almost woodland - very shady, with elder and bramble over a muddy substrate.

MANAGE:
Wellow south: close mown. More areas of longer grass should be left here, mown occasionally. Wellow North: Mostly mown, with cuttings left. There is some tree planting, and also dumping. Recreation pressure is high. Mowing levels vary - the B4 is close-mown, the rest less frequently. Mowing should continue on the area, with removal of cuttings if possible. Cocking Lane and Moor: There is some mowing of the grassland; cuttings are dumped. Drainage works have been undertaken in wetter parts of the track, but the path is still almost impassible in places. Path widening has also occurred, together with some scrub clearance and nettle clearance. Dumping takes place. The area needs additional thinning of the scrub, to allow more light through, and grass cutting, with removal of cuttings.


FAUNA:
Little information for the areas concerned: on visit the following species were noted: Wren, Bullfinch, Woodpigeon, Chaffinch. 
Weasel, Moles, Rabbit, Fox.

VEG:
Most of the sections nearer to Laxton are B22 semi-improved grassland, with tracks and hedges. The SSSI section appears to be semi-improved, though still holds Silaum silaus, Galium verum, Pimpinella saxifraga, Agrimonia eupatoria and Filipendula ulmaria. Not investigated in detail. Areas NW of Laxton: Hall Lane is a grassy track between hedges (field maple, elm, hawthorn and ash standards). The grassland is either MG7 Lolium perenne or MG1 Arrhenatherum elatius with nettles, Plantago major, Poa annua, brambles. Hedge flora includes Silene dioica, Stachys sylvatica and Arum maculatum. The E-W section (2) is ranker with MG1 and tall herb, and the hedge becomes gappy. The west end has much blackthorn scrub and very rank grassland. The western outlier is an arable field. The long southern section of the common is wooded along most of its length with a thin strip of MG1 grassland and tall herb vegetation and some scrub. The wider areas of woodland have dominant oak, with hawthorn, midland hawthorn, blackthorn, dogwood, hazel and a shady understory with nettles and brambles. Scrub species in this section include ash, hawthorn, field maple, elder, sycamore, birch and Salix cinerea. Around area (A), the strip is more open on the north side, and there are occasional other areas where the hedge comes right to the road, with little woodland. There is some dead wood and some mature oaks.

MANAGE:
The sections NW of Laxton need periodic mowing, and some planting up of gaps in the hedge. The SSSI section is mown and occasionally grazed - this should continue, with no further pasture improvement. The southernmost section of the common is mown along the roadsides - this should be maintained. Scrub and woodland should be cut back on both sides of the road to open out the woodland edge.


FAUNA:
No information available. On visit the following species were noted: Swallow, Partridge, Wood Pigeon, Chaffinch, Dunnock, Blackbird, Kestrel.  Fox, Moles, Rabbit.

VEG:
This site is very complex to describe: overall, the sykes are semi-improved grassland, with varying hedgerow cover, some hard standing and surfacing, several wet areas, and frequent patches of scrub, tall herb vegetation, and scattered trees. There are also some ditches and streams. Previous records for the SSSI sections of the common are as follows: over 80 species of vascular plant, including a wide variety of grasses. Species recorded include Anthoxanthum odoratum, Bromus hordaceus, Festuca rubra, Briza media, Primula veris, Silaum silaus, Conopodium majus, Galium verum, Rhinanthus minor, Cardamine pratensis, Ophioglossum vulgatum, Stachys officinalis, Orchis morio, Genista tinctoria, Pimpinella major, Galium cruciata, Senecio erucifolius. More detailed target notes for these SSSI areas and other parts of the common are provided on a separate sheet; see also information for CLs 79 and 33.   The complex of sykes and tracks contained within this CL unit is described below using 57 target notes, indicated on the map of the common.  The following paragraph summarises the south-easterly group of sykes, described in target notes (1) to (31):

The widest tracks appear semi-improved, and are cut regularly. A number have been at least partly surfaced with rubble or brick, and deep ruts are present.  Where the tracks are wide and level, frequent cutting has produced a generally short sward dominated by Lolium perenne (MG7 community), with Trifolium repens, Holcus lanatus, Plantago spp. etc.. Ruts have Juncus bufonius.  Galium verum, Pimpinella saxifraga, Agrimonia eupatoria, Silaum silaus, Ranunculus repens and R. acris are often present in less improved areas.  Areas of uncut grassland on track edges are Arrhenatherum elatius dominated (MG1 community), with Dactylis glomerata, Cirsium arvense, Urtica dioica, Heracleum sphondylium, Holcus lanatus, Lathyrus pratensis and Centaurea nigra.  Scrub areas are shown on the map, and are generally hawthorn, blackthorn and willow in old hedges and along drains. There are also some patches of elder scrub, and midland hawthorn is found. Scrub is generally associated with areas of uncut rank grassland.  There are several drains present, often dominated by Epilobium hirsutum, and also with Filipendula ulmaria and Urtica dioica.

Detailed notes:

(1)   Same as the rest of the surrounding field - semi-improved grassland with Cirsium arvense.

(2)  Very overgrown around the back of the farm - Arrhenatherum, C. arvense, Urtica and E. hirsutum.

(3)  This area possibly mown; generally a MG7 community, but areas of Equisetum sp. in wetter areas.

(4)  Close-mown. The ditch has E. hirsutum and Pulicaria dysenterica.  There is some hawthorn and ash along the stream.

(5)  Similar to (4), but a group of hawthorns and willows is present on the bank.

(6)  The main track is rutted with Juncus bufonius, and part disturbed, which has much Lolium, Plantago major, Trifolium repens, T. pratense.  Less disturbed side has coarse grasses, Pimpinella saxifraga and Galium verum.  The ditch has much E. hirsutum, with elder, blackthorn, hawthorn and midland hawthorn.

(7)  No longer exists, except at south end. At north end, 0.5 to 2 m wide, but becomes very thin, with hawthorn, blackthorn hedge encroaching onto path, with thick nettles at edge. Crops are planted up very close to the edge. MG1 community occurs in places.  At south end, it opens out into a predominantly Dactylis grassland, but with G. verum, C. nigra and L. pratensis.

CL 78, Laxton (continued)

(8)  A made-up track, with narrow MG1 verges and hawthorn bushes on northern half.

(9)  A rough track, predominantly a MG1 community, with Phleum pratense.

(10)  This strip is completely rank MG1 grassland with nettles by hedge.

(11)  Completely overgrown with scrub - young elder and large old hawthorns, together with nettles and rank grassland.

(12)  A made-up track in part. Where there is no surfacing, there is a weedy, ruderal community with P. major, Tripleurospermum maritimum.

(13)  A made-up track with MG7 in the centre and MG1 along the verges.

(14)  A made-up track, with MG7 grassland in places, and wide rank verges.

(15)  Very badly eroded by vehicles, and bricks have been used to partly surface it. The vegetation is mainly a weedy community with Lolium, with MG1 grassland on less-heavily disturbed areas.

(16)  A mixed grass sward, with frequent clover and locally abundant G. verum.

(17)  The part to the south has been ploughed up and planted over.  The remaining part has tall vegetation, with Phleum, some Lolium, and also Agrostis stolonifera, Odontites verna, Melilotus officinalis, Medicago lupulina, Lotus corniculatus, Euphorbia exigua, Knautia arvensis, Vicia cracca; Cynosurus cristatus is frequent with Festuca rubra.  There is a rank MG1 community in the middle of the track, and the grassland generally becomes ranker towards the north.

(18)  Rather rank, but quite a rich area. Species present here include K. arvensis, S. silaus, L. pratensis, C. nigra, A. eupatoria, M. officinalis, O. verna, Daucus carota, P. saxifraga, G. verum, Potentilla reptans.  However, the stretch is becoming overgrown with rank grasses, and should be mown, with removal of cuttings.

Within SSSI:

(19)  Apparently reseeded grassland, but with S. silaus present.

(20)  An improved MG7 sward, with some G. verum.

(21)  P. saxifraga, A. eupatoria and abundant G. verum present.

(22)  This ditch has much Chamenerion angustifolium, Epilobium hirsutum.  Rank MG1 grassland is also frequent; Hypericum hirsutum is also present.

CL 78, Laxton (continued)

(23)  A very improved MG7 sward.

(24)  Grassland containing Festuca rubra, Lolium, Holcus, Dactylis and locally abundant G. verum, R. acris, L. pratensis, P. saxifraga, S. silaus and some Equisetum sp.

(25)  The ditch has hawthorn, with C. angustifolium, nettles, Leucanthemum vulgare.

(26)  Grassland with F. rubra, Dactylis, Holcus lanatus, much Plantago lanceolata, Achillea millefolium, R. acris, Rumex acetosa, with Equisetum sp.

(27)  The ditch has dense hawthorn and willow, with Rosa sp. and some Dipsacus fullonum. Also Polygonum persicaria.

(28)  Grassland - not investigated.

(29)  An area of hawthorn, willow and Rosa sp. along ditch, with E. hirsutum, nettles and hogweed along south side of ditch. Small bridge has Senecio erucifolius growing by it.

(30)  Dumped machinery and telegraph poles, overgrown with nettles, willowherb and rough grasses.  Also some dumping of farm waste on verge.

(31)  Mostly a surfaced track with a narrow verge to east. Western verge is wider and covered in nettles.

SSSI section NW of Laxton:
(N.B. little time spent here)

(32)  An area of grassland between two arable fields. Arrhenatherum is dominant, with P. lanceolata, D. carota, Heracleum sphondylium, L. pratensis, P. dysenterica, Prunella vulgaris, Trifolium pratense, M. lupulina, R. acris, C. nigra, Lotus corniculatus and E. hirusutum along stream. Photograph taken.

(33)  Many tractor ruts through this area; the sward is quite damaged. Agrostis stolonifera, Juncus inflexus, P. dysenterica, Carex flacca, Equisetum sp., Eleocharis palustris, S. silaus and Cardamine pratensis present, but generally the sward is very rank.

Remaining non-SSSI sections:

(34)  Track overgrown with brambles; Centaurea nigra frequent. Grassland area to NW is semi-improved, at edge of arable field; it is mown, and cuttings not removed.

(35)  Stream: dense community of E. hirsutum, F. ulmaria, U. dioica, C. angustifolium, together with scrub - hawthorn, ash, Salix sp., dense along stream.  Galium aparine and G. verum present.


CL 78, Laxton (continued)

(36)  Track round edge of arable field, with hedge on one side. Species present include L. vulgare, Lolium, Phleum, T. pratense, Geranium dissectum, R. acris, V. cracca, Cirsium arvense, L. pratensis, A. stolonifera and Gnaphalium uliginosum.

(37)  A sunken lane, very overgrown; hawthorn scrub is dominant, with blackthorn, Rosa sp., Torilis japonica and K. arvensis.

(38)  This widens out and becomes passable with hedges on both sides. Tall herb comminities present, and also Carex hirta.

(39)  A small sunken lane, very overgrown with blackthorn.

(40)  An open trackway, with no features of interest.

(41)  Mown MG1 Arrhenatherum grassland.

(42)  A grassy track, predominantly MG1, with Geranium pratense.

(43)  A surfaced track.

(44)  An open, surfaced track, with MG1 grassland along edge.

(45)  A bare track, running between arable fields.

(46)  An area of semi-improved grassland, with some scrub and a ditch.  The grassland is species-poor MG6 Cynosurus cristatus-Lolium perenne community, with Lotus corniculatus, Odontites verna.  Hawthorn scrub occurs along stream, with willows and a rank MG1 community with ruderals.  There has been some planting of ash trees in the NW corner (TP); NW of this is rank MG1 grassland.

(47)  Trackway with semi-improved grassland and hedges; not surveyed.

(48)  These sections apparently do not exist on the ground - they are parts of arable fields.

(49)  A ditch, with fringing banks of nettles.

(50)  A 2m wide track, dominated by MG1 grassland, with a hawthorn hedge.

(51)  A 2m wide trackway, consisting of mown MG1 only.

(52)  A 2m wide trackway of mown MG1 grassland.

(53)  Similar trackways, with no distinguishing features.

(54)  A small area of mown, semi-improved grassland (MG6 community), with a large patch of nettles, and scrub in the eastern promontory.  The track running north from this is dominated by MG1 grassland with a hedge.



CL 78, Laxton (continued)

(55)  A wide trackway, consisting of mown Lolium dominated grassland, patches of rougher MG1 grassland, and areas of tree planting, principally ash.  E. hirsutum and P. dysenterica present.  Northern boundary is an elm hedge.  At western end, the area tapers into a width of MG1 with a hawthorn hedge; L. corniculatus, Lathyrus pratensis and Trifolium pratense are frequent here.
 
(56)  An area of mown, semi-improved  MG6 grassland; cuttings left to decay.  The eastern boundary is a thick hawthorn hedge ovre a ditch, extending southwards into a hawthorn/blackthorn hedge.

(57)  A rough trackway, with hawthorn hedges, a ditch, and thin strips of mown MG1 Arrhenatherum grassland.


General note

Although we surveyed the area late in the season, and were not able to spend much time in the best areas, it was our impression that the quality of the grasslands, especially the SSSI sections, had declined in comparison with previous descriptions of the site.  Most of the grassland contained within Laxton sykes appears to be semi-improved. The continued low grazing levels in comparison with the past, frequent disturbance by vehicles, and possible fertiliser and pesticide contamination from the adjacent arable fields, do not bode well for the long-term survival of the botanical interest of the grasslands, even with sympathetic management.

MANAGE:
Around Laxton, a community of tenant farmers work their land in common. A hay crop is taken from most areas, followed by aftermath grazing, but in recent years, the grazing has been rather erratic. Some areas are simply mown, and used as access tracks to the arable fields. The management system in the vicinity of Laxton is governed by an annual Court Leet. Other management practices noted during the visit include: a small amount of tree planting, dumping and storage of materials, track surfacing, some grassland reseeding in the past, and some small-scale ploughing of sykes. It is difficult to suggest further management activities to enhance the value of the grass sykes, due to their narrowness and their present use as access tracks for vehicles. However, there should be no further grassland improvement, and hedges should be maintained.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey:  Pheasant, Wood pigeon, Moorhen.
Rabbits, Anthills. Recorded: water vole.

Recorded: 4 ladybird species, White-legged damselfly (Notable species), 18 species of butterfly (Dingy skipper, Small Heath, Painted Lady, Dark Green Fritillary, Wall Brown, Comma, Peacock, Small White, Small Tortoiseshell, Brown Argus, Gatekeeper, Meadow Brown, Green-veined White, Orange Tip, Common Blue, Marbled White, Small Skipper).                            

Willow flea beetle, Hawthorn Leaf Beetle, Malachite Beetle, Cereal leaf Beetle, Common earwig.

VEG:
The field is edged by scrub with {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Sorbus aucuparia} with {\it Rubus fruticosus} stands, {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Clematis vitalba}.
The flood plain area downslope has much {\it Molinia caerulea, Dactylis glomerata, Ranunculus ficaria, Filipendula ulmaria, Dipsacus fullonum}.
Alongside the river Evenlode there are overhanging {\it Alnus glutinosa}, stands of {\it Phragmites australis, Urtica dioica, Chamerion angustifolium, Anthriscus sylvestris}. A stand of {\it C. monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} lies at the bottom of the slope onto the floodplain.

The unimproved calcareous grassland that makes up the main area of this common supports {\it Bromus erectus, Primula elatior, Sanguisorba minor, Hypericum} sp. {\it Achillea millefolium, Centaurea nigra, Knautia arvensis, Galium verum, Anacamptis pyramidalis, Helianthemum nummularium, Anthyllis vulneraria, Reseda lutea, Viola} spp. {\it Linaria vulgaris, Ophrys apifera, Thesium humifusum}.

MANAGE:
No grazing at present but English Nature fencing part of the common and re-introducing cattle grazing this year. The Common will be subject to an ESA agreement. No amenity problems at present. Burnt areas found during survey assumed to be vandalism.


FAUNA:
Birds seen at time of survey: Magpie, Great-spotted woodpecker, Chiffchaff.

Mammals:  Rabbits, Moles.
Reptiles: 3 grass snakes.

VEG:
The scrub at the north end of the site contained {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. There was almost no ground flora under this due to shading and to  the population of rabbits in burrows under the scrub and over the whole area. Two large {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees at the NW corner.

There is a water-filled ditch on the western side which supports {\it Iris pseudocorus, Mentha aquatica, Carex rostrata}. The margin of the ditch and 3 to 4 metres into the field supports {\it Rubus fruticosus, Chamerion angustifolium, Dipsacus fullonum, Urtica dioica, Glechoma hederacea, Molinia caerulea, Achillea millefolium} and {\it Primula veris}.

The main grass area contains {\it Cirsium} ssp. {\it Ranunculus acris, Agrostis stolonifera, Poa annua, Rumex acetosella, Luzula campestris, Ranunculus ficaria, Potentilla anserina, Cerastium holostoides}. There is much {\it Glechoma hederacea} at the northern end.

To the SE a slightly raised area contains much {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Urtica dioica, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Arctium minus}.

Near the entrance (to the south) ruderal species such as {\it Digitalis purpurea, Urtica dioica, Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium} are found. The entrance is shaded by {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Rosa} sp.

MANAGE:
The area has been used for organized recreation and the remains of a clubhouse ( or at least a small building which had a door marked Visitors)
were found on the south side. It now appears to have occasional informal use, possibly for camping,cycling, dog walking.
This sporadic use may not affect wildlife much,the three grass snakes seen during survey would avoid disturbance. The site would be improved by full removal of the old building.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Bullfinch, Great-spotted woodpecker, Pheasant, Blackbird, Chiffchaff, Wood Pigeon, Crows.

The wood contains a large pheasant breeding area on the eastern side.

Mammals: Rabbit, Moles

VEG:
A well developed secondary woodland with large {\it Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior}. The understorey contained {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Malus sylvestris, Sambucus nigra}.

The ground flora at time of survey included {\it Rubus fruticosus, Mercuralis perennis, Rumex sp}., {\it Arum maculatum, Euphorbia amygdaloides, Lonicera periclymenum, Ranunculus ficaria, Urtica dioica, Hyacinthoides non-scripta}. The ground was wet even after the dry winter and contained much {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Molinia caerulea}.

Some trees had been felled and sawn for timber.
Some old large {\it Quercus robur} evident, for example, near the western corner.

MANAGE:
The woods to the North and East of Park Thorns are managed for timber. Park Thorns appears to be kept as a pheasant-breeding and hunting wood.

If managed for wildlife some thinning would enhance ground flora diversity and ponds might
widen overall species diversity.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Starling, Great tit, Pheasant, Lapwing, Mallard, Chaffinch, Magpie.

VEG:
Baulking Common consists of amenity grassland surrounding roads and tracks between the farmhouses that make up the settlement of Baulking. A number of ponds lie along the western side of the common.

The grassland includes species such as {\it Ranunculus ficaria, Ranunculus acris, Rumex acetosa, Bellis perennis, Lamium purpureum, Senecio vulgaris, Cerastium fontanum}.
The ponds contain much {\it Glyceria fluitans, Ranunculus flammula} some {\it Potamogeton polygonifolius, Lemna minor, Iris pseudocorus}.
The western edge of the common supports frequent scrub species such as {\it Prunus spinosa, Salix} sp. {\it Rubus fruticosus, Urtica dioica, Crataegus monogyna, Acer campestre, Sambucus nigra}.
The large field to the NE of the common is mown and edged by pollard willows.

MANAGE:
The pond is managed for amenity and access. The ponds vary in their wildlife interest, with some well suited for diverse habitats and some too steep-sided to encourage plant growth. There may be some eutrophication from field runoff or effluent from the sewage station to the west of the common.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Magpie, Greater Spotted Woodpecker, Jay, Chaffinch, Wren, Chiffchaff, Goldcrests.

Mammals: Moles, Rabbit.

VEG:
Horsepath Common forms part of the Shotover Country Park. This in turn is part of the Brasenose Wood and Shotover Park SSSI. Shotover Hill has relict heathland and unimproved acid grassland with other habitats that make it a prime entomological site for Diptera and Aculeates. 

Horspath Common is mostly woodland. An area to the west of the site is a mixed plantation of the 19th. century with {\it Quercus} sp. {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Ilex aquifolium, Pinus sylvestris, Larix decidua, Populus} sp. with some locally uncommon bryophytes {\it Cephalozia bicuspidata, Lepidozia reptans} in streams.                             
Much of the rest of the common is broad-leaved woodland of NVC W10 Oak woodland community. The SW corner has standards of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Acer campestris} as understorey. There are some large old coppiced {\it Corylus avellana} by the path. The ground flora includes much {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Glechoma hederacea, Stachys sylvestris, Urtica dioica, Rubus fruticosus, Rumex acetosa, Bryonia dioica}.

The path passes upslope past an area of {\it Ulmus} sp. and tree tubes containing {\it Prunus avium, Pinus sylvestris, Betula} sp. {\it Fagus sylvatica, Quercus robur} above a ground flora of predominantly {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus, Dactylis glomerata}.

The area was probably more open and scrub invasion may have occurred after myxamatosis. Small areas of close-cropped grass remain on the higher slopes which may have previously supported heath species. The grassland areas are bryophyte-rich with {\it Rumex acetosella, Galium saxatile, Luzula} sp.  Islands of {\it Ulex europaeus, Rubus fruticosus} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium} are found near and within the grass areas.

Some large {\it Quercus robur} are found scattered though the common and there is considerable 'natural' deadwood and abandoned logs for invertebrate habitat.

The common extends to the SW either side of the path to Open Brasenose which was once common land. The land either side of the path includes semi-improved grassland with {\it Lolium perenne}. A hedge runs alongside this that includes {\it Salix} sp. {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa} and many tall ruderal species.

MANAGE:
The Oxford City Countryside Service has a Management Plan for the Shotover Park area (including Horspath Common). This is to be revised shortly.
Some heather restoration is planned for the common on the more open upper slopes. The tree planting is monitored and maintained. Some recent felling of Scots Pine and other species has occurred. Nest boxes have been erected in the mixed plantation area. Some footpath erosion occurs and some temporary bare ground arose from gas pipe installation. The sleeper walkways by muddy ground are very effective. Chicken-wire stapled to the tops of them would be safer in wet weather.


FAUNA:
Birds seen:  Skylark, Chaffinch.                            
Moles.

VEG:
The common was only briefly surveyed but appeared to be of little botanical interest. The semi-improved grassland showed some poaching. The 
old pond supported {\it Glyceria fluitans} and appeared rather eutrophic.

The common is edged by thorn scrub of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Salix} sp.

MANAGE:
The common is managed for grazing and cultivation and some public amenity.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Starling, Magpie, Chaffinch, Wood pigeon, Moorhen, Mallard.

VEG:
The pond on the western side of the common has a small area of open water but is largely clogged with {\it Typha latifolia, Juncus} sp, and {\it Glyceria fluitans}.                           
The pond is edged with {\it Molinia caerulea, Urtica dioica, Galium saxatile, Rubus fruticosus, Viola} sp. and {\it Arum maculatum}. A few trees have been planted in tubes around the pond.There is some scrub near the pond with {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}.It is not known whether the sewage station near this point causes any local seepage of nutrients.

The western side of the common is quite wet and some hollows contain {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Juncus} sp. Hummocks of an old field pattern can be seen.

In the NW corner there is an old pond which  has become eutrophicated.   

There are areas of {\it Molinia caerulea} grassland in southern parts of the common. Also patches of {\it Urtica dioica} in disturbed areas.

MANAGE:
The large pond in the western corner looks as though it received some management perhaps 5 years ago but has not had much aftercare since. It is not known if the sewage station influences the area.
Signs saying 'Please do not drive across the Green' seem to be heeded but gravel tracks are slowly encroaching on the green at some points.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey:  Bullfinch, Great tit, Blackbird, Willow tit, Chaffinch.	
Mammals: Rabbits.

VEG:
The common is bound by tall hedge for most of its perimeter. This consists of {\it Sambucus nigra, Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Salix} sp., {\it Acer campestris}. There are some tall {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.

The ground flora consists of grasses such as {\it Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius}, and many patches of ruderal species such as {\it Urtica dioica, Chamerion angustifolium, Digitalis purpurea, Rumex} sp. Large patches of {\it Molinia caerulea}, sometimes with {\it Juncus effusus}, occurred at the NE end and wider central area of the common.

Other  species at the time of survey include {\it Cirsium palustre, Filipendula ulmaria, Glechoma hederacea, Arum maculatum, Sagina} sp.{\it Ranunculus ficaria, R. acris}.

Much of the track was very wet at the time of survey despite a relatively dry winter.

MANAGE:
The common is probably part of an ancient trackway from Fifield to Bruern Abbey. The bridgework over a stream at the lowest point of the common is well built. The wall by the wooden gate near to Fifield needs repair.
If managed for wildlife some grazing of the rank grass would enhance species diversity.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey:  Pheasant, Wren, Robin, Wood Pigeon, Red Kite, Willow tit, Coal tit, Blackbird, Magpie, Chaffinch, Long-tailed tit, Blue tit.

Mammals: Rabbit, Muntjac, old badger sett.

VEG:
The main area at the top of the slope is dominated by {\it Fagus sylvatica}, some coppiced, some standards. The understorey and ground flora is very poor in species with quite a lot of ground covered by beech leaves and mast alone.

Passing downslope on the western side of the Common one finds high {\it Fagus sylvatica} thinned with considerable deadwood. In gaps {\it Fraxinus excelsior} is regenerating with a ground flora of {\it Mercuralis perennis, Hedera helix, Oxalis acetosella, Rubus fruticosus}, and {\it Arum maculatum}. Some areas are windblown {\it Fagus sylvatica}.

The track passes through a deep cutting used by horses and vehicles. The sides support {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Ilex aquifolium, Sambucus nigra}, occasional {\it Taxus baccata}. The ground flora includes {\it Arrenatherum elatius, Rubus fruticosus, Rosa} sp., {\it Mercuralis perennis, Viola} sp., {\it Clematis vitalba}. There are some large {\it Fagus sylvatica} with exposed roots on the sides of the cutting.

The bottom of the slope supports a more diverse woodland with similarly aged {\it Ilex aquifolium, Prunus avium, Fraxinus excelsior, Taxus baccata, Acer pseudoplatanus} with much fallen deadwood. An old badger sett is found in this area.

The path on the NE facing side contains a similar range of tree species with more {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa}. More mature trees, including {\it Quercus robur} appear upslope with coppiced {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Corylus avellana}.

A more open area opposite Pickett's Bill has a ground flora that includes {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Arum maculatum} with invading {\it Fagus sylvatica}.

MANAGE:
Re-coppicing Beech would encourage a far greater species diversity. The gaps thus opened up would enhance the amenity use of the area by providing wide views over the Thame valley.
Some rubbish is found along the path on the NE facing side and should be removed.


FAUNA:
Birds: Chaffinch, Crow, Blue Tit, Pheasant, Yellowhammer.
Butterflies: Brimstone, Meadow Brown.	
Mammals: Rabbits.

VEG:
The grazed sward of {\it Lolium perenne, Agrostis} sp., {\it Phleum pratense, Holcus lanatus, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Cynosurus cristatus} is surrounded by hedge trees including {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra}. These species also form a boundary to the playing field area which also includes {\it Populus x canadensis} (Railway poplar) and {\it Ulmus} sp.

Other species found include: {\it Ranunculus ficaria, Rubus fruticosus, Geum urbanum, Rosa canina} agg. {\it Circaea lutetiana, Mercurialis perennis, Hedera helix, Glechoma hederacea, Veronica chamaedrys, Trifolium repens, Lapsana communis, Arum maculatum, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Capsella bursa-pastoris, Galium verum, Tripleurospermum maritimum, Cirsium vulgare, Artemisia vulgaris} and {\it Primula veris}.                              

The small section on the northern side of the minor road contains large areas of {\it Dactylis glomerata} with {\it Urtica dioica}. The planted trees (about 250) are {\it Acer campestre, Corylus avellana, Fraxinus excelsior, Prunus avium, Fagus sylvatica}. Amongst the ground flora here are {\it Bryonia dioica, Galium mollugo, Linaria sp.} and  {\it Artemisia vulgaris}.

MANAGE:
Trees have been planted in tubes on the small section of the common that is to the north of the minor road. The plant diversity would be improved by reduction in any fertilizers applied to the main field.


FAUNA:
Birds: Seen during survey - Wood pigeon, Chaffinch, Great tit, Magpie.

Mammals: Moles.

VEG:
The main area is grass with some areas by houses mown. The sward includes {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Plantago lanceolata, Taraxacorum officinale, Hypochaeris radicata, Cerastium holostoides, Arum maculatum, Urtica dioica, Ranunculus ficaria, Ranunculus acris} and
{\it Rumex} sp.

There are many planted trees on the common. Along the road (B481) {\it Tilia europaeus} thrives with some {\it Ilex aquifolium, Sambucus nigra}. The northern edge of the common has a line of {\it Pinus sylvestris}. Other areas have {\it Aesculus hippocastanum, Acer pseudoplatanus, Quercus} sp.

The northwestern point of the Common has some scrub with {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Sambucus nigra, Ilex aquifolium}. The eastern end has a small area that is treated as garden with planted garden shrubs and snowdrops.

MANAGE:
The Cookley Green common (called The Green) seems well kept. A pond, if practical and well-maintained, would add a focus of interest.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Red Kite, Blackbird, Redwings.

Mammals: Rabbit, deer.

VEG:
The scrub that has developed around the site includes {\it Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra, Acer pseudoplatanus, Rosa} agg. and {\it Salix} sp. Specimens of {\it Juniperus communis} evident. Patches of {\it Urtica dioica} present.
Rabbit grazing is producing a close cropped, bryophyte rich sward in places though capping material still dominant visually at time of survey.

MANAGE:
The paths through the scrub are being trimmed back by BBONT and National Trust work parties  (and a local resident at the time of survey).
Some of the landfill rubbish was still evident in one or two places, not fully covered by the capping layer. The Juniper is of great interest and is being monitored. Scrub invasion might imperil the juniper and potential diversity of the site.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey:
Great tit, Long-tailed tit, Pheasant, Jay, Blackbird, Great spotted woodpecker, Rookery.
Birds also previously recorded: Marsh tit, Robin, Wren, Nuthatch.

Mammals seen during survey: Muntjac, rabbits.

VEG:
The common is almost circular following minor roads from near Greys Court Farm via Greys Green and Shepherd's Green to Lane End House.

Proceeding clockwise from near Greys Court Farm where the tarred road is bounded on both sides by {\it Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Corylus avellana}. On roadside some {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Urtica dioica, Arum maculatum, Mercuralis perennis, Glechoma hederacea, Galium odoratum}.

Further along there are tall {\it Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior, Prunus avium, Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Pinus sylvestris} with an understorey of {\it Sambucus nigra} and ground flora of {\it Ranunculus ficaria, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Arum maculatum, Mercuralis perennis}.                              

Near the road junction there is some scrub {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Salix} sp. and some planted {\it Fraxinus} and {\it Prunus} in tubes. The triangle of grass at the junction has a large {\it Aesculus hippocastanum}.

The Common Land widens out near the village with some high {\it Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} with an understorey of {\it Ilex aquifolium, Prunus avium, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Prunus spinosa}. There is much deadwood with good bryophyte growth (e.g. {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}).

At Greys Green the roadside has lines of {\it Prunus avium} and {\it Quercus robur} on a mown sward. This widens into the village green with some isolated {\it Prunus avium} and {\it Fagus sylvatica}.

A wooded area is found either side of the road west of Greys Green Farm. The northern section has high {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}. Some of the ground and tree trunks are covered with {\it Hedera helix} and the ground flora includes {\it Ranunculus ficaria, Arum maculatum, Urtica dioica, Galanthus nivalis, Dryopteris dilitata, Lonicera periclymenum, Melica uniflora, Dryopteris filix-mas, Galium aparine, Sorbus aria, Aegopodium podagraria, Clematis vitalba, Lamiastrum galeobdolon} and cultivated Dafodils. There are patches of {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and areas of deadwood with planted broadleaf trees in tubes. 

The wood on the other side of the road has tall {\it Quercus robur} with {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Prunus avium} with new planting in tree tubes.

The green at Shepherd's Green has a small wooded area at its west end.

MANAGE:
Some tree-planting has been done. Some rubbish in woods needs clearance.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey:  Magpie, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Wood pigeon, Pheasant, Collared Dove, Moorhen, Great Tit, Blue tit, Treecreeper.                            

Mammals: Fallow deer recorded.

Pishill Bank: 10 common snail species recorded including {\it Discus rotundatus,  Oxychilus helveticus} and {\it Cochlodina laminata}.
Two slug species - {\it Limax cinereoniger} and {\it Deroceras reticulatum} are recorded.

The SSSI citation for Pishill Woods remarks on the importance of deadwood habitats within the SSSI as shown by the presence of {\it Strangalia maculata} (Longhorn beetle), two woodland hoverflies, {\it Xylota sylvarum} and {\it Cheilosia variabilis} and the nationally uncommon hoverfly {\it Volucella inflata}.

VEG:
The northern section of the Common is Pishill Bank which is part of the Pishill Woods SSSI.
There is a mixture of both acid and basic soil conditions here which contributes to the range of stand types. The acidic soils of the top of the Bank are dominated by {\it Quercus robur} with {\it Betula pendula, Corylus avellana, Lonicera periclymenum}, with {\it Calluna vulgaris, Deschampsia flexuosa, Luzula pilosa} in the ground flora. 

Coppiced {\it Fagus sylvatica} becomes more evident downslope with {\it Sorbus aria, Prunus avium} and {\it Malus sylvestris}. The deeper soils at the bottom of the slope allow coppiced {\it Fagus, Corylus} and {\it Acer campestre} to thrive together with {\it Taxus baccata, Ilex aquifolium, Crataegus monogyna, Viburnum opulus}. The ground flora here contains the locally uncommon {\it Hordelymus europaeus, Ranunculus auricomus} and {\it Orchis mascula}.
Seven bryophytes are recorded for the site including {\it Buxbaumia aphylla}. This is recorded as 'Notable'. E.V.Watson in Mosses and Liverworts (1955) records this species as 'very rare in Britain and occurs sporadically, chiefly on woodland banks, among other mosses......it is to a great extent saprophytic....'                              

The grassland that stretches across the plateau of the common is improved grassland for grazing and silage. This was ploughed during World War II and is now fertilized and treated sewage applied.At the time of survey only 11 sheep were grazing.

South of Russell's Water there is an area of relict heath that is now invaded by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scrub woodland of {\it Betula pendula, Quercus robur, Ulex europaeus, Corylus avellana, Salix} sp. and some {\it Calluna vulgaris}  patches by paths. The paths are well-used by walkers and cyclists.

The southern edge of the Common is bounded by high scrub of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium and Salix} sp. with {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus, Sambucus nigra, Prunus spinosa} and occasional standards of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.

Near the eastern end of the Common lies further scrub woodland with some {\it Quercus, Fraxinus} and {\it Fagus} standards. There is also an area of 40 or so planted broadleaf trees in tubes and a small shaded pond.

The northern edge of the Common, SE of Nuttall's Farm lies an area thought to be medieval beech coppice with some {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra} and a ground flora (at time of survey) of {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Arum maculatum, Rubus fruticosus} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. The northern end of this area has more {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula}. There is much deadwood throughout this area.

MANAGE:
BBONT (through the Wardens at the nearby Warburg Reserve) is attempting to view the sections of important woodland in the area (including CL96-Maidensgrove Scrubs) as a complex of historically linked ancient semi-natural woodlands and beech coppice.

Longterm aims include restoration of the coppice and associated ground flora. Currently much of the ground flora is thought to be lost to muntjac deer.

The wildlife potential of the improved grassland would itself be improved by  the minimization of fertilizer use.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Treecreeper, Great tit,
Chaffinch, Wood pigeon, Blackbird.

Mammals: Rabbit.

VEG:
The main area of this common is High Beech wood including several quite old specimens. There are patches of {\it Ilex aquifolium} understorey and a few struggling {\it Quercus robur} specimens.
The northern corner has some young {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Corylus avellana} with {\it Crataegus monogyna} and quite large {\it Betula} sp., {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}.

The eastern end of the site is more {\it Quercus} dominated with some large {\it Prunus avium}. The ground flora at the time of survey showed much {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta}.

There has been occasional small-scale wood extraction from the site.

MANAGE:
Some thinning of the Beech wood would allow for more species diversity as there is no shortage of continuous beech wood in the area.
Some garden rubbish is dumped on the northern side.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Blackbird, Moorhen, Coot, Chaffinch.                            
Recorded: Grass snake, Frogs, Toads, Newts, Mallard, Water Rail, Heron.
Reed Warblers.

VEG:
College Pond on Wolvercote Green contains {\it Typha latifolia, Carex rostrata, Glyceria maxima, Carex riparia, Sparganium} sp. {\it Epilobium hirsutum}, Scutellaria gelericulata, Juncus} spp. {\it Polygonum amphibium, Filipendula ulmaria, Mentha aquatica, Lythrum salicaria} with trees and scrub around the pond that includes {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus, Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna} with {\it Salix} pollards.                              

A drain leads from the pond to the south and contains {\it Phragmites australis, Epilobium hirsutum}. There is a playground area, an area of {\it Salix} scrub on the western side. Much of the remaining land is rough grass with clumps of {\it Symphytum officinale} and wetter areas that support {\it Iris pseudocorus, Filipendula ulmaria, Myosotis} sp.

The grass (uncut at time of survey) contains {\it Taraxacum} sp. {\it Leucanthemum vulgare, Filipendula ulmaria, Primula veris, Ranunculus acris, Plantago lanceolata, Cirsium} sp. {\it Hypochoeris radicata, Veronica chamaedrys, Lotus corniculatus, Carex flacca, Agrostis stolonifera, Alopecurus pratensis}.

A list of 62 species for the N. end of Wolvercote Green was prepared in 1985  and this includes {\it Galium verum, Achillea ptarmica, Senecio erucifolius, Rumex hydrolapathum, Geranium dissectum}.

The area to the north of Godstow Road, called Goose Green, is a rectangular stretch of grassland with a wide ditch to the western side. The southern edge has thorn and ash scrub with tree-tube protected trees such as {\it Quercus} sp., {\it Fagus sylvatica}, and {\it Prunus}. A patch of {\it Fallopia japonica} is found near to where a path enters the common. The main grass area supports {\it Holcus lanatus, Dactylis glomerata, Cynosurus cristatus, Artemesia vulgaris, Ranunculus} sp. {\it Plantago lanceolata, Anthriscus sylvestris, Achillea millefolium, Juncus inflexus}. The sides of the grassland are planted with conifers, {\it Quercus} sp. and, near the pond, {\it Taxus baccata} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. 
The northern end of Goose Green has two rather overgrown ponds. There are also patches of {\it Fallopia japonica} and {\it Rubus fruticosus}. The Oxford Biological Records Centre has a species list of 72 species for Goose Green with no particularly unusual species found.

MANAGE:
The College Pond area has been and is the subject of restoration and management for wildlife. At least 8 conservation organizations involved as well as local residents. The tree planting on Goose Green appears successful
though the ponds to the North end of Goose Green could be cleared to prevent a monoculture of {\it Glyceria maxima}(?) prevailing. Some dumping of rubbish was noted at the NE corner.


FAUNA:
From Records: Most supplied by Oxford Biological Records Centre.

Birds Recorded:  Chaffinch, Curlew, Great Tit, House Martin, Lapwing, Linnet, Mallard, Moorhen, Redshank, Red-legged Partridge, Reed Bunting,  Yellowhammer, Rook, Skylark, Starling, Swift, Willow warbler, Woodpigeon, Dunlin, Ruff, Canada Goose.

Mammals:  Mole, Rabbit

Mollusca:  {\it Columella edentula, Vertigo pygmaea, Vertigo antivertigo, Anisus vorticulus}.

Odonata:   {\it Agrion splendens, Lestes sponsa, Gomphus vulgatissimus} (Notable species), {\it Enallagma cyathigerum, Platycnemis pennipes} (Notable species) {\it Cordulia aenea} (Downy Emerald). {\it Calopteryx splendens}  (Banded damoiselle).	

Arachnida: {\it Allomengea vidua}.  (Pixey Mead) {\it Walckenaeria vigilax. Leptorhoptrum robustum, Porhomma micropthalmum, Microlinyphia impigra} (Yarnton Mead)
		   
Oct 92 Invertebrate Records by S. Grove record 103 species including:
{\it Platycnemis pennipes} (White-legged damselfly) Notable species
{\it Gomphus vulgatissimus} (A Hawker dragonfly)  Notable species
{\it Ctenicera pectinicornis} (A Click beetle) Notable species
{\it Phytoecia cylindrica}
{\it Acinia corniculata}  (RDB1)
			
Lepidoptera: {\it Maniola jurtina} (Meadow Brown), {\it Coenonympha pamphilus} (Small Heath), {\it Aglais urticae} (Small tortoiseshell), {\it Artogeia rapae} (Small White), {\it Melanargia galathea} (Marbled White),{\it Aphantopus hyperantus} (Ringlet), {\it Zygaena trifolii} (5-spot burnet).

VEG:
Pixey and Yarnton Meads are species rich neutral grasslands.Yarnton Mead is sometimes referred to in records as West Mead. In NVC terms they are mostly MG4.

The section southeast of the Oxford Ring road has {\it Leucanthemum vulgare, Stachys officinalis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Rumex acetosa, Taraxacorum subundulatum, Taraxacorum fulgidum, Lotus corniculatus, Sanguisorba officinalis, Ajuga reptans, Vicia} sp., {\it Trifolium pratense, Alopecurus pratensis, Senecio vulgaris, Cerastium holostoides, Conopodium majus, Festuca rubra, Bellis perennis, Plantago lanceolata, Caltha palustris, Mentha aquatica, Holcus lanatus, Primula veris, Filipendula ulmaria, Phragmites australis, Rhinanthus minor, Lathyrus pratensis, Carex flacca, Dactylorhiza fuchsii}.

A small flush on the eastern side of this section has {\it Valeriana dioica, Equisetum} sp., {\it Ajuga reptans, Mentha aquatica}. The southern end of this area has rank vegetation of {\it Phragmites australis, Urtica dioica, Iris pseudocorus, Caltha palustris, Filipendula ulmaria, Symphytum officinale}.

The section north of the ring road is a more constant grassland and contains further to the grassland species of the above, {\it Orchis morio, Colchium autumnale, Serratula tintoria, Silaum silaus, Ranunculus bulbosus} and {\it Ophioglossum vulgatum}. The (drier) northern end has substantial {\it Ranunculus bulbosus}.

MANAGE:
Pixey and Yarnton Meads have been cut annually for hay and aftermath (or back-end) grazing and thus provides an almost unique site for studying the effects of cutting compared to grazing. Yarnton is a more uniform site in terms of grassland communities compared to Pixey Mead or North Meadow, Cricklade (Gloucestershire).

Grazing has changed from sheep to cattle in recent years which is preferable from the wildlife point-of-view.

The site was once used for harvesting wild flower seed but this has been curtailed. Land is subject to an English Nature management agreement.

An article by Peter Marren entitled Harvests of Beauty; The Conservation of Hay Meadows (British Wildlife Vol. 6 No. 4 April 1995) introduces some historical and current issues about this and similar sites.


FAUNA:
Birds: Seen during survey: Robin, Great-spotted
Woodpecker, Great tit, Blue Tit, Wood Pigeon, Nuthatch, Buzzard, Pheasant, Magpie, Coal Tit, Jay, Thrush.

Recorded species include: Tawny Owl, Woodcock, Willow warbler, Chiffchaff, Nightjar, Stone curlew, Tree pipit.                            

Mammals recorded: Fallow deer, Muntjac, Grey squirrel, Badgers, Fox, Stoat, Weasel, Dormouse, Harvest Mouse, Rabbits, Hare.

Reptiles: Adder, Common lizard, Grass snake, Slow worms.

Butterflies:  {\it Limenitis camilla} (White admiral), {\it Quercusia quercus} (Purple hairstreak),{\it Strymonidia w-album} (White-letter Hairstreak),{\it Thymelicus flavus} (Small skipper), {\it Ochlodes venatus} (Large skipper), {\it Thymelicus lineola} (Essex skipper), {\it Argynnis paphia} (Silver-washed Fritillary),{\it Coenonympha pamphilus} (Small Heath),{\it Lycaena phlaeas} (Small copper),{\it Maniola jurtina} (Meadow Brown),{\it Polyommatus icarus} (Common Blue), {\it Pararge aegaria} (Speckled Wood).{\it Inachis io} (Peacock), {\it Apatura iris} (Purple Emperor).

Records exist of : 4 species of Woodlouse, 5 of Centipede, 5 of Millipede, 5 of slugs (including {\it Limax tenellus} a notable species) and over 130 species of invertebrates (including {\it Chalcoides nitidula} and {\it Phytodecta decemnotata} - notable species of leaf beetle).

VEG:
Description of vegetation of CL50 proceeds North to South from Nettlebed Common Woods near Priest's Hill to Rotherfield Peppard.                              

Just North of Priests's Hill an area of neutral grassland supports {\it Dactylis glomerata, Deschampsia flexuosa, Luzula campestris, Holcus lanatus, Stellaria graminea, Rumex acetosella, Phleum pratense, Arrenatherum elatius, Taraxacorum officinale, Hypochaeris radicata, Ranunculus acris}, and is bounded by intermittent {\it Crataegus monogyna, Populus tremula, Quercus robur} and {\it Prunus spinosa}. The field is fringed by dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. A path across the field has been blocked off on either side.This area is mown.

Immediately North of this a plantation of {\it Larix decidua} with an understorey of {\it Fagus sylvatica} with {\it Sambucus nigra} and a ground flora dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. 

Across the B481 the Common land runs along the northern boundary of Nettlebed Common Wood. This is Fagus-Quercus woodland including a long line of {\it Fagus sylvatica} along an old bank. The bank itself supports good bryophyte growth - mostly {\it Mnium hornum} with {\it Hypnum mammilatum}. A more open grass/bracken area with a few trees and oddly pollarded Quercus and Betula is probably all that remains of former vegetation of this area.

Nettlebed Common supports a {\it Fagus sylvatica - Quercus robur} woodland with some {\it Prunus avium}.  In some places the stand is pure high beech. The understorey is usually of {\it Corylus avellana} or {\it Ilex aquifolium} with a ground flora (at the time of survey) of {\it Rubus fruticosus, Hyacinthoides non-scripta}.
Near 'Magpies' an area of dry heath includes {\it Calluna vulgaris, Galium saxatile, Deschampsia flexuosa} fringed by many {\it Pinus sylvestris} trees. Some {\it Fagus sylvatica} around this area are pollarded so as not to overshade the heath. An old pond nearby has been cleared to encourage restoration.

To the North of the Recreation ground an area of 'dells' contains some ponds which are often overshaded but contain {\it Glyceria fluitans, Ranunculus flammula, Potamogeton} sp. and some contain {\it Sphagnum fimbriatum}. The trees in this area include many {\it Pinus sylvestris} and some large {\it Quercus robur}. The large pond to the south of the ground is more open. The edge of the pond supports {\it Salix} sp., {\it Quercus robur, Taxus baccata} and {\it Sarothamnus scoparia} and {\it Ranunculus flammula} whilst the pond itself has substantial {\it Potamageton} sp.and {\it Nymphea alba}. 

The Priest's Hill area is dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with {\it Ulex europaeus} and a few {\it Calluna vulgaris} patches. Trees here include {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus robur}. The area is an SSSI for the Pleistocene stratigraphy that includes unique exposures of organic silts.

South of Nettlebed but still north of the A423 lies an area of regenerating woodland that includes {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Quercus robur, Betula pendula}, an understorey of {\it Sambucus nigra, Ilex aquifolium, Prunus spinosa} and a ground flora of {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Arum maculatum, Glechoma hederacea, Urtica dioica, Lonicera periclymenum, Pteridium aquilinum}. This extends towards 'Catslip' with an increasing proportion of {\it Fagus sylvatica} including one or two quite old specimens. There are occasional {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} and some {\it Prunus laurocerasus}.

South of the A423 one enters an area of ancient woodland with a few examples of old beech coppice and pollards. Wood-pasture was probably practised in this area. {\it Quercus robur} is more evident in the northernmost part of this area in the angle between the A423 and the B481, but for most of the rest of Lowercommon Wood, Oxlands Bottom, Highmoor Common Wood and Highmoor Common Beech is the dominant tree. In the centre of this area one finds a plantation of {\it Larix decidua} of approx 5 Ha.and another smaller plantation at Oxlands Bottom. Highmoor trench is {\it Quercus robur, Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Corylus avellana} coppice with some Conifer,{\it Carpinus betulus} and {\it Populus tremula}.

The understorey of the area contains much young {\it Fagus sylvatica} as well as {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Fraxinus excelsior, Sambucus nigra, Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Betula pendula}. The ground flora contains {\it Rubus fruticosus, Pteridium aquilinum, Urtica dioica, Holcus mollis, Rubus idaeus, Milium effusum, Carex remota}.

Generally speaking the ground flora of this area is species-poor however there are some records from the 1980's of {\it Epipactis purpurata, Iris foetidissima, Viburnum opulus, Hypericum androsaemum, Neottia nidus-avis} and {\it Calluna vulgaris. Impatiens parviflora} was found on the main ride through Oxlands Bottom during this survey. 

Two very small areas within CL38 lie along the B481. Highmoor Pond had recently been dug out and contained few species at the time of survey except some {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} round the edge. A small triangle at Highmoor Cross is grassland with some planted trees.

Witheridge Hill Common is largely young Broad-leaved woodland with some dense scrub. To the NW an area of scrub contains {\it Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior, Sambucus nigra} and planted {\it Prunus avium}. Ground flora in this area includes {\it Arum maculatum, Anthriscus sylvestris, Fragaria vesca, Hedera helix, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Mercuralis perennis, Rubus idaeus, Convallaria majalis}. Moving uphill from this area a mixed woodland exists with {\it Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium, Fagus sylvatica, Quercus robur}. {\it Pteridium aquilinum} has become dominant under power lines.
A 'village green' in the village of Witheridge Hill has some planted {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fagus sylvatica}  with some {\it Buddleja} sp.

Passing south back down the hill there is a more open area that has been invaded by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and has substantial planted {\it Aesculus hippocastanum, Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior}.  The centre of the Common has Oak woodland with {\it Ilex aquifolium} and some {\it Taxus baccata}.

Further downslope the woodland is unthinned Beech with bryophytes such as {\it Mnium hornum, Polythrichum} sp. and {\it Hypnum mammilatum} on the earth bank that forms the Common boundary. Across the road to the SW of the Common lies the Bear,Oveys and Great Bottom Wood SSSI.
The map marks an old chalk pit near the spot height 344, another large hollow, with considerable rubbish infill exists near the southernmost point of this section of the Common.

Kingwood Common was a large heathland which is now dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and invasive tree species - {\it Betula pendula}  with {\it Populus tremula, Quercus robur and Prunus avium}. The ground flora includes {\it Ulex europaeus, Rubus fruticosus} and {\it Rubus idaeus}. {\it Ulex minor} has been recorded though not seen recently. Also recorded are {\it Epipactis purpurata, Hypericum pulchrum, Carex pilulifera, Stachys officinalis} and {\it Luzula multiflora} and over 280 other common species. 

Near Barn Farm a road salt dump exists which must affect the local vegetation. Species found near the edge include {\it Lamium purpurum, Tussilago farfara, Senecio vulgaris, Alchemilla} sp., {\it Cardamine hirsuta, Veronica} sp. {\it Arctium minus, Geranium robertianum}.

The northern section has several patches of {\it Calluna vulgaris} with {\it Ulex europaeus}. The bank next to the small that leads N from Great David's Lodge has {\it Euphorbia amygdaloides} with good bryophyte species such as {\it Dicranum majus, Hypnum mammilatum}.

The area to the south that includes Kingwood Well has some {\it Calluna vulgaris} with {\it Luzula campestris}. As with much of the rest of Kingwood Common the area is undergoing succession to woodland with much {\it Betula pendula} and some {\it Salix} sp., {\it Quercus petraea, Crataegus monogyna}. The ground flora includes {\it Rumex acetosella} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum} but is dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

Peppard Common, the most southern section of CL38, has a wide variety of habitats from acid/neutral grassland to acid heath, scrub and woodland.

The flat grasslands of the eastern part of Peppard Common support {\it Holcus lanatus, Galium verum, Galium saxatile, Achillea millifolium, Deschampsia flexuosa, Plantago lanceolata, Hypochaeris radicata, Urtica dioica, Campanula rotundifolia, Rumex acetosella, Dactylis glomerata, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Arrenatherum elatius} and {\it Lolium perenne}. Some {\it Prunus avium} trees have been planted at the NE corner.

The sides of the valley leading down to Peppard Bottom have mixed woodland that includes {\it Fraxinus excelsior,  Quercus robur, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Prunus avium} standards with understorey trees of {\it Ligustrum vulgare, Ilex aquifolium, Corylus avellana, Acer campestre, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa}. The ground flora includes {\it Fragaria vesca, Geum urbanum, Melica uniflora, Anthriscus sylvestris, Potentilla sterilis, Silene vulgaris, Euphorbia amygdaloides, Daphne laureola, Clematis vitalba}.

The valley floor contains extensive stands of {\it Prunus spinosa} with pockets of acid grassland. These support {\it Galium verum, Centaurea nigra, Achillea millefolium, Stellaria graminea, Plantago lanceolata, Trifolium pratense, Stachys sylvatica, Holcus lanatus, Arrenatherum elatius, Phleum pratense, Agrimonia eupatoria, Dactylis glomerata, Deschampsia flexuosa, Calystegia sepium}.  

Other areas contain much {\it Rumex acetosella, Cerastium holostoides and Hypochoeris radicata}.

A grassy slope fringed by invading {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and containing much {\it Centaurea nigra, Campanula rotundifolia, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Stellaria graminea} leads up to an area to the south west of Peppard Common which has quite a large heath area of {\it Calluna vulgaris} mixed with {\it Ulex europaeus, Ulex minor, Rumex acetosella, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Galium saxatile}. This is fringed by scrub and woodland which extends as far (apart from roadside grass verge) as the road that passes along the SW facing side of the Common.
Peppard Common also has records for {\it Danthonia decumbens, Luzula multiflora} and {\it Polystichum aculeatum}.

MANAGE:
The Nettlebed Commons are managed as a partnership between the Nettlebed and District Commons Conservators and the Berkshire,Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Naturalists Trust (BBONT). A Management Plan has been written by BBONT for the period 1995-2005. A substantial proportion of the land is managed under a Countryside Stewardship agreement with the Countryside Commission. Other areas are managed by the Nettlebed Estate for timber. Some of the ponds on Nettlebed Common are to be part of a Heritage Ponds Project.
The Oxford Invertebrates Group performs research and advises on management.
The Chiltern Society, in partnership with the Commons Conservators and  local volunteers has taken on management of the Highmoor Pond.

The natural succession of most of the vegetation in this area would be towards woodland. To maintain diversity for wildlife and human enjoyment   
this succession has to be controlled so that the pre-existing heathland can survive as well the grassland areas and ponds. In the past ad hoc conservation tasks have been undertaken without which some of the heathland areas may not have survived. The current Management Plan represents the modern requirement to look at the area as a whole. If successful the Plan and the partnership it represents could be a model for future work in other areas.

The management objectives are best quoted from the Management Plan.

"....the main aim is to maintain a mosaic of woodland, heathland,grassland, wetland and ponds in order to safeguard all notable species of flora and fauna found on the Commons."

The ideal management objectives are:

1  Maintain heathland areas.
2  Maintain wet habitats: marsh and ponds.
3  Maintain grassland areas.
4  Maintain ancient woodland by non-intervention.
5  Recreate coppice areas and carry out a coppice cycle.
6  Maintain designated areas of secondary woodland: some by non-intervention                 
   and others with rides and glades.	  	
7  Safeguard all notable and typical species.
8  Provide access to and promote enjoyment of the Commons by the public.
9  Encourage the use of the Commons for educational and research activities.
10 Meet all legal and other obligations.

The Nettlebed Commons are apparently under-researched from the archaeological point of view. With Grim's Ditch passing through the site, Highmoor Trench and the industrial history of the brick-making industry the area may yield high archaeological interest.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey:  Chaffinch, Dunnock,
Canada Geese.

VEG:
Main grass area contains: {\it Fritillaria meleagris, Primula veris, Ranunculus ficaria, Taraxacum officinale, Plantago lanceolata, Agrostis stolonifera, Leontodon autumnalis, Poa annua, Ranunculus acris, Iris pseudocorus}.

To the South and West the Common is edged by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} and also some pollarded willows with large {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.

MANAGE:
A ditch on the south side of the Common may be eutrophic from runoff from adjacent fields and hence patches of Urtica dioica. Possible damage from Geese by river.


FAUNA:
Birds recorded: Chiffchaff, Blackbird, Pheasant, Yellowhammer, Robin, Blackcap, Chaffinch, Dunnock, Song thrush, Blue tit, Long-tailed tit,
Hobby, Redpoll, Garden Warbler, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Carrion Crow, Rook, Jackdaw, Magpie, Jay, Marsh tit, Wren, Goldcrest, Kestrel, Sedge Warbler. Tree pipit, Lesser Whitethroat.

Mammals: Mole, Fallow deer, Rabbit.

Numerous records exist for Hemiptera e.g.
{\it Himacerus apterus} (Tree damsel bug). {\it Notostira elongata, Rhopalus subrufus, Elasmostethus interstinctus, Nabis ferus, Nabicula limbata, Dicyphus stachydis}. No notable or Red Data Book species recorded.

Records exist for 4 common snails, 7 common Ladybird species.

VEG:
The site was once heathland which is now a rare habitat in Oxfordshire. It has become heavily invaded by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scrub woodland.

The central area is dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with occasional {\it Quercus robur, Crataegus monogyna} with {\it Rubus fruticosus}. Near the centre of the site a small stand of pure {\it Quercus robur} exists near a shaded small pond. {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} is found in some areas.

The site is edged by an advanced invasion of scrub. Towards the northern end this is largely {\it Prunus spinosa} whilst to the east {\it Sambucus nigra} is more in evidence. The southern edge is {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} woodland with {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Sambucus nigra} as understorey trees.                               

Over 70 plant species are recorded including {\it Acer campestre, Arum maculatum, Euonymus europaeus, Festuca gigantea, Glechoma hederacea, Viburnum lantana} and {\it Dryopteris filix-mas}. Ten bryophytes species are recorded including {\it Atrichum undulatum, Dicranoweisia cirrata, Fissidens exilis}.

Two liverworts are recorded: {\it Metzgeria furcata} and a leafy liverwort {\it Plagiochila asplenoides}.

MANAGE:
Tackley Heath presents a good opportunity for restoration of the former heathland habitat. The site should be assessed together with CL65 - Tackley Heath Pond. A locally inititiated project with realistic planning for the large amount of work involved and suitable after-care of the restoration would have the best chance of success.

Some work has been done at Tackley Heath pond and this looks healthier, with more open water than during a BBONT survey of 1986.

Some metal rubbish has been dumped in the south-west corner of Tackley Heath.
Some scrub has been cut back under power lines which cross the site.


FAUNA:
Birds seen: Chaffinch, Magpie, Wood pigeon.

VEG:
This common is all small patches of mown grassland with occasional amenity trees and of little botanical interest.


VEG:
The common consists of at least a dozen small portions of land around the village of West Hannay. They are mostly roadside verges, with one small central area that approxiamates to a 'village green' and the southernmost area which is a triangle of amenity grassland and planted trees.
The planted trees include {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus, Quercus robur, Aesculus hippocastanum}.
A very small area of scrub exists on the northernmost section with {\it Sambucus nigra, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Urtica dioica}.

Some amenity planting of dafodils at many points.

MANAGE:
A wider variety of amenity trees could be included at some points.


FAUNA:
Birds: 37 species recorded including:              	Kestrel, Pheasant, Lapwing, Woodpigeon, Collared dove, Turtle dove, Cuckoo, Tawny Owl, Wren,
Dunnock, Robin, Blackbird, Whitethroat, Garden Warbler, Blackcap, Chiffchaff, Willow warbler, Goldcrest, Long-tailed tit, Marsh tit, Blue tit, Jackdaw, Starling, Chaffinch, Linnet, Yellowhammer.

Mammals:  Mole, Rabbit, Brown Hare, Bank vole, Fallow deer.

Reptiles: Viviparous Lizard.

Lepidoptera:  144 moths.
			  14 butterflies: Red admiral, Orange tip, Small white, Green-veined White, Brimstone, Large white, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Marbled white, Speckled wood, Small copper, Common blue

Coleoptera: 10 beetles.

Hemiptera:  31 bugs including Drymus latus -notable species.

VEG:
Over 200 plants are recorded from Westwell Gorse including 16 bryophyte and 27 lichen species. Of particular interest are {\it Carex filiformis} (Downy-fruited sedge) and {\it Thamnobryum alopecurum} (a moss) which are Red Data book species. Other species of note are:  {\it Astragalus danicus} (Purple Milk-vetch) {\it Galium cruciata,  Helianthemum nummalarium, Filipendula vulgaris, Anacamptis pyramidalis, Carlina vulgaris, Hippocrepis comosa, Primula veris}, and {\it Scabiosa columbaria}.                              

The Site has an area (less than 1Ha) of unimproved calcareous grassland on the side that faces the A433. Most of the above species of note grow in this area. The management plan suggests that this is CG4 or CG5 in the NVC clasification.

Scrub and woodland has developed over the rest of site which has not been managed since the middle of the 18th century when it was used for growing gorse for fuel.The scrub consists of {\it Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna},and {\it Prunus spinosa} with {\it Viburnum lantana} and occasional {\it Ligustrum vulgare}.The ground flora under the scrub includes large patches of {\it Mercuralis perennis, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Arum maculatum, Urtica dioica} and {\it Glechoma hederacea. Ulex europaeus} thrives despite the base-rich conditions.

Some suckers of {\it Ulmus procera} have re-established towards the NE side where there was once (prior to Dutch-elm disease) an elm wood. A plantation of  Acer pseudoplatanus is to be found near the access track on the eastern side. Other standard trees include some large {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.

Much planting has occurred in recent years on the west side of the site with {\it Acer campestre, Fraxinus excelsior, Prunus avium} in tubes.

A strong layer of the moss {\it Eurynchium praelongum} is present under the scrub.

MANAGE:
A management plan has been drawn up by BBONT.
A programme of scrub clearance and wall maintainance, with cutting of grassland continued during the 1980's until 1993.  Monitoring of the populations of {\it Carex filiformis} and {\it Astragalus danicus} has continued since 1988.  

The current prescription contains two objectives:

1  'To maintain the area of semi-natural limestone grassland and the diversity of characteristic species, rare and common, presently occurring on that grassland'  by  mowing the grassland, clearing scrub and monitoring {\it C.filiformis} and {\it A. danicus}.
  
2  'Maintain scrub' by coppicing 50 per cent of the remaining scrub over the next 5 years and weeding around trees as necessary.


FAUNA:
Birds: Seen during survey - Blackbird, Wood pigeon, Chaffinch, Great tit, Blue tit, Mallard.

Recorded: Jackdaw, Jay, Magpie, Carrion crow, Turtle dove, Willow warbler, Garden warbler, Whitethroat, Yellowhammer, Linnet, Bullfinch, Reed bunting, Robin, Song thrush, Wren, Dunnock, Starling, Swallow, Kestrel, Collared dove, Greenfinch, Tree sparrow, Grey partridge, Swift, Skylark, Mistle thrush, Goldfinch, Chiffchaff, House sparrow, Canada goose, Willow tit, Buzzard,
Green woodpecker, Great-spotted woodpecker, Cuckoo, Rook.

Mammals: Rabbit, Roe deer, Muntjac, Brown Hare.
Fox.

Reptiles: Viviparous lizard.

The Oxon Biological Records Centre records 14 species of snail, 30 species of beetle, 29 species of spider.

Butterflies: {\it Strymonidia w-album} (White-letter Hairstreak),{\it Celastrina argiolus} (Holly Blue) {\it Goneopteryx rhamni} (Brimstone), {\it Lycaena phlaeas} (Small Copper), {\it Melanargia galathea} (Marbled White), {\it Quercusia quercus} (Purple Hairstreak), {\it Cynthia cardui} (Painted Lady), {\it Leptidea sinapsis} (Wood White).

VEG:
The section south of the A4095 has tall {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Corylus avellana} with substantial {\it Clematis vitalba, Hedera helix} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. At the time of survey there was little other ground flora. The eastern end of this section is quite wet underfoot and has much fallen deadwood.

The triangle of woodland between the A4095 and Boddington Lane has Quercus robur and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees with {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} and occasional {\it Malus sylvestris}.The ground flora at time of survey was mostly {\it Mercuralis perennis} and {\it Arum maculatum}. Half way along the length of this section on Boddington Lane a large area of dumping exists and {\it Fallopia japonica} has become established.

The main area of the Common has a grassland at its centre. On sandy soils a rabbit-grazed sward of {\it Poa annua, Plantago lanceolata, Cirsium} sp., {\it Ranunculus acris, Bellis perennis, Glechoma hederacea}. This area has a strong stand of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} at its edge which blends into scrub woodland over most of the rest of the site. This is made up of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rosa} spp., {\it Salix} sp., {\it Ulex europaeus, Rubus fruticosus}. Wetter areas have {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Ranunculus flammula}. 

A small pond overshaded by scrub exists to the south of the playing field. 

Over 370 records exist of plants at N Leigh Heath

MANAGE:
Considerable work has been undertaken to clear paths in the main section of the Common for walkers and dog-walking. Situated between 4 villages the N Leigh Common playing field and woodland paths have a valuable recreational use.
The pond could be surveyed with an eye to re-instatement as this would promote species diversity and provide another focus of interest.
The scrub and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} encroachment of the grassland could be monitored and inhibited.

Dumping of rubbish on the smaller triangular section of the Common has been substantial though  not recent.Small signs prohibiting dumping have become obscured or broken.


FAUNA:
Birds: Chaffinch, Great tit, White Pheasant (bred  to make groups of pheasants more visible), Old jackdaws nest in trees.

VEG:
The grassland areas includes {\it Ranunculus Acris, Lamnium purpurea, Molinia caerulea, Urtica dioica, Taraxacorum officinale, Cirsium} sp.,{\it Trifolium} sp., {\it Bellis perennis, Dactylis glomerata}. It is bounded by hedges of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Acer pseudoplatanus and Sambucus nigra}.

The SE corner contains fruit trees (Apple and Damson) and some {\it Taxus baccata}.

MANAGE:
If the allotments are gradually falling out of use a small woodland nature reserve could be created.
Its diversity would be encouraged by tree-planting and nest boxes.


FAUNA:
Birds: Seen during survey: Great-spotted woodpecker, Robin, Coal tit, Willow warbler, Yellowhammer.
Birds recorded: 60 species including Marsh tit, Redwing, Linnet, Brambling, Corn bunting, Common Gull, Cirl bunting.

Mammals: Rabbit, Common shrew, Grey Squirrel, Mole, Fallow deer, Muntjac, Roe Deer, Badger, Fox.

Lepidoptera:
Butterflies: Orange tip, Wall Brown, Small White, Large White, Peacock, Speckled wood, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Red Admiral, Gatekeeper, Small Tortoiseshell, Ringlet, Meadow brown.                            

Moths: Over 200 moths including {\it Photedes captiuncula} (Least minor) which is a Red Data Book species. Also {\it Cyclophora annulata} (Mocha), {\it Eugnorisma depuncta} (Plain clay), {\it Catarhoe rubidata} (Ruddy Carpet), {\it Eupithecia distinctaria} (Thyme pug), {\it Cerastis leucographa} (White-marked), {\it Scotopteryx bipunctaria cretata} (Chalk carpet), {\it Perizoma blandiata} (Pretty pinion), {\it Euxoa obelisca grisea} (Square-spot dart), {\it Discoloxia blomeri} (Blomer's Rivulet),{\it Scopula emutaria} (Rosy wave), {\it Thera juniperata} (Juniper carpet), {\it Agrotis trux luniger} (Crescent Dart) and {\it Leioptilus carphodactyla} (a plume moth) which are all 'Notable' species.

There are also records for 15 snails, 7 woodlice, 10 millipedes,7 centipedes,over 70 hemiptera (bugs).

VEG:
Records exist for over 300 higher plant species, 40 mosses and 3 liverworts for this site.
{\it Gentianella germanica} (Chiltern gentian), {\it Iberis amara} (Wild Candytuft) are listed as 'notable' species and {\it Buxus sempivirens} (Box) as a Red Data Book species.

The semi-natural woodland upslope from Steppinghill contains tall {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus robur, Prunus avium} and {\it Fagus sylvatica} (more near top of slope) with an understorey of {\it Sambucus nigra} (more near bottom of slope), {\it Crataegus monogyna, Taxus baccata, Euonymus europaeus, Prunus spinosa, Clematis vitalba, Ilex aquifolium} and occasional {\it Ligustrum vulgare}. The ground flora at the time of survey contained {\it Rubus fruticosus, Hedera helix, Arum maculatum}.
                               
Along the top path near 'The Bungalow' some {\it Larix decidua} is found amongst the woodland. The ground here is heavily indented with old chalk pits(?) Several patches of {\it Galium odoratum, Primula vulgaris} and {\it Ribes uva-crispa} are found along the path. Coppiced {\it Corylus avellana} exists further towards the large area of calcareous grassland. 

The grassland contains {\it Briza media, Helianthemum nummularium, Thymus polytrichus, Gentianella germanica, Viola hirta, Scabiosa columbaria, Anthyllis vulneraria, Centaurea scabiosa, Carlina vulgaris} and many bushes of {\it Juniperus communis}.

MANAGE:
The area is under the management of BBONT whose objectives include scrub clearance, coppicing of hazel and grazing of the grassland. Large signs inform the public about the wildlife and BBONT's objectives.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Pheasant, Nuthatch, Great tit, Blue tit, Woodpigeon.

Mammals: Rabbits.

VEG:
These old chalk pits have become wooded with {\it Salix} sp. {\it Sambucus nigra, Acer pseudoplatanus, Fagus sylvatica, Fraxinus excelsior}. The understorey includes Ligustrum vulgare, {\it Corylus avellana, Clematis vitalba}. The ground flora of both areas includes {\it Arum maculatum, Urtica dioica, Pteridium aquilinum, Hedera helix, Mercuralis perennis}.
The lower pit has some {\it Taxus baccata} at its edges. The upper pit has some planted {\it Prunus avium} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. The upper pit has considerable rubbish dumped, including concrete waste.

MANAGE:
Rubbish and concrete waste should be removed.
Planted trees may need aftercare.


FAUNA:
Birds: Seen during survey: Long-tailed tit, Great 
tit, Chiffchaff, Blue tit, Pheasant, Wren.
Recorded: Snipe, Great-spotted Woodpecker, Redwing, Woodcock, Lesser Whitethroat, Grasshopper warbler, Tree pipit, Whitethroat, Sparrowhawk, Barn owl, Willow tit, Marsh tit, Kestrel, Goldcrest, Blue tit, Woodpigeon, Jackdaw, Chiffchaff, Robin, Songthrush, Chaffinch, Blackbird, Willow warbler, Treecreeper, Great tit, Dunnock, Starling.

Mammals:  Rabbit, Muntjac, Deer.                            

Recorded:
6 species Woodlouse including {\it Haplophthalamus danicus} of local interest.
7 species of millipede including {\it Macrosternodesmus palicola} of local interest.
2 species of Harvestman.
12 species of Moth 
14 species of snail.
62 species of bugs including {\it Pilophorus perplexus, Liocoris tripustulatus, Orthotylus prasinus} and {\it Lygocoris populi}.

19 species of butterfly are recorded including {\it Aricia agestis} (Brown argus) and {\it Ladoga camilla} (White admiral).

VEG:
Over 130 species of higher plants are recorded from this site, 51 species of moss and 5 species of liverwort.  Over 260 higher plants are recorded for Clifton Heath and Nuneham Park.

Most of the site now consists of varying types of woodland. Planted {\it Pinus sylvestris} and {\it Larix decidua} occupy much of the centre of the site with mixed planted conifers in a band along the edge of the B4015.

The western side with two parallel paths running SE to NW has mixed conifers with {\it Sambucus nigra} and a ground flora including {\it Rubus fruticosus, Pteridium aquilinum}. Some recent treeplanting along the SW facing edge includes {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus} sp. and {\it Prunus avium}.

A recently planted broadleaf area exists on the northern side with planted {\it Quercus} sp. {\it Prunus avium} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} dominating the ground flora.                             

A small plantation of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} lies towards the south of the common.

A ditch/stream runs along the northern edge with {\it Glyceria fluitans} in evidence. The banks support {\it Primula vulgaris, Urtica dioica, Betula} sp. {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Quercis robur}.

The grassland includes {\it Dactylis glomerata, Cynosorus cristatus, Festuca ovina, Festuca rubra, Agrostis stolonifera}.

The carices are represented by {\it Carex divulsa} ssp. {\it Leesii, Carex muricata, C.sylvatica, C acutiformis, C remota, C.riparia}, and {\it C. hirta}.

MANAGE:
This former heathland may have been invaded too much to effect any restoration of the heath. The woodland is interesting for its mixed nature and age range. A pond would provide a new focus of interest.


FAUNA:
DURING SURVEY:
Nuffield Common: Magpies, Chaffinch, Blackbird
Great Spotted Woodpecker.    

Little Common:   Blackbird, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Willow tit, Nuthatch, Pheasant, Kestrel, Wood pigeon. Fox, weasel, old badger sett.                         

Section E of Nippers Grove:  Great Tit, Blackbird, Robin, Redwings. Muntjac deer, Frogspawn in ditch.

Ipsden Heath:	 Nuthatch, 2 Treecreepers,
Magpie, Wood pigeon.

Checkendon Common: Blackbird, Great Tit, Goldcrest, Nuthatch, Wood pigeon. Fox, Grey Squirrel, Muntjac deer.

Newnham Hill Common: Nuthatch, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Great Tit, 2 Treecreepers, Magpie, Wood Pigeon.		
				 
RECORDED:
Ipsden Heath:	 A bulin snail, {\it Ena montana} 
a Red Data Book 3 species. Ground Beetles: {\it Pterostichus niger, Trechus obtusus}. Other Beetles: {\it Atrecus affinis, Aphodius obliteratus, Philonthus decorus, Ocypus melanarius. Sinodendron cylindricum}. Woodlice: {\it Oniscus asellus, Porcellio scaber, Trichoniscus pusillus}. Centipedes: {\it Brachygeophilus truncorum, Lithobius variegatus}.
Slug:{\it Limax maximus, Arion subfuscus}.

VEG:
Nuffield Common: The golfing greens dominate the site with islands and bands of broadleaf trees. The broadleaf trees comprise {\it Quercus robur} with  understorey trees of {\it Ilex aquifolium, Sambucus nigra, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}. The ground flora includes {\it Anemone nemorosa, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Arum maculatum, Rubus fruticosus} and {\it Rubus idaeus, Galeobdolon luteum}. Some {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} is found near Goose Common. Some areas of planted trees (usually {\it Fagus sylvatica}) exist near 'The Cottage' and alongside the road that crosses from the A 423 to Nuffield.

Some areas of rough grass that include {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Agrostis stolonifera, Achillea millefolium} and {\it Taraxacorum} sp. can be found on the edges of the common, for example to the North of Huntercombe Golf Club.                              

The golf greens include bunkers with some dry heath which probably indicates a formerly more widespread habitat. The dry heath areas include {\it Rumex acetosella, Rhytidiadelphus} sp. {\it Luzula campestris, Galium saxatile, Poa annua} and {\it Calluna vulgaris}. Some patches of {\it Ulex europaeus} exist in some areas.

Little Common: (Surveyed from minor road) A mixed woodland of {\it Quercus robur,  Fraxinus excelsior} with {\it Fagus sylvatica} dominant. Coppiced {\it Corylus avellana} exists near the road and there is substantial planting of {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it Prunus} sp. Understorey trees such as {\it Sambucus nigra, Salix} sp. and occasional {\it Taxus baccata}. The ground flora includes, {\it Glechoma hederacea, Mercuralis perennis, Galium aparine, Geranium robertianum, Hedera helix, Arum maculatum} and {\it Clematis vitalba}.

Newnham Hill Common:  A wooden-fenced paddock at the north end has improved grassland with isolated {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fagus sylvatica}. 

The main area of the Common has high even-aged {\it Fagus sylvatica} with an occasional {\it Quercus robur, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Taxus baccata}. Generally the ground flora is thin with {\it Hedera helix, Arum maculatum, Carex sylvatica, Euphorbia amygdaloides, Anemone nemorosa, Galium odoratum, Iris foetidissima} and {\it Rubus idaeus}. The thin section of the common on the SW side of the road has a wider mix of broadleaf species with much {\it Ranunculus ficaria} evident.

Ipsden Heath:  The central portion of the site is owned and managed by the Woodland Trust (see map). Their management plan describes their section as '... a high forest structure and is comprised of mixed broadleaves with scattered yew of a wide age range'. {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Taxus baccata} may be as much as 250 years old. A 6 acre section comprises of planted Quercus rubra} and mixed conifers planted in the 1960's.

The Woodland Trust land is bounded by Urquart Lane on the North side but Common Land extends further North. The eastern side near Wentworth farm has some large {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Prunus avium} though some of the latter have been sawn down leaving stumps and deadwood. Understorey trees include {\it Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Corylus avellana}. Ground flora, at the time of survey, included {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Rubus fruticosus, Glechoma hederacea, Arum maculatum}, and {\it Mercuralis perennis}. Substantial amounts of deadwood found. Near Morgan's Wood there are some large {\it Taxus baccata}. 
Near Homer End a substantial pit has many planted cypress conifers. SE of Homer End lies a conifer plantation with some birch and beech. Adjacent to Urqhart Lane not far from its junction with Kit Lane lies a newly planted area of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Corylus avellana} in tubes under {\it Larix decidua}.

The western side of this area has much conifer including {\it Picea sitchensis} and {\it Larix decidua} and occasional broadleaf. Much {\it Clematis vitalba} is in evidence and, on the western edge, {\it Euonymus europaeus}. There are pheasant feeding points in this area. The ground flora includes {\it Galium odoratum, Mercuralis perennis, Glechoma hederacea, Ranunculus ficaria, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Rubus idaeus}.
The area to the South-East of the Woodland Trust land is broadleaved woodland with {\it Quercus robur} (some quite old specimens),{\it Prunus avium, Fagus sylvatica}, and much {\it Ilex aquifolium}.

A path passing from the SW corner of the Woodland Tust area NE to Kit Lane passes some large specimens of {\it Taxus baccata} with some old pits and evidence of camping fires. 

Checkendon Common: North of Emmens Lane the wood consists mostly of {\it Fagus sylvatica} with {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. There some spindly {\it Betula} sp. and some understorey of {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Coryllus avellana}. Some areas of {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} exist but very little {\it Rubus fruticosus} compared with south of Emmens Lane where it thrives. {\it Digitalis purpurea} is found here in disturbed areas. Pitman's Common has high {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fagus sylvatica} canopy whilst Pitman's Shaw has tall {\it Fagus sylvatica} with {\it Ilex aquifolium}. The sparse ground flora includes {\it Luzula sylvatica, Polytrichum} sp. and {\it Hypnum cupressiforme, Cerastium holostoides, Glechoma hederacea}.
This area also has a patch of planted {\it Fagus sylvatica} in tubes which appear to be growing well.

A path passes from the SW corner towards Larchdown Farm with {\it Quercus robur, Fagus sylvatica, Ilex aquifolium} and occasional {\it Taxus baccata}. Part of the boundary bank that surrounds the whole Common has good bryophyte growth. Driffield Common continues the broadleaf canopy until the the southern edge is reached where it becomes mixed with {\it Larix decidua}. The most southerly point is {\it Picea sitchensis} plantation.

Opposite Woodland House is a {\it Picea sitchensis and Larix decidua} plantation.

Land E of Nipper's Grove: An area of woodland divided into sections by a minor road and several well-used paths and bridleways. To the West of the minor road is an area of mixed-age {\it Quercus robur, Tilia europaeus, Betula} sp, {\it Fagus sylvatica, Castanea sativa, Acer pseudoplatanus}. Some {\it Prunus avium} have been felled and some other trees are marked.
The northern part of the section is very wet but {\it Betula sp.}invasion in progress with {\it Fagus sylvatica, Cornus sanguinea, Salix} sp., {\it Ulex europaeus, Rubus fruticosus}. Some {\it Fagus sylvatica, Fraxinus excelsior and Quercus robur} have been planted in tubes.

Other sections have mixed broadleaf woodland with a ground flora including {\it Euphorbia amygdaloides, Hypericum perforatum, Mercuralis perennis, Rosa canina, Arum maculatum, Rubus idaeus, Prunus laurocerasus} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}.

A patch of {\it Rhododendron ponticum} lies along the road at the southernmost point of the area.
A small pond lies south of the bridleway but is clogged and in need of attention. {\it Ranunculus flammula} in evidence.

MANAGE:
Nuffield Common: Mostly managed by Huntercombe Golf Club. Small Areas of 
				 heath in bunkers are of interest, possibly vulnerable to
				 any future redesign of the course. The greens are fertilized.	 
				
Section E of Nippers Grove:  Some {\it Rhododendron ponticum} clearance advisable.
Little Common:(Only surveyed from road) Well fenced-some recreational use. 
Newnham Hill Common: Some trees marked for felling.Very little understorey
					 and beech restricts ground flora.
Checkendon Common: Planted trees growing well. Area of conifer woodland at 
				   south end of Pitman's Shaw should be eventually replanted with broadleaf trees.
Ipsden Heath:	   Area owned by Woodland Trust is to be managed with the long-term intention to:
				   "manage the woodland on an intimate selection system.
				   	Some mature native trees will be thinned to encourage
				   	the regeneration and survival of a diverse mix and age 
				   	range of native species"
				   	The conifer/red oak blocks will be thinned to allow their gradual removal and these areas allowed to regenerate naturally with native species"
								Woodland Trust Management Plan Ipsden Heath


FAUNA:
Mammals: Squirrel, moles.
Birds: Woodpigeon, Great Tit, Blue tit, Chaffinch
		Starling.                            
		
Brimstone Butterfly.

VEG:
The 'Green' section is fairly even amenity/roadside grassland including {\it Holcus lanatus, Arrenatherum elatius, Rumex acetosa, Ranunculus acris, Urtica dioica, Arum maculatum, Taraxacorum officinale}. There are single {\it Quercus robur, Crataegus monogyna} and a line of (10 year old?) {\it Fraxinus excelsior} parallel to the minor road.

Further north a scrub of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Ilex aquifolium} can be found with a ground flora of {\it Rubus fruticosus, Arum maculatum, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Hedera helix, Mercuralis perennis}. This area seems to be unmanaged since some felling of large trees some years ago.

The North end of the site seems similarly unmanaged except for substantial cutting back of scrub under power lines. There is {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Fagus sylvatica, Quercus robur, Prunus avium} with some {\it Ilex aquifolium} understorey. The northern boundary has some large {\it Quercus robur} with {\it Betula} sp. and much {\it Ilex aquifolium}.

MANAGE:
Some areas of the 'Green' are mown. Some areas of the grass are damaged by casual car parking.
The most active management of the wood/scrub is the coppicing of trees under power lines which stimulates the ground flora. There is abundant deadwood including large trunks with good bryophyte growth.


FAUNA:
Birds: Seen during survey: Chaffinch, Great Tit, Woodpigeon, Chiffchaff, Willow warbler.
Over 75 species (34 nesting) recorded over SSSI as a whole.

Mammals seen during survey: Fallow deer.

VEG:
The area is largely coppiced {\it Fagus sylvatica} with some {\it Acer campestre},Prunus avium, Sorbus aria, Fraxinus excelsior}, and {\it Taxus baccata}. The site is included as 'Ancient Semi-natural Woodland' in the Inventory of Ancient Woodland for Oxfordshire. 
A small area of coppiced Oak is found on the eastern side with an area of coppiced {\it Corylus avellana} to the north-east.

The understorey of the {\it Fagus sylvatica} areas is limited but includes {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna, Acer campestre}. The ground flora includes {\it Euphorbia} sp., {\it Melica uniflora, Stachys sylvatica, Bryonia dioica, Rosa arvensis, Silene vulgaris, Orchis mascula, Allium ursinum, Hypericum humifusum, Hypericum pulchrum, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Mercuralis perennis, Lonicera periclymenum, Dryopteris filix-mas, Rubus fruticosus} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

Under power lines which pass East - West across the Common the woodland has been cut down and the ground flora has revived. It includes {\it Verbascum thapsus, Epilobium montanum, Chamerion angustifolium, Linaria} sp.

An area between the Common and Freedom Paddock has a large colony of {\it Paris quadrifolia} and some {\it Helleborus viridis}.                             

Some revival of Heath vegetation has been found to occur after coppicing including the reappearance of small amounts of {\it Calluna vulgaris}.

MANAGE:
Maidensgrove Scrubs had 'a scrubby heathy vegetation since at least 1750 until the early 1900's '. The coppiced wood was used for the local brick-making industry. This declined and thus the coppicing stopped until revived by BBONT in recent years. Whilst successful at encouraging a diverse ground flora the effort required outweighed the ecological and financial benefits.

Staff at the Warburg reserve are keen for new input into the management of Maidensgrove Scrubs and see it as part of a wider habitat (medieval beech coppice?) that includes the Nettlebed Commons and Russell's Water Common.


FAUNA:
Birds: seen during survey - Starling, Crow Moorhen, Mallard, Great-crested grebe, Reed warbler, House Martin, Grey wagtail, Yellow wagtail, Skylark, Coot, Blackbird, Common sandpiper.

Birds recorded: Over 1000 wigeon, 1000 snipe, teal, pintail, shoveler, lapwings.
For Port Meadow, Wolvercote Common and Green SSSI
over 110 species recorded.

Mammals: Grazing at time of survey:
		 About 80 horses.
		 About 290 cattle.			                             
		 
Butterflies: {\it Aglais urticae},(Small tortoiseshell) {\it Maniola jurtina},(Meadow Brown), {\it Coenonympha pamphilus},(Small Heath), {\it Pieris rapae} (Small white).

33 other records for invertebrates from 1992.
Over 30 records for snails, 58 records for Coleoptera exist for the Port Meadow, Wolvercote SSSI.

Byrozoa. Red Data Book 3 (1991) has a pre-war record for Port Meadow of {\it Lophopus crystallinus} (Rare)

VEG:
The SSSI citation denotes 4 main vegetation regions:

The first is the raised area to the south where building waste material was dumped in the last century. Some of this was sown in the 1960's and is thus a {\it Lolium perenne} dominated grassland (MG7). The rest of this area is an MG11 ({\it Festuca-Agrostis-Potentilla anserina}) grassland.

Moving north the raised ground descends to the  MG13 {\it Agrostis stolonifera - Alopecurus geniculatus} grassland which often floods in winter. This contains {\it Mentha aquatica, Glyceria fluitans, Myosotis scorpioides, Galium palustre, Triglochin palustris, Oenanthe fistulosa} and the moss {\it Brachythecium rutabulum}.

Central to Port Meadow lies an area of MGll ({\it Lolium perenne} sub-community) with {\it Deschampsia caespitosa, Carex hirta}, and {\it Trifolium fragiferum}.

The highest part of the Common has MG5 {\it Cynosurus cristatus - Centaurea nigra} grassland of ancient hay meadows.

Of particular note is the Red Data Book species - {\it Apium repens} in its only known site in the UK. Accordingly to work by the Ashmolean Natural History Society and English Nature's Species Recovery Programme the Port Meadow site has two distinct populations of {\it Apium repens}.
{\it Polygonum mite} is also nationally rare. Locally {\it Juncus compressus} is uncommon.

178 species are recorded for Port Meadow, Wolvercote Common and Wolvercote Green SSSI.                                

Other points of note:

By the public entrance in the SE corner of Port Meadow one finds pollarded willows alongside the ditch on the east facing side of the common. These often have epiphytic {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} growing on them. The ditch supports {\it Callitriche} sp. {\it Glyceria fluitans, Nasturtium officinale, Ranunculus aquatilis} and {\it Cardamine pratensis}.

Fiddler's Island is part of the Common though not of the SSSI. It supports {\it Phragmites australis, Urtica dioica, Chamerion angustifolium, Ranunculus ficaria, Alliaria petiolata, Aegopodium podagraria, Cardamine pratensis, Filipendula ulmaria, Iris pseudocorus, Potentilla anserina} and {\it Symphytum officinale}. Trees on the island include, {\it Salix cinerea, Alnus glutinosa, Populus} sp.

The small area to the east of the railway contains much {\it Urtica dioica, Salix} sp. and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. The area is much used for rubbish dumping.

The common is of archaeological interest with a bronze age settlement and 'Round Hill' near the middle on the eastern side.The embankments of these sites support {\it Bellis perennis, Hypochaeris radicata, Plantago} sp., {\it Potentilla anserina}, and {\it Ranunculus bulbosus}.

MANAGE:
The site has been grazed for over 1000 years and is thus of prime importance for the study of the effects of grazing on plant communities. The sites importance for historical, archaeological and recreational use is beyond measure.

There is no shortage of active concern over the sites future whether from the Commoners, local authority or the press.
At the time of survey the proposal that a Local Act is brought in to give the City Council control over the grazing is contentious.The organizations concerned with wildlife wish to influence the extent of winter grazing to prevent any long-term damage to the site.  Also the area (together with associated SSSIs) is a proposed Special Area of Conservation (SAC).

Minor abuses of the main area of the Common such as the dumping of tyres in ditches could be cleared up by occasional voluntary teams. The small area to the east of the railway needs larger scale clearance of rubbish and more substantial barriers.


FAUNA:
During Survey: Grazing Cattle and horses.
Birds: Chaffinch, Crows, Starlings, Grey Wagtail,
House Martin.
Overwintering Birds: See entry under CL1 (Port Meadow)

VEG:
The SSSI citation (quoting A McDonald) indicates that the pasture on the highest and driest part of the SSSI area (i.e. Wolvercote Common) is a 'unique variant of the {\it Cynosurus cristatus- Centaurea nigra} grassland (MG5) that is normally associated with ancient hay meadows and pasture.
The constant species of this community are all present plus {\it Galium verum, Plantago media, Achillea millifolium}. True meadow species are suppressed by the permanent grazing. Wetter areas support {\it Cirsium eriophorum, Rumex acetosa, Alopecurus pratensis, Potentilla anserina, Leontodon hispidus, Trifolium dubium, Trisetum flavescens}, and {\it Cirsium acaule. Cirsium arvense} and {\it Senecio jacobea} have invaded the area since 1950's.

{\it Limosella aquatica} was 'fairly abundant' on drying cattle-poached mud near the Northern end of the site in 1982.                               

178 species are recorded for the whole SSSI.

MANAGE:
The Nature Conservation objectives as outlined by the Site Objective statement for the SAC are
1 To maintain the grazed grassland communities and associated plant and animal species through the continuity of grazing management.

2 To maintain the population of {\it Apium Repens} (Port Meadow)

The main current debates for the whole SSSI centre around overgrazing in winter/spring and undergrazing in the summer.

Thistles and ragwort present a persistent weed problem. Topping and weed wiping are effective but there is possible damage to the sward. A Thistle control experiment is in progress, carried out by ADAS and IGER Aberystwyth. Port Meadow and presumably Wolvercote Common has a large seed bank of viable creeping thistle seed.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit: 
swallow, long-tailed tit, whitethroat, blackcap, willow warbler, chiffchaff, moorhen, mallard, pheasant, great tit, blue tit, woodpigeon.
Fox, rabbit, grey squirrel.
Frog.
Speckled Wood.
Nemophora degeerella (a moth).

VEG:
This valuable site contains a variety of woodland, scrub and grassland habitats, plus some fine aquatic vegetation. The pools near the northern boundary are particularly valuable. Most of the water surface of the pool (1) is covered by the variety Stratiotes aloides, which has been introduced here (Suiker et al 1985). Other aquatic species include: Hydrocharis morsus-ranae, Menyanthes trifoliata, and Potamogeton natans. Trees and scrub overhang many of the banks, but ground flora near the pool includes Mentha aquatica, Tamus communis, Geum urbanum, Geranium robertianum, Alliaria petiolata, Veronica chamaedrys, and Ranunculus repens. 

The variety Ranunculus lingua occurs in the pool (2) which also contains S. aloides, plus Ranunculus sceleratus and Callitriche sp. Pool (3) had no free water at the time of the survey, but has a large patch of Equisetum fluviatile, plus Lotus uliginosus and Solanum dulcamara.  Pool (4) bears Azolla filiculoides on its surface, and contains Oenanthe aquatica, Iris pseudocorus, Cirsium palustre and R. sceleratus. 

The woodland in the western half of the site contains frequent Betula pendula and Quercus petraea, with Fraxinus excelsior, Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna, Ulmus glabra and Acer pseudoplatanus. Ground flora here includes G. urbanum, Stellaria holostea, Lonicera periclymenum, Rubus fruticosus, Galium aparine and Geranium endressii. Geranium lucidum
occurs near the carpark at the centre of the site. Pteridium aquilinum is frequent, and dominates in more open areas, where there has also been some planting of Prunus avium and Sorbus intermedia. Amongst the bracken occur frequent Chamerion angustifolium, plus Digitalis purpurea, Poa trivialis, Holcus lanatus and Arrhenatherum elatius.

Area (5) consists of damp woodland and scrub with frequent Salix cinerea, plus Q. petraea, B. pendula, Prunus spinosa, Corylus avellana, S. nigra, and a fine mature Quercus robur on the boundary. L. periclymenum has climbed high up some of the trees, and the understorey holds Solanum dulcamara, Moehringia trinervia, Stachys sylvatica, Urtica dioica and locally frequent Deschampsia cespitosa. A damp clearing has Cirsium palustre, Lotus oliginosus, Epilobium hirsutum and Juncus inflexus.

Verges beside the wood in the south-west part of the site contain frequent F. excelsior and P. spinosa, with B. pendula, B. pubescens, C. monogyna and C. avellana. Ground flora includes R. fruticosus, Heracleum sphondylium, C. angustifolium, Epilobium hirsutum and Potentilla anserina. Dumped garden waste is probably the source of clumps of Phalaris arundinacea var. picta (Gardeners' Garters). The site of a small dried-up pond at (6) contains Juncus effusus, S. dulcamara and frequent Glyceria sp.

There are areas of neutral grassland in the eastern half of the common, some with scattered scrub. A elatius is frequent, with Alopecurus pratensis, Anhoxanthum odoratum, Festuca rubra, Deschampsia cespitosa, Anthriscus sylvestris, Rumex acetosa, P. anserina, Trifolium pratense, Equisetum arvensis, Carex ovalis, Cynosurus cristatus, H. sphondylium, Poa pratensis, Stellaria graminea, Cardamine pratensis and Angelica sylvestris. C. monogyna is the most frequent shrub species, with P. spinosa, S. nigra and occasional saplings of Sorbus aucuparia and Fraxinus excelsior.

The area of dense scrub in the eastern area is dominated by C. monogyna and P. spinosa, with occasional S. nigra, Rosa sp. and Urtica dioica.

MANAGE:
The site is a Shropshire Wildlife Prime Site and is managed as a nature reserve. There are maintained paths, boardwalks and seats. There has been dumping in the south-west of the site at (7).


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit: 
moorhens, mallard, nuthatch, blackcap, wren, blackbird, robin, greenfinch, woodpigeon.
Mole (hills).
Toad (young). Frog (young).
Stickleback.
Speckled Wood.

VEG:
An unusual common in built up area, containing a lake and a valuable area of willow and sallow carr. A small stream flows into the lake at its eastern end, and an outflow stream exists into a culvert from the western bank (1), which is mostly concreted. Several large Tilia x vulgaris grow on this bank, and the sparse flora beside the lake includes Poa nemoralis, Geum urbanum and Rubus fruticosus. A path runs along the northern bank (2) of the lake, which has Acer pseudoplatanus, Ilex aquifolium, Alnus glutinosa, Fraxinus excelsior and Taxus baccata, plus Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Symphoricarpus albus, Reynoutria japonica and Silene dioica.

The eastern half of the site (3) is the most valuable area. Most of it is dominated by tall Salix fragilis, with occasional A. glutinosa, Sambucus nigra and Aesculus hippocastanum. In damp areas beneath the trees occur Apium nodiflorum, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Ranunculus scleratus, Myosotis scorpioides, Sparganium erectum, Solanum dulcamara, Mentha aquatica, Scrophularia auriculata and Valeriana officinalis, plus frequent Urtica dioica and Rubus fruticosus. In drier areas occur G. urbanum, Festuca gigantea, Mercurialis perennis and Stacys sylvatica.

The central area of the site, in between the open water and of the lake and the tall willow carr, consists of an island of Salix cinerea and S. fragilis carr (4) separated by channels leading into the lake. The willows here are much smaller than those in the eastern part of the site, suggesting that recent encroachment has occurred, perhaps due to silting at this end of the lake. In this area occur Filipendula ulmaria, Epilobium hrisutum, Caltha palustris, Angelica officinalis, Lycopus europaeus and Cardamine pratensis.

MANAGE:
The common is managed by Donnington Parish Council and some clearance of the vegetation has occurred in the eastern area to keep channels open. The concrete paths around the western and northern edges of the lake are much used by people walking dogs, feeding ducks etc.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visits: 
Swift, Swallow, Green Woodpecker, Blackcap, Skylark, Cuckoo, Willow Warbler, Yellowhammer, Jay, Robin, Kestrel, Wren, Crow.
Badger, Fox, Rabbit.

VEG:
The Cliffe (locally pronounced 'Klife') contains a variety of grassland, heathland and woodland habitats.

In the northern region the east-facing slopes contain areas of scattered bracken and abundant Deschampsia flexuosa, with occasional patches of Calluna vulgaris and Vaccinum myrtillus, plus Digitalis purpurea, occasional Erica cinerea, Aphanes arvensis, Galium saxatile, Holcus lanatus and Rumex acetosella. There are patches of dense bracken, Ulex gallii, and scattered trees. Area (1) contains Quercus robur, Betula pendula and Malus sylvestris, with Lonicera periclymenum, Rubus fruticosus and Teucrium scorodonia.

Areas (2) and (3) are both sites of old fires, with much bare ground and scattered low Calluna vulgaris (not attaining 25% cover). D. flexuosa is frequent with scattered P. aquilinum, plus Rumex aceosella and Chamerion angustifolium. Area (3) is also being heavily encroached by Betula spp. saplings. The track along the eastern boundary is flanked by some fine mature Quercus petraea, with Q. robur, B. pendula, Sorbus aucuparia, Ilex aquifolium and Sambucus nigra.

The woodland in areas (4) and (5) has frequent Fraxinus excelsior and Acer pseudoplatanus, plus Ulmus glabra, Q. robur, B. pubescens, Prunus domestica, Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, I. aquilinum and Prunus avium (rare). Ground flora includes Hyancinthoides non-scripta, Corydalis claviculata, Hedera helix, Anthriscus sylvestris, Urtica dioica, Ribes uva-crispa, Symphoricarpos rivularis, Hesperis matrionalis and Vinca major. Old walls in the woodland bear Umbilicus rupestris, Polypodium vulgare and Phyllitis scolopendrium.

There is fine stand of Calluna at (6), with some Erica cirerea and U. gallii, and a large patch of U. gallii occurs at (7). In the southern part of the site, area (8) has frequent P. aquilinum and D. flexuosa, with scattered Sorbus aucuparia, Quercus petraea and Castanea sativa (rare). There is also a fenced off reservoir with acid grassland in this area.

Woodland at the southernmost part of the site has frequent Quercus robur, with Q. petraea, B. pendula, Pinus sylvestris (rare), S. aucuparia and C. sativa. Sambucus nigra, C. avellana and Rubus fruticosus occur in a long-disused quarry (9), which has a sheer rock face now overshadowed by Q. robur.

The woodland in area (10) is dominated by B. pendula and B. pubescens, with occasional S. aucuparia. P. aquilinum and D. flexuosa are frequent, with scattered C. vulgaris and Vaccinium myrtillus, plus E. cinerea, Stellaria holostea, U. dioica and L. periclymenum.

MANAGE:
34% of the site has some heather (mostly C. vulgaris, with local E. cinerea). 2% has heather at > 25% cover, whilst 32% is at < 25% cover. 9% of the site has damaged heather ('drumstick', and possible weather damage).

The common is much used for recreation by walkers and people exercising dogs, and horse riding also occurs. Signs of off-road motorcycling were apparent, and the quarry in the south of the site has been used for dumping. Clearance of birch saplings would be beneficial in area (3), to prevent encroachment on the remaining areas containing Calluna vulgaris.


FAUNA:
Recorded during the site visit:Merlin (female), Curlew, Skylark, Linnet, Swallow, Meadow Pipit, Cuckoo, Magpie, House Martin.
Grey squirrel, Rabbits.
Common Lizard.
Small Heath.

VEG:
The common is mostly covered by dry heath habitats with some acid grasslandand locally frequent bracken, plus smaller areas of wet heath, flush and scrub.

Most of the areas of dry heath area dominated by Calluna vulgaris with occassional Vaccinium myrtillus, Erica cinerea, Deschampsia flexuosa, Galium saxatile, Carex binervis and Danthonia decumbens. In area (1) V. myrtillus is dominant, with frequent Juncus squarrosus, plus C. vulgaris, Nardus stricta, Juncus effusus and Rumex acetosella. Areas (2) and (3) are dominated by Ulex gallii.

There are several areas where heather has been burnt (shaded area on map), and these hold low C. vulgaris and V. myrtillus with acid grassland and patches of bare peat. Area (4) is a mosaic of C. vulgaris heath and acid grassland, the latter containing abundent N. stricta, with Festuca ovina, D. flexuosa, Aira praecox, J. squarrosus, Potentilla erecta and G. saxatile. An area near the northern tip of the common is dominated Pteridium aquilinum, and bracken forms a mosaic with dry heath over large areas along the north west boundary.

Wet heath occurs in several areas, with frequent Erica tetralix and Sphagnum sp., and there are two parallel acidic flushes at (5). These contain Carex panicea, Carex echinata, Agrostis canina, Trichophorum cespitosum, Blechnum spicant and J. effusus. 

Patches of woodland along the north-eastern boundary consist of Betula pubescens with occasional Quercus robur, plus rare Fagus sylvatica, Larix decidua and Castanea sativa. At (6) there is a single large Q. robur growing on the site of an old boundary wall, perhaps planted long ago as a marker tree.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep, and there were signs of cattle having grazed in the western half. Heather survey summary: 79% of the site has some heather (mostly C. vulgaris with local E. tetralix). 69% has heather at > 25% cover, whilst 10% has heather at < 25% cover. 10% of the site has recently burnt heather. Bracken clearance would be beneficial in some areas, to protect the remaining heathland from further encroachment.

The common is used for horse-riding and walking, and dumping had occured in two areas.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Redstart, Willow Warbler, Raven, Skylark, Yellowhammer, Blackbird, Jackdaws (large flock), Magpie, Crow, Wood Pigeon.
Meadow Brown, Speckled Wood.

VEG:
Most of the common consists of sheep-grazed improved grassland, in which Lolium perenne, Cynosurus cristatus and Trifolium repens are frequent, plus Cerastium fontanum, Achillea millefolium, Cirsium arvense and occasional patches of Urtica dioica.

The main areas of conservation interest occur on the steeper slopes. Adjacent to the north-west boundary there is a slope bearing several large patches of dense Ulex gallii, around which occur occasional Digitalis purpurea, Pontentilla erecta and Oxalis acetosella. In between the gorse patches are areas of semi-improved acidic grassland with Agrostis capillaris frequent and L. perenne, C. cristatus and T. repens occasional. A small area of unimproved acidic grassland contains Campanula rotundifolia, Veronica officinalis, D. purpurea, O. acetosella, Galium saxatile, Festuca ovina, A. capillaris and Anthoxanthum odoratum. At the base of the slope there is a steep gully (dry at time of survey), with Oreopteris limbosperma and Blechnum spicant occuring on its flanks.

In the south-east region of the common there is an unusual assemblage of trees, some obviously planted, in a dry valley (1). These include single specimens of Picea abies and Chamaecyparis lawsoniana, plus Syringa vulgaris, Prunus domestica, Fagus sylvatica, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra and Corylus avellana. Adjacent to the trees are patches of U. dioica with Cirsium spp.

East of the dry valley is a slope with scattered U. gallii above, and Pteridium aquilinum, some continuous, below. At the top of the slope is an old enclosure (2), consisting of an area of semi-improved acid grassland surrounded on four sides by rows of C. monogyna. In one corner of the enclosure (3) there is a single Tilia x europaea and four tall Acer pseudoplatanus.

Two small ponds occur on the common, much used by sheep for drinking. Their flora includes Ranunculus hederaceus, Lythrum portula and Glyceria fluitans. A sheep fence and hedges surround the site, the latter dominated by C. monogyna.

MANAGE:
The common is heavily grazed by sheep, and only the steeper slopes are of conservation interest. A small quarry occurs in the western part of the site, which showed signs of recent stone excavation.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Redstart, Blackcap, Chiffchaff, Swift, Wren, Robin, Blackbird, Woodpigeon.
Grey Squirrel, Mole (hills).
Ringlet, Meadow Brown.

VEG:
A large proportion of the common is covered by deciduous woodland. There are some magnificent specimens of Quercus robur, Quercus petraea, Acer pseudoplatanus, Aesculus hippocastanum and Castanea sativa, plus Betula pendula, Salix caprea, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Ilex aquifolium and Taxus baccata. A single large Platanus x hispanica occurs at (1).

Beneath the trees Lonicera periclymenum, Rubus fruticosus and Pteridium aquilinum are frequent, plus Digitalis purpurea and less common Melampyrum pratense and Luzula sylvatica. In more open areas Holcus lanatus, Dactylis glomerata and Arrhenatherum elatius occur, with Heracleum sphondylium and occasional Chaerophyllum temulentium. Dumped garden refuse is almost certainly the origin of the Tritonia x Crocosmiflora and Centaurea montana growing near a roadside carpark.

In the central region of the site (around area (2)) Carpinus betulus and Fagus sylvatica are dominant, and the ground flora is sparse due to shading. Hedera helix and Poa nemoralis occur here. On the steep slopes near the cliff faces above the River Teme, Fraxinus excelsior and Ulmus glabra are frequent, with A. pseudoplatanus, C. monogyna and occasional Mycelis muralis. There is an area of mixed woodland in the north of the site, with tall Pinus sylvestris and Larix decidua, plus Quercus spp., F. sylvatica, B. pendula and a large Prunus avium.

Several patches of neutral grassland occur on the common, containing frequent Arrhenatherum elatius, with Agrostis stolonifera, Hypochaeris radicata, Rumex acetosa, Plantago lanceolata and Rumex obtusifolius. Some areas in the northern region are dominated by P. aquilinum, and there are patches of tall ruderal vegetation with abundant Chamerion angustifolium, Urtica dioica, H. sphondylium and R. fruticosus, plus Symphytum officinale, Arctium minus and Tanacetum vulgare.

The cliffs and rockfaces above the river have an interesting assemblage of plants, including frequent Sedum reflexum and Umbilicus rupestris, plus Polystichum aculeatum, Asplenium trichomanes, Dryopteris filix-mas, Cheiranthus cheiri, Geranium robertianum, Tanacetum parthenium and Hieracium sp. 

Marginal vegetation beside the river includes frequent Phalaris arundinacea and Sparganium erectum, plus Filipendula ulmaria, Glyceria fluitans, Myosotis scorpioides, Epilobium hirsutum, Impatiens glandulifera and Oenanthe crocata. Alnus glutinosa is occasional.

MANAGE:
Trees in a limited area of the common showed signs of past coppicing, but indications of current management were not apparent.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Wheatear (3 seen), Yellowhammer, Jackdaws, Chaffinch, Woodpigeon.
Rabbit, Mole (hills), Grey squirrel.
Holly Blue.

VEG:
(The following description applies to the complete area of Hanway Common, although a sizeable portion of the site lies within Hereford and Worcester). 

Hanway Common consists largely of sheep-grazed improved grassland, in which Lolium perenne is abundant, with frequent Trifolium repens and occasional Poa annua. Other species include Cirsium arvense, Cirsium vulgare, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Prunella vulgaris, Veronica chamaedrys, Veronica arvensis, Urtica dioica, Cerastium fontanum and Cerastium glomeratum.

The steep slope in the north-east part of the site contains an area of woodland in which Betula pendula and Corylus avellana are frequent, with occasional Sorbus aucuparia, Quercus petraea (some large), Fraxinus excelsior, Sambucus nigra, Salix caprea, Ilex aquifolium and Acer pseudoplatanus. There is a fine old Taxus baccata beside a sunken track at the edge of the wood (1). Most of the ground flora beneath the trees has been heavily grazed by sheep, although Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Digitalis purpurea and Stellaria holostea are present.

The slope to the west of the wood has abundant Pteridium aquilinum with scattered B. pendula and frequent D. purpurea and Rumex acetosella. Two Larix decidua and patches of Ulex europaeus and Ulex gallii occur at the top of the slope, and there has been a small amount of dumping at (2). South of the slope there is a patch of scrub with scattered trees, containing Crataegus monogyna, F. excelsior and S. nigra, plus H. non-scripta, D. purpurea and Arum maculatum. A small old quarry occurs here (3).

The hedges which form the boundaries of the site are mostly composed of C. monogyna, although along the southern boundary there are scattered Acer campestre, Quercus robur, Q. petraea, C. avellana, I. aquifolium and S. nigra. 

Along part of the northern boundary (4) there are several splendid old Q. petraea, plus a half-dead I. aquifolium with bark graffiti dating back to 1909!

MANAGE:
The common is heavily grazed by sheep, and the woodland on the slope at the north of the site comprises the principal area of value to wildlife.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Goldfinch, Whitethroat, Willow Warbler, Chaffinch, Woodpigeon, Robin.
Mole (hills), Rabbits (scats).
Common Toad.

VEG:
A range of vegetation types occur on this small common which is bisected by a track. In the southern half there is a mosaic of Ulex gallii heath and marshy grassland. Amongst the gorse Erica cinerea is locally frequent, with occasional saplings of Betula pubescens and B. pendula. The marshy grassland contains frequent Molinia caerulea, plus Deschampsia cespitosa, Succisa pratensis, Centaurea nigra, Lotus uliginosus, Angelica sylvestris, Carex panicea and Cirsium palustre. Dactylorhiza maculata was flowering at the time of the survey. U. gallii heath also occurs in the northern half of the common, together with an area where the gorse has been burnt (1) and which now contains M. caerulea marshy grassland and scattered Pteridium aquilinum.

Patches of woodland occur in both halves of the site, with B. pubescens, B. pendula and Salix caprea frequent, plus Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior and Crataegus monogyna. An area of neutral grassland (2) contains Holcus lanatus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Poa trivialis, Bromus hordeaceus, Rumex acetosa, Potentilla anserina and Cardamine pratensis.

There is an unusual patch of rough grassland in the eastern corner of the common (3), where the calcicoles Avenula pubescens and Cruciata laevipes occur, together with Lathyrus montanus, Stellaria holostea, Hypochaeris radicata, C. nigra, Lotus corniculatus, Veronica chamaedrys and Anthriscus sylvestris. The position of the calcicoles close to the track and road suggests that one possible cause of their presence may be calcareous material that had been dumped there in  the past. 

Other species previously recorded at the site include Colchicum autumnale, Rhinanthus minor, Stachys officinalis, Achillea ptarmica and Euphrasia officinalis.

MANAGE:
Betula and Quercus spp. are regenerating on the common, and some management may be advisable to prevent the more species-rich grassland from becoming overgrown by scrub. Heather survey summary: 12% of the site has some heather (E. Cinerea), all of which is at > 25% cover, and in good condition. Some mowing and a bonfire have occurred on the neutral grassland close to the western edge of the common, and an area of gorse in the northern sector has been burnt.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Green Woodpecker, Nuthatch, Chaffinch, Willow Warbler, Wren, Jay, Blackbird, Blue Tit, Woodpigeon.
Deer sp. (scats), Grey Squirrel.
Orange Tip, Speckled Wood.

VEG:
The common is entirely covered by deciduous woodland. There are som splendid mature Quercus petraea, with frequent Betula pubescens and B. pendula. Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra and Alnus glutinosa are occasional in the northern part of the common, whilst the eastern side contains some fine mature Fagus sylvatica and large Acer pseudoplatanus. There is an old embankment (1) on which occur a single Pinus sylvestris and some A. glutinosa, plus Ribes nigrum, Ribes uva-crispa, Mercurialis perennis and Brachypodium sylvaticum. A conifer plantation occurs to the west of the common, and a couple of Pseudosuga menziesii occur within the commonland boundaries. 

Much of the woodland is quite open and glades occur in area (2) with Pteridium aquilinum, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Rubus fruticosus, Stellara holostea and Anemone nemorosa. P. aquilinum is frequent in the understorey over much of the common, and other ground vegetation includes Holcus lanatus, Oxalis acetosella, Teucrium scorodonia, Silene dioica, Ranunculus ficaria, Moehringia trinervia, Juncus effusus, Deschampsia cespitosa, Lonicera periclymenum, Conpodium majus, Digitalis purpurea, Ajuga reptans and Dryopteris affinis. Meconopsis cambrica occurs beside a track at the southern boundary of the common.

MANAGE:
No signs of management or stock grazing were apparent. The presence of deer scats suggests that deer may be the main grazing animals on the common.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Red Grouse (breeding), Buzzard, Green Woodpecker, Meadow Pipit, Skylark, Kestrel, Linnet, Woodpigeon, Crow, Magpie.
Fox (scat), Rabbit, Mole (hills).

VEG:
This common extends over the summit region of the highest hill in Shropshire, and its habitats can be divided into two broad groupings, namely heath and modified bog communities on the summit plateau, and bracken and acid grassland on  the slopes in the northern region of the site. Transitional communities occur between these two habitat groupings.

A large area of the summit plateau is dominated by Calluna vulgaris with frequent Juncus effusus (1). In adjacent area (2), (3) and (4) J. effusus dominates, with frequent Sphagnum sp., Polytrichum sp., Anthoxanthum odoratum and Galium saxatile. Scattered 'islands' of raised ground occur amongst the rushes, possibly spoil heaps from old quarrying operations, and these drier areas have frequent C. vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus and Nardus stricta, with Deschampsia flexuosa and Juncus squarrosus.

Area (5) is a mosaic of J. effusus dominated areas of wet heath with Sphagnum sp. frequent amongst C. vulgaris. An extensive area of dry modified bog vegetation occurs in area (6), where tussocks of Eriophorum vaginatum share dominance with C. vulgaris, whilst Sphagnum and Juncus spp. are rare or absent. A smaller area of wet modified bog occurs at (7), with frequent Molinia caerulea tussocks amongst C. vulgaris.

The summit area (8) consists of 'hills and holes' terrain, probably caused by  past quarrying, and most of this region is dominated by C. vulgaris, with varying amounts of V. myrtillus. Several pools occur in the hollows here. Pool (9) has Ranunculus peltatus, Myosotis secunda, Juncus articulatus, Ranunculus flammula, Lythrum portula, Glyceria declinata and Potamogeton sp.. Pool (10) also has Eleocharis palustris and the uncommon grass Alopecurus aequalis. Pool (11) is steep sided with little marginal vegetation, but has R. peltatus and a Salix cinerea.

A flush occurs in area (12) with frequent Carex echinata, C. panicea, C. nigra, Lotus uliginosus, Montia fontana and J. effusus, plus Polytrichum and Sphagnum spp..

At the junction between the summit plateau and the northern slopes there is an area of dry heath and acid grassland mosaic (13), where low-grazed V. myrtillus and Festuca ovina are abundant, with N. stricta, Luzua campestris, Galium saxatile and scattered low-grazed Ulex gallii. Adjacent acid grassland is dominated by N. stricta with frequent J. squarrosus and locally frequent J. effusus. Pteridium aquilinum dominates much of the northern slopes, with short-cropped acid grassland occuring on the tracks and amongst the bracken. Rumex acetosella and F. ovina are frequent, and semi-improved areas have frequent Cirsium arvense and Poa pratensis. Small sections of steep banks have Aira praecox and Thymus praecox.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep and a few horses, with grazing moderate to light on the summit plateau, but heavier on the slopes in the northern region. Heather survey summary: 73% of the site contains some heather (C. vulgaris) which is in good condition, 55% has heather at > 25% cover, whilst 18% is at < 25% cover. 4% of the site has recently burnt heather. 

Grouse breed amongst the heather and grouse shooting occurs. A radio station occurs at the summit.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Yellow Wagtail (3 seen), Lapwing (possibly breeding), Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Corn Bunting, Skylark, Reed Bunting, Swift, Whitethroat, House Martin, Yellowhammer, Willow Warbler, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Jay, Starling, Woodpigeon.
Fox, Rabbit (frequent), Grey Squirrel.
Common Blue, Small Heath, Large White, Cinnabar Moth, Burnet Moth Caterpillar.

Recorded in SSSI citation: Silver Studded Blue (the last surviving colony in the Midlands).

VEG:
The most valuable vegetation on the common occurs on the site of the old runways, which were broken up in order to prevent unauthorised motor sports occurring on them (Sinker et al. 1985). The combination of calcareous cement from the runways  and acid sand enables a diverse flora to occur. The old runway (1), which is part of the SSSI, is a mosaic of ephemeral/short perennial (ESP) communities, neutral grassland, heath and scattered scrub. The ESP communities contain frequent Leucanthemum vulgare, Hypochaeris radicata, Lotus corniculatus and Hieracium pilosella, with locally frequent Filago minima, Aira caryophyllea and Aira praecox. Patches of neutral grassland have Poa pratensis, Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Festuca rubra, Holcus lanatus, Anthoxanthum odoratum and Tragopogon pratensis, and heathy patches are dominated by Calluna vulgaris with occasional Erica cinerea. Scattered scrub consists of frequent Cytisus scoparius, plus Betula pendula, Salix caprea, Ulex europaeus and Rubus fruticosus.

At the southern end of this runway a bank of piled earth (2) is colonised by the uncommon umbellifer Anthriscus caucalis, together with Conium maculatum, Reseda luteola, Cirsium vulgare and Urtica dioica. Other species recorded from the SSSI include Parentucellia viscosa, Trifolium arvense and Jasione montana.

The smaller length of old runway (3) also has ESP vegetation on a sandy substrate, and contains similar species to (1), plus Trifolium campestre, Geranium molle, Vicia sativa and Vicia hirsuta. The probable influence of calcareous cement from the old runways is shown by the presence of Blackstonia perfoliata and Resida luteola.

Runway (4), along the south-east facing boundary, has much C. scoparius, U. europaeus and V. hirsuta, and in addition to previously recorded species has Vicia cracca, Centaurea nigra, Senecio viscosus, Sedum acre, Aquilegia vulgaris, Chelidonium majus, Hesperis matronalis, Heracleum sphondylium and Urtica dioica. At the time of survey a multi-coloured patch of Lupinus polyphyllus was in full bloom amongst old rubble piles.

North-east of the A-class road which crosses the common, runway (5) has frequent L. vulgare, V. sativa, L. corniculatus, A. caryophyllea and F. rubra, plus Trifolium repens, Bromus hordeaceus, Hypericum perforatum, Agrostis stolonifera, Trifolium dubium, T. arvense, Papaver somniferum and Vulpia bromoides.

Runway (6) has less bare ground than some other runways, with F. rubra and P. pratensis forming a dense sward in places. Notable species here include Trifolium striatum, Anthriscus caucalis, Sedum album, S. acre and Viola arvensis (the latter close to the adjacent arable field). Dumped garden refuse is probably the origin of Cerastium tomentosum and a clump of Kniphofia sp. (Red-hot Poker).

Two lengths of piled up rubble and soil extend from the north-west tip of runway (6), probably created when areas of runway were bulldozed to allow adjacent land to be cultivated. These strips are mostly dominated by tall ruderal herbs and scattered scrub, with Chamerion angustifolium, U. dioica, Galium aparine, C. scoparius, A. elatius and Cirsium arvense all frequent. The strip (7) also contains Centaurea nigra, Montia perfoliata and the uncommon crucifer Arabis glabra.

Runway (8) has much C. scoparius and occasional Salix caprea, plus neutral grassland in which occur frequent V. sativa, L. vulgare and A. elatius, together with a patch of Hieracium aurantiacum.

Runway (9) contains ESP habitats, but becomes grassier towards the north-east, with a sward of F. rubra, P. pratensis, A. elatius, Holcus lanatus and Dactylis glomerata. Hypochaeris radicata is frequent, Juncus effusus locally frequent, and a Dactylorhiza sp. orchid occurs.

The vegetation on runway (10) is a mosaic of neutral grassland, ESP communities and scattered scrub, with patches of dense C. scoparius, Aegopodium podagraria is frequent on piles of rubble and soil, and Calluna vulgaris and Erica cinerea occur infrequently.

The hub area of the runways (11) consists of ESP vegetation with S. acre and frequent V. bromoides and L. vulgare, plus piles of rubble with Cardus nutans, Anthriscus sylvestris and C. angustifolium.

In the southernmost part of the common there is an area of deciduous woodland (12), which has frequent Quercus robur, Betula pubescens and B. pendula, with Fraxinus excelsior, Populus tremula, Alnus glutinosa, Sorbus aucuparia, Malus sylvestris, Ilex aquifolium, Salix cinerea and Sambucus nigra. Ground flora includes Valeriana officinalis, Corydalis claviculata, Dryopteris dilatata, D. felix-mas, Athyrium filix-femina (on banks of ditch), Rubus idaeus, Lonicera periclymenum, Arctium minus, Holcus mollis and frequent Rubus fruticosus. Adjacent to the woodland is a mosaic of acid grassland and scattered scrub, with locally frequent C. vulgaris (not 25% cover). Species in this area include Crataegus monogyna, B. pubescens, B. pendula, C. scoparius, Deschampsia flexuosa, D. cespitosa and Teucrium scorodonia.

Huge piles of rubble occur in area (13), which have been colonised by Chaerophyllum temulentum, Galium aparine, Urtica dioica, C. angustifolium, Silene dioica, Silene alba, V. sativa, Aquilegia vulgaris (rare), H. sphondylium, V. hirsuta, A elatius, Senecio jacobaea, R. fruticosus and C. scoparius. An adjacent area of old tarmac holds Geranium molle, Senecio viscosus and Trifolium dubium.

Area (14) consists of a mosaic of dry heath and acid grassland, with frequent C. vulgaris and occasional E. cinerea plus D. flexuosa, H. pilosella, Potentilla erecta and H. mollis.

There is a fine bush of Rosa tormentosa in area (15), within a mosaic of scrub and tall ruderal herbs. C. angustifolium is locally dominant in this region.

The semi-improved neutral grassland meadow (16) has frequent Holcus lanatus, Agrostis capillaris, D. glomerata, A. odoratum, P. pratensis, Lotus corniculatus, V. sativa, Plantago lanceolata, Senecio jacobaea, L. vulgare, T. dubium and Ranunculus acris, with Viola arvensis, Bromus hordeaceus, V. hirsuta and Aira caryophyllea. The area of scrub to the west of this meadow has frequent C. scoparius and Ulex europaeus, with occasional Q. robur and Crataegus monogyna. The ground flora here includes D. flexuosa, F. rubra, V. sativa and occasional C. vulgaris.

There are large areas of arable and improved grassland on the common, and areas (17) and (18) had recently been ploughed at the time of survey.

Acid grassland at (19) is dominated by D. flexuosa and A. capillaris, with Galium saxatile and Teucrium scorodonia. Trees at (20) include mature Tilia x vulgaris, Acer pseudoplatanus and Populus canescens, and nearby occur Verbascum thapsus and Reseda luteola. The area of tall ruderal herbs at (21) contains Papaver orientale, Symphytum officinale, Conium maculatum, Symphoricarpos rivularis, Cirsium vulgare and U. dioica. Woodland at the northern tip of the site (22) is dominated by Betula pubescens and B. pendula, with frequent bracken. There is an unusual elongate dry hollow at (23) with short acid grassland probably grazed by rabbits, in which occur Ornithopus perpusillus, Aphanes arvensis and Rumex acetosella. Rosa rugosa and Syringa vulgaris grow amongst the scattered scrub and bracken east of this area.

MANAGE:
Substantial areas of this common are under agricultural management for arable production and improved grassland, and areas (17) and (18) have been recently ploughed. Relatively few signs of management were apparent in the remaining areas. Trenches have been dug in some areas of the common close to roads and tracks, presumably in order to prevent unauthorised access by vehicles. The old runway (10) has well-worn vehicle tracks along its length, and poached areas at its southern end. This runway and runway (6) have also been used for unsightly dumping. The runway extending south-east beyond the commonland boundary was being used by light aeroplanes at the time of survey. A small amount of recent felling has occurred in the wood (12). Broom scrub is regenerating and spreading in some areas of the old runways, and controlled clearance in selected areas might benefit the unusual ground flora communities by preventing overshadowing and encroachment. Heather survey summary: 1% of the site contains some heather (C. vulgaris and E. cinerea). 0.4% has heather at > 25% cover. The heather is in good condition.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Spotted Flycatcher, Bullfinch, Willow Warbler, Blackcap, Greenfinch, Song Thrush, Blackbird, Woodpigeon, Chaffinch, Wren, Robin (young), Blue Tit, Magpie.
Badger, Fox (scat), Rabbit.
Toad (adult), Frog or toad tadpoles (swarms in pools in carr).
Speckled Wood.

VEG:
The common contains a variety of habitats, and is bisected by a grassy track. Close to the canal there is a small but valuable area of waterlogged carr dominated by Salix cinerea and Alnus glutinosa. Ground flora here includes Listera ovata, Carex remota, C. obtrubae, Lycopus europaeus, Myosotis scorpoides, Filipendula ulmaria, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Ajuga reptans, Solanum dulcamara, Cardamine pratensis and Dryopteris dilatata. Waterlogged hollows here may be old marl pits (there are two rights of common in the soil for the site).

Adjacent to the carr is an area of dense secondary woodland with Betula pubescens frequent, and Quercus robur, Sorbus aucuparia and A. glutinosa occasional. The ground flora, which is sparse beneath the thickest tree cover, includes Corydalis claviculata, D. dilatata, Digitalis purpurea and Rubus fruticosus. There is a dense patch of Pteridium aquilinum in the north corner of the site.

South-west of the track an area of marshy grassland contains Viola palustris, Succisa pratensis, Angelica sylvestris, L. floscuculi, Ranunculus flammula, Cirsium palustre, Juncus effusus, Potentilla anserina, Lathyrus pratensis, Agrostis canina, Deschampsia cespitosa, Rumex acetosa and a small amount of Sphagnum sp.. This marshy grassland blends into an area of acid grassland in the southern corner of the site, containing Galium saxatile, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Succisa pratensis, Carex nigra and Hypochaeris radicata.

The habitat forming the largest single area south-west of the path consists of a mosaic of scattered scrub, scattered bracken, tall ruderal and marshy grassland. Species in this diverse habitat include S. cinerea (sprouting from coppiced stools), A. glutinosa, B. pubescens, Q. robur, Chamerion angustifolium, Urtica dioica, J. effusus, Holcus lanatus, Rosa canina, Stellaria graminea, Heracleum sphondylium, C. palustre, F. ulmaria, Vicia sepium, Veronica officinalis, Potentilla erecta, and a small amount of Calluna vulgaris. A nearby patch of dense scrub is dominated by B. pubescens and S. cinerea.

A side track (1) leading off from the main track had three flowering spikes of Dactylorhiza fuchsii at the time of survey, plus Lotus corniculatus, S. pratensis, C. nigra, R. flammula and Trifolium pratense. An overgrown ditch (2) parallel with the canal is filled with dense stands of Phalaris arundinacea, Epilobium hirsutum and F. ulmaria, and the banks have Sambucus nigra, A. glutinosa and Rosa sp..

MANAGE:
There has been some scrub removal/coppicing at this site, mostly of S. cinerea. Signs of cattle were only apparent along the NE edge of the site and in the carr, where it appeared as if they may have strayed from the adjacent field. A recently erected wire fence may now prevent this.

There has been some unsightly dumping of scrap iron, metal drums, old tyres, etc, including onto the edges of the valuable carr habitat.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Goldfinch, Swift, Meadow Pipit, Yellowhammer, Hedgesparrow, Woodpigeon, Magpie.
Fox (scat), Rabbit, Mole (hills), Grey Squirrel.
Meadow Brown.

Many other bird species have been recorded, including Merlin, Sparrowhawk, Tawny Owl, Raven, Curlew, Green, Greater-spotted and Lesser-spotted Woodpeckers, Goldcrest, Siskin, Redstart, Willow Tit, Marsh Tit and Nuthatch. The common is the site of the 6th oldest BTO Common Bird Census in the country (much voluntary work by Bill Edwards of Oswestry).
Polecat, Brown Hare and Pygmy Shrew have also been recorded.

VEG:
Large areas of this common, which is the site of an old racecourse, are covered by dense Pteridium aquilinum with scattered trees, mostly Sorbus aucoparia and Crataegus monogyna, with occasional planted Sorbus intermedia in the southern area. Digitalis purpurea and Chamerion angustifolium are occasional, and patches of acid grassland have Agrostis capillaris, Deschampsia flexuosa, Holcus mollis, H. lanatus, Carex binervis, Agrostis canina and Teucrium scorodonia.

The sites of the old racetracks are now wide acid grassland tracks, probably mown, with Festuca ovina and Rumex acetosella frequent, and D. flexuosa, Nardus stricta, Potentilla erecta and Juncus squarrosus locally frequent. A low bank beside the track in area (1) has Vaccinium myrtillus, and occasional Calluna vulgaris and Blechnum spicant. Near the road junction at the centre of the common the grassland on the tracks is improved, and probably much due to eutrophication from dogs which are frequently walked on the site. Synosurus cristatus, Lolium perenne, Trifolium repens and Phleum pratense are frequent here. The area around the ruins of the old grandstand (2) is also improved grassland.

A small patch of tall neutral grassland (3) near the road junction has Centaurea nigra, Potentilla anserina, Arrhenatherum elatius, Heracleum sphondylium, Veronica chamaedrys and Rosa arvensis. This patch occurs adjacent to a thicket of Prunus spinosa. Trees along the boundary of the common include mature Fagus sylvatica, Fraxinus excelsior and Acer pseudoplatanus, plus occasional Quercus robur and Malus sylvestris.

In the northern half of the common there is a marshy patch at (4) which is probably the site of a dried up pond. Salix cinerea is frequent, with Glyceria fluitans and a patch of Sparganium erectum. A smaller pool near the crossroads is dominated by Typha latifolia, with Juncus effusus, G. fluitans and Ranunculus flammula, and a marshy patch at (5) has Deschampsia cespitosa and J. effusus. Alchemilla glabra occurs near the carpark (6) in the southern region of the common.

Lythrum portula and Iris pseudocorus have been previously recorded from pools on the common, and other species recorded on the site include Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Orchis mascula, Viola lutea, Euphrasia sp., Rhinanthus minor, Primula veris, Sanicula europaea, Stachys officinalis, Lunaria annua, Valerianella locusta and Lychnis floscuculi.

MANAGE:
Large areas of the common are dominated by bracken, and its clearance would be beneficial. Deepening of parts of the marshy hollows to create further areas of open water would benefit aquatic species.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Buzzard, Crow, Meadow Pipit, Wood Pigeon.

Fox moth (frequent).

VEG:
The most extensive habitat on this upland common is dry heath, dominated by mature Calluna vulgaris. Much of the heather is healthy, but there are two large areas (see map) where the heather is either dead or unhealthy in appearance, possibly due to weather damage. Amongst the heather occur frequent Vaccinium myrtillus, Galium saxatile and Hypogymnia sp. lichen, plus Deschampsia flexuosa, Potentilla erecta, Nardus stricta, Carex binervis, Cladonia sp. lichen and scattered Erica tetralix. Near the southern boundary there is an area of dry heath and acid grassland mosaic where D. flexuosa and N. stricta are more frequent. Other patches of dry acid grassland contain Veronica officinalis and Juncus squarrosus.

An area of wet modified bog occurs in the north-east part of the common (1) where E. tetralix and Carex nigra are frequent, with occasional C. vulgaris and Trichophorum cespitosum. The site becomes wetter towards the eastern boundary, where Eriophorum angustifolium, Carex panicea and Sphagnum sp. are frequent beside small bog pools. Juncus bulbosus, D. flexuosa and P. erecta are occasional. A flush (2) occurs near the centre of the eastern boundary, and this contains frequent Juncus effusus, plus Carex echinata, C. pulicaris, Molinia caerulea, Ranunculus flammula, Juncus acutiflorus, Deschampsia cespitosa and Dactylorhiza maculata.

South of the flush Sorbus aucuparia saplings are frequent amongst the heather, with some Betula pubescens and Pinus sylvestris saplings. S. aucuparia also occurs along the eastern boundary, together with Salix caprea and Carpinus betulus at the edge of a plantation of Picea sitchensis. Marshy acid grassland beside the track at the western edge of the common has frequent D. cespitosa, J. effusus and D. flexuosa.

Two small disused quarries occur at the southern end of the site, just outside the CL boundary, and one of these has a water-filled base with frequent Eleocharis palustris and bryophytes including Aulacomnium palustre.

MANAGE:
Heather survey summary: 88% of the site has some heather (abundant C. vulgaris and locally frequent E. tetralix). 71% has heather at > 25% cover, and 17% at < 25% cover. 19% of the site has damaged heather, possibly due to weather damage. The sizeable areas of damaged Calluna suggest that management intervention might benefit the heathland.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Buzzard, Goldcrest, Coal Tit, Chaffinch, Robin.
Deer sp. (scats), Fox (scat).

VEG:
The site is dominated by a plantation of Picea sitchensis, with Fagus sylvatica and Larix decidua planted around the southern and eastern edges. There is almost no ground flora beneath the trees, but in the rides on the northern edge and through the centre occur Agrostis capillaris, Galium saxatile, Juncus effusus, Vaccinium myrtillus, Calluna vulgaris (occasional), Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Oxalis acetosella, Rumex acetosa, Chamerion angustifolia and Blechnum spicant.

Along the southern and eastern edges, adjacent to areas of semi-improved acid grassland, occur Holcus lanatus, G. saxatile, V. myrtillus, C. vulgaris, Agrostis canina, A. capillaris, Deschampsia flexuosa, O. acetosella and Digitalis purpurea.

There is a recently cleared patch of bare soil in the south-east corner of the site.

MANAGE:
The dense plantation of conifers has greatly reduced the botanical value of the site, although mammals and birds may use the area for shelter and possibly breeding. Heather survey summary: Heather (C. vulgaris) occurs on 11% of the site, restricted  to the rides in between he conifers and at the edges of the plantation. The heather is all at < 25% cover, and is undamaged.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Skylark, Jackdaw.

VEG:
Obley allotment consists of an area of cattle-grazed improved grassland partially enclosed by hedges. The grassland contains frequent Lolium perenne, Taraxacum officinale and Bellis perennis. The hedge adjacent to the road along the south-east boundary is mostly comprised  of Crataegus monogyna with occasional Prunus spinosa, Ilex aquifolium, Sambucus nigra and Malus sylvestris. Ground flora beneath the hedge includes patches of Mercurialis perennis, plus Allaria petiolata, Anthriscus sylvestris, Vicia sepium, Heracleum sphondylium, Urtica dioica, Ranunculus ficaria and Stellaria holostea. The defunct hedge along the western boundary consists of a line of C. monogyna.

A small copse just outside the south-east boundary of the common contains some fine, mature I. aquifolium and Pinus sylvestris, and Adoxa moschatellina occurs nearby.

MANAGE:
The improved grassland is grazed by cattle, and the boundary hedge on the south-east side is maintained.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Sparrowhawk, Buzzard, Tree Pipit, Skylark, Swallow, House Martin, Willow Warbler, Chaffinch, Wood Pigeon.
Rabbit, Fox (scat).

VEG:
The lower slopes of the western part of the common contains an area of woodland, dominated by Betula pubescens, with occasional Quercus robur, Sorbus aucuparia and Ilex aquifolium. The sparse ground flora has Pteridium aquilinum, occasional Vaccinium myrtillus and Polytrichum sp. Flushes occur in the woodland, with frequent Juncus effusus and Sphagnum sp., plus Stellaria alsine and Oxalis acetosella.

On the upper parts of the slope there is an area of dry heath, with scattered P. aquilinum and B. pubescens. Calluna vulgaris and V. myrtillus occur in the heath, with scattered Ulex gallii and some Erica tetralix. Smaller areas occur with either the bracken or the scattered birches absent. The boundary (1) consists of an old wall much overgrown with V. myrtillus.

At the base of the slope along the northern edge of the site there are some fine patches of wet heath, with E. tetralix and Sphagnum sp. frequent, plus C. vulgaris, V. myrtillus, Molinia caerulea, Potentilla erecta and occasional Ranunculus flammula, Carex echinata and C. demissa. A number of small but valuable flushes in area (2) contain Anagallis tenella, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Succisa pratensis, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Veronica beccabunga, Mentha aquatica, Cirsium palustre, Juncus articulatus, J. bulbosus, J. inflexus, Sphagnum sp., plus four sedges: Carex pulicaris, C. echinata, C. demissa and C. panicea.

There is a copse of Salix cinerea and B. pubescens at (3) with Viola palustris in an adjacent flush, and an area of wet heath dominated by Ulex gallii.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep, with no other signs of management observed during the survey. A priority would appear to be the clearance of birch saplings encroaching onto some of the wet heath areas. Dumping has occured in area (4) in the woodland, and limited signs of shooting were apparent.

Heather survey summary: 67% of the site has some heather (C. vulgaris and E. tetralix). 37% has heather at > 25% cover, whilst 30% is at < 25% cover. No signs of heather damage were apparent.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Goldfinch, Whitethroat, Willow Warbler, Chaffinch, Blue Tit, Magpie.
Rabbit (scats), Frog or Toad Tadpoles (in ditch).
Green-veined White.

VEG:
Much of this common is covered by rough neutral grassland, in which tussocks of Deschampsia cespitosa and Arrhenatherum elatius are abundant, with frequent Holcus lanatus and Festuca rubra. Other species include Rubus fruticosus, Rumex acetosa, R. obtusifolius, Urtica dioica, Heracleum sphondylium, Anthriscus sylvestris, Digitalis purpurea, Alopecurus pratensis, Agrostis capillaris and Poa pratensis. Ulex gallii is scattered in the grassland, with a large patch at (1), and other scattered scrub includes Crataegus monogyna, Cytisus scoparius and Salix caprea.

In the southern corner of the site there is a marshy hollow (probably the site of a pond) with a fine old Salix fragilis pollard and much Juncus effusus. Two more willow pollards occur in an adjacent field. In the neutral grassland near the hollow are Centaurea nigra, Stellaria holostea, Ranunculus ficaria, Lonicera periclymenum, Chamerion angustifolium and Cardamine pratensis.

An area of marsh (2) has a large patch of J. effusus at its northern end, plus Montia fontana, Stellaria alsine, C. pratensis, Galium palustre, Cirsium palustre, Juncus acutiflorus, C. pratensis and Carex nigra.

Ditches near the north-west corner (3) contain Typha latifolia, Filipendula ulmaria, Galium palustre, plus two Salix fragilis pollards and Mercurialis perennis on the banks. Narcissus sp. occurs near here, possibly planted. 

There is an area of improved grassland along the south-west boundary, plus a small area of mown lawn.

MANAGE:
The common is very much undergrazed, and scrub encroachment is likely to increase if grazing or other management is not instigated.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Moorhen (on pool), blackcap, Willow Warbler, Robin, Jay, Chaffinch, Magpie, Crow.
Badger, Rabbits (frequent), Grey squirrel.
Common Frog.
Speckled Wood.
Nemophora degeerella (a moth).

VEG:
There are a variety of habitat types on this common. Deciduous woodland covers the largest area, with birch carr dominated by Betula pubescens occuring in the region (1). Quercus robur, Corylus avellana, Sorbus aucuparia and Sambucus nigra are occasional amongst the birches, and Populus tremula is frequent near the road running north to south. The ground flora contains frequent Dryopteris dilata, plus Lonicera periclymenum, Rubus fruticosus and Digitalis purpurea, and there is a patch of Impatiens glandulifera in a damp hollow near the road.

In areas (2) and (3) the woodland is drier, with frequent Quercus robur with B. pubescens. The western area of the common contains a variety of woodland, with B. pubescens carr and Alnus glutinosa in hollows, and higher areas having Q. robur, Acer pseudoplatanus and B. pendula. There are many glades with numerous saplings. In area (4) there are tall Q. robur, A. glutinosa and A. pseudoplatanus, plus occasional S. nigra, C. avellana and Ilex aquifolium. Viola palustris and Angelica sylvestris occur in damp patches here. There is an area of Salix cinerea carr (5), with some B. pubescens and B. pendula, and D. dilatata frequent.

The site contains some fine marshy habitats. In the eastern area the marsh (6) holds frequent Hydrocotyle vulgaris and Juncus bulbosus, plus Potentilla palustris, Dryopteris carthusiana, Ranunculus flammula, Sphagnum sp., Eleocharis palustris, Juncus effusus, J. acutiflorus, Cirsium palustre, Deschampsia cespitosa and Agrostis canina. South of the marsh an area of marshy grassland is dominated by Molinia caerulea tussocks, with Erica tetralix, D. carthusiana, R. fruticosus and Galium saxatile. The marsh (7) contains Eriophorum angustifolium, Carex panicea, C. nigra and Sphagnum sp. Small pools occur, mostly overshadowed by trees.

There is an area of acid grassland with scattered low trees (8) with frequent Deschampsia flexuosa, occasional Calluna vulgaris and E. tetralix, plus Potentilla erecta, Holcus lanatus and R. fruticosus. The trees (mostly under 5m) include Q. robur, B. pubescens and B. pendula. Succisa pratensis occurs on the edge of a patch of Chamerion angustifolium near the western border of the site.

MANAGE:
There has been some cutting of birch scrub and alders in the eastern area near (6). The common is managed by the Shropshire Wildlife Trust, contracted by Shropshire District Council, and there is an aim to encourage heathland by means of grazing. There is also a Countryside Stewardship agreement on the site. Heather survey summary: 6% of the site has some heather (C. vulgaris and E. tetralix), all of which is at > 25% cover and in good condition.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Mole (hills).

VEG:
The common consists of a small field of improved grassland, dominated by Lolium perenne. Other species include Bellis perennis, Taraxacum officinalis, Cerastium fontanum, Ranunculus acris, Cirsium vulgare, C. arvense, Rumex obtusifolius, Cynosurus cristatus, Anthoxanthum odoratum and a small area with scattered Juncus effusus.

The species-poor hedges surrounding the field are dominated by Crataegus monogyna, with occasional Sorbus aucuparia, Ilex aquifolium, Acer pseudoplatanus, Lonicera periclymenum, Heracleum sphondylium, Urtica dioica and Digitalis purpurea.  There is a single Salix fragilis tree near the north-east corner.

MANAGE:
The common is completely improved and managed. At the time of the survey the field had recently received an application of lime and herbicide.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Swift, Skylark, Raven, Meadow Pipit, Magpie.

VEG:
The common is bisected by a bare soil track which runs in between the south-west and the north-east corners. To the west of this track is an area of Calluna vulgaris and Vaccinium myrtillus dry heather, with the proportion of C. vulgaris increasing from the south to the north. Other species here are Juncus squarrosus, Rumex acetosella, Aira praecox, Galium saxatile, Juncus effusus and Cladonia sp. lichen, and there are some large patches of bare peat, probably caused by overgrazing and trampling.

To the east of the track there is an area of mature C. vulgaris at (1) with some scattered Pteridium aquilinum near the adjacent road. South of (1) is an area of burnt mature C. vulgaris (2), with frequent low shoots of V. myrtillus and occasional Festuca ovina. The western and southern boundaries of the site consist of old boundary banks, c. one-third to one metre high and covered by dense V. myrtillus  and less frequent C. vulgaris. 

There is a small area of acid grassland next to the track, with abundant Agrostis capillaris, plus F. ovina, J. squarrosus, A. praecox, R. acetosella and G. saxatile.

MANAGE:
The shelter afforded by a line of trees in the adjacent excluded area (north of the site) may attract sheep to the common from the surrounding  expanse of unsheltered moorland on the Long Mynd, and this may be the cause of the areas of eroded bare peat on the common. Heather survey summary: 78% of the site contains heather (C. vulgaris), all of which is at > 25% cover. 27% has been recently burnt.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Tree Pipit, Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, Greenfinch, Robin, Great Tit, Jay.
Fox (scats).
Common Lizard.

VEG:
Most of the common consists of mature Calluna  vulgaris heath, amongst which occur Vaccinium myrtillus, frequent Cladonia sp. and Hypogymnia sp. lichens, and thick carpets of Pleurozium schreberi.

There are occasional Sorbus aucuparia and Pinus sylvestris saplings, plus occasional Pteridium aquilinum, Ulex sp., Deschampsia  flexuosa and Agrostis capillaris. Cytisus scoparius is rare, and there is a single Larix decidua at (1). Dense bracken occurs along the north-western boundary and a smaller area on the south-east border.

A path of acid grassland contains Galium  saxatile, Deschampsia flexuosa, Potentilla erecta, Juncus effusus and Holcus lanatus,  and V.  myrtillus is particularly frequent near the path along the  north-east boundary. The edges of adjacent conifer plantations contain Picea sitchensis and P. sylvestris.

MANAGE:
The surrounding plantations make the common vulnerable to scrub and tree encroachment, and some clearance of Rowan and Scots Pine saplings may become necessary. Forestry work near the south-east edge has caused vehicle damage to a small area  of the common (2). A small amount of  horse riding occurs on the path, but the  common  is otherwise largely undisturbed.  Heather survey summary: 86% of the  site has some heather (C.  vulgaris),  all of which is undamaged and at > 25% cover. The site has a Countryside Stewardship agreement.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Wheatear, Swift, Skylark, Mistle Thrush (inc. young),  Chaffinch, Crow,  Jay,  Magpie,  Woodpigeon.
Rabbit (locally frequent), Fox (scat).
Small Heath, Meadow Brown.

VEG:
The greater part of this common is dominated by dense stands of Pteridium aquilinum, with Holcus mollis frequent beneath the bracken. In the southern region of the site there is an area of semi-improved acid grassland with scattered bracken, in which Agrostis capillaris and Galium saxatile are frequent, plus Luzula campestris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Poa patensis, Poa annua, Lolium perenne, Rumex acetosella, Potentilla erecta, Polygala serpyllifolia, Veronica officinalis, Digitalis purpurea and Aira praecox. There are also patches of Urtica dioica. In the south-east corner there is  a steep slope covered by trees, including large Larix decidua, Fagus sylvatica and a single Quercus robur, plus Corylus avellana, Acer campestre and Crataegus monogyna.

In the northern corner of the site there are some fine Pinus sylvestris scattered along a dry valley (1), and one steep slope bearing tussocky Nardus stricta (2). Alnus glutinosa, P. sylvestris and Acer  pseudoplatanus  occur in area (3). There is a wide bridleway of semi-improved acid grassland along the western boundary of the site, with scattered C. monogyna along some lengths.

The runnel (4) contains Glyceria declinata, Stellaria alsine, Cirsium palustre, Veronica beccabunga, Myosotis scorpioides, Cardamine pratensis, Juncus articulatus, J. effusus and Callitriche sp.

The nearby site of a ruined cottage and enclosure  ((5) excluded from CL) contains an old Prunus  domestica and a Salix caprea, plus frequent C. monogyna.

MANAGE:
The area is sheep-grazed, and feeding stations for stock occur at (6). Rabbits were also frequent on the site at the time of survey, with a large warren at (7). Bracken clearance is obviously a priority at this site. Some horseriding occurs along the bridleway.


FAUNA:
Recorded during the site visit: 
Redstart, Wood Warbler, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Treecreeper, Blackcap, Robin, Pheasent, Jay, Crow.
Deer sp.(scats), Badger, Mole, Grey Squirrel, Rabbit.
Speckled Wood, Large White.
Rhagium bifasciatum (A longhorn beetle).

VEG:
Most of the comon is covered with deciduous woodland, in which BETULA PUBESCENS is frequent, with some huge QUERCUS PETRAEA (as in the adjacent CL19). There are some large ACER PSEUDOPLATANUS near the boundaries, and the ground flora includes frequent RUBUS FRUTICOSUS, PTERIDIUM AQUILINUM, LONICERA PERICLYMENUM and HYACINTHOIDES NON-SCRIPTA, plus TEUCRIUM SCORODONIA, JUNCUS EFFUSUS, HOLCUS LANATUS and URTICA DIOICA. 

The woodland differs in area (1), where a valley leads down to a pond named Black Pool. Tall FRAXINUS EXCELSIOR and QUERCUS SP. dominate, with ALNUS GLUTINOSA occurring along the banks of a small stream.  The ground flora is richer here, with frequent MERCURIALIS PERENNIS and H. NON-SCRIPTA, plus LAMIASTRUM GALEOBDOLON, EUPHORBIA AMYGDALOIDES, DRYOPTERIS AFFINIS, LYSIMACHIA NEMORUM, AJUGA REPTANS, VERONICA MONTANA, OXALIS ACETOSELLA, RANUNCULUS FICARIA and STELLARIA HOLOSTEA. LUZULA SYLVATICA occurs on the banks of Black Pool. 

In area (2) there are old quarries overshadowed by mature FAGUS SYLVATICA and QUERCUS Sp., with occasional ULMUS GLABRA and CYTISUS SCOPARIUS, and HEDERA HELIX on the rockfaces. 

In the northern region there are glades with scattered BETULA Spp. and P. AQUILINUM, and there is an area of dense bracken in the south. The western edge of the common is bordered by plantations, mostly conifers.

MANAGE:
Most of the common is unmanaged, but in the area of the old quarries (2) sawing of branches and logs, possibly from fallen trees, has occured.  The old quarries have also been heavily used for dumping, mostly of scrap iron and brushwood.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Chaffinch.
Rabbits (frequent burrows close to common, and seen in fields), Fox (scat).

VEG:
The common consists of a field of sheep-grazed semi-improved acid grassland, with Agrostis capillaris,  Lolium perenne, Holcus lanatus, Poa annua, Bellis perennis,  Urtica dioica and Luzula campestris.

At the north-eastern edge there is a narrow strip of acid grassland along a dry bank,  with Rumex acetosella, Galium saxatile, Achillea millefolium, Festuca rubra, Hieracium pilosella and Cerastium fontanum.

A defunct hedge of Crataegus monogyna occurs along the northern and western boundaries, and there is an area of Ulex sp. and C. monogyna along the southern boundary.

MANAGE:
The common is sheep-grazed, and rabbits are also frequent.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Kestrel, Song Thrush, Blackcap, Wren, Chaffinch, Robin, Blackbird.
Rabbit.
Speckled Wood.

VEG:
Verges alongside the track contain Anthriscus sylvestris, Veronica chamaedrys, Fumaria capreolata ssp. babingtonii, Vicia sativa, V. sepium, Heracleum sphondylium, Stellaria holostea, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Pteridium aquilinum, Festuca rubra, Poa pratensis, Bromus sterilis, Bromus sterilis,  Bromus hordaceus, Alopecurus pratensis and Brachypodium sylvaticum. Species occurring rarely include Euphorbia amygdaloides, Lotus corniculatus, Centaurea nigra, Aquilegia vulgaris, Lunaria annua and Euphorbia lathyrus, the latter on a pile of dumped soil.

Shrub and tree species in the hedges include Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Fraxinus excelsior, Sambucus nigra, Ilex aquifolium and Prunus avium and there  is a patch of Prunus laurocerasus. The areas of woodland alongside the track are mostly dominated  by Quercus petraea, with Quercus robur,  Betula pubescens, C. avellana, Acer pseudoplatanus, I. aquifolium,  Prunus domestica, Salix caprea and Sorbus aucuparia. Ground flora includes Melica uniflora,  Alliaria petiolata, Heracleum sphondylium, Geranium robertianum, Anthriscus sylvestris, H. non-scripta, Holcus mollis, Lonicera periclymenum, P. aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus, Rosa canina and Cytisus scoparius (rare).

MANAGE:
Hedges in the northern half of the  common are trimmed, whilst those in the south are mostly untended. In a few areas the edges of verges showed signs of having been sprayed with herbicide. The patches of woodland are unmanaged.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Goldfinch, Wren, Blue Tit, Robin, Great Tit, Crow.
Records from local resident:
Owl sp., Woodpecker sp.

VEG:
The eastern part of the common contains semi-improved neutral grassland with frequent Dactylis glomerata, Lolium perenne and Arrhenatherum elatius, plus Bromus hordaceus, Hordeum murinum, Bromus sterilis, Armoracia rusticana, Geranium pyrenaicum, Hypochaeris radicata, Cerastium glomeratum,  Vicia sativa, Aegopodium podagraria, Sisymbrium officinalis, Capsella  bursa-pastoris, Rumex crispus, R. obtusifolius and Taraxacum officinalis. Planted species of Alnus glutinosa, Sorbus aucuparia, Betula pendula and Pinus sp. occur  in the grassland, and there is a stand of fine mature Aesculus hippocastanum, which creates a park-like atmosphere in one area.

Deciduous woodland covers much of the western and  northern  parts of the site, with most of the larger trees occurring at the northern end. Tree and shrub species includ A. pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior, Ulnus glabra, Fagus sylvatica, Quercus robur, Acer campestre, Ilex aquifolium, Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana and Rubus fruticosus, and ground flora includes Geum urbanum, Arum maculatum, Alliaria petiolata, Heracleum sphondylium, Anthriscus sylvestris and an unusual double-flowered form of Chelidonium majus.

Low cliffs of red sandstone occur along  the northern boundary above the road, and there is an area of scrub and scattered trees at the southern end, with R. fruticosus, C. monogyna and A. pseudoplatanus frequent. There is  an old boundary wall along part of the western edge of  the  site.

MANAGE:
The common is much-used by local residents for recreation and walking dogs, etc.,  and there are many tracks and paths. At the time of survey the large Horse Chestnuts had all been painted with numbers, and according to a local resident several of them were due to be felled, apparently because of concern as to their stability in high winds. Small-scale dumping of rubbish  has  occurred.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Willow Warbler, Yellowhammer, Song Thrush, Blackcap, Buzzard, Pheasant, Chaffinch, Robin, Blue Tit, Crow, Magpie, Curlew (flying overhead), Woodpigeon, Blackbird, Owl sp. (possibly Long-eared).
Badger, Fox, Rabbit.
Orange Tip, Holly Blue, Speckled Wood, Peacock.
Calvia  14-gluttata (ladybird sp.).

VEG:
The common consists of two areas, joined by a narrow neck  of land. The north-eastern part  of the common  is visually dominated by the mound of an old Motte and Bailey (1) which has a diverse flora. The south-facing slope and summit have  short vegetation  with  Moenchia erecta, Teesdalia nudicaulis, Aphanes arvensis, Erophila verna, Hieracium pilosella and Rumex acetosella. Other slopes of the mound have taller vegetation with frequent Festuca rubra, plus Centaurea nigra, Cerastium fontanum, Poa pratensis, Teucrium  scorodonia, Heracleum sphondylium and Montia fontana.

Surrounding the motte and bailey is an area of neutral grassland, some of it semi-improved, with Arrhenatherum elatius, Alopecurus pratensis,  Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, F. rubra, C. nigra, P. pratensis, Stellaria holostea,  Ranunculus repens, H. sphondylium, and Stellaria media.

The slope to the south and south-east of the motte and bailey contains scrub, scattered Pteridium aquilinum, patches of tall ruderal and a few scattered trees. Species include Cytisus scoparius, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Malus sylvestris, Acer pseudoplatanus, Prunus avium, Rubus fruticosus, Rubus idaeus, Chamerion angustifolium,  Lonicera periclymenum and Urtica dioica, with Corydalis claviculata, Hypericum humifusum,  Ranunculus ficaria, T. scorodonia, Stellaris holostea, Hedera helix, Viola riviniana, Hyacinthoides non-scripta and Digitalis purpurea. Scrub to the west and north of the motte and bailey is mostly C. monogyna, with S. nigra, and less frequent Ilex aquifolium.

The south-western part of the common consists of a steep slope with a small stream at the base. There is a strip of woodland and scrub overhanging and alongside the stream, with Salix caprea, Corylus avellana, Quercus sp. and C. monogyna, and less frequent Alnus glutinosa, Fraxinus excelsior, Salix fragilis and Sorbus aucuparia. Caltha palustris occurs in the stream, and Filipendula ulmaria and Mercurialis perennis occur on the banks. Other ground flora near the stream includes Stachys sylvatica, H. non-scripta, Oxalis acetosella, R. ficaria, Alliaria petiolata and Holcus lanatus, and there are also large patches of C. angustifolia.

The steep slope (2) has been heavily encroached by scrub,  with Rubus fruticosus, C. monogyna, S. nigra and Cytisus scoparius frequent, and Prunus spinosa locally frequent. A. elatius, S. holostea, H. non-scripta and T. scorodonia predominate in the ground flora, with less frequent Teesdalia nudicaulis, Myosotis discolor, Aphanes arvensis, Alopecurus pratensis, C. claviculata and D. purpurea.

At the south-west end of the site there is a patch of more acidic grassland with F. rubra dominant, plus Rumex acetosella, T. scorodonia and T. nudicaulis, and there is also an area with much scattered bracken and scattered scrub.

MANAGE:
The south-western part of the common is completely unmanaged, with extensive scrub encroachment. The flatter areas in the north eastern part are frequented by walkers and people exercising dogs, and erosion has occurred around the summit of the motte and bailey. Part of the common close to the road at the northern tip of the site is used for parking cars.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Skylark (probably breeding), Buzzard (4 soaring), Curlew, Woodpigeon, Crow.
Fox, Mole (hills).
Toad (near stream just outside CL.
Orange Tip, Peacock, Small Totoishell.

VEG:
A large proportion of the site consists of marshy grassland dominated by Juncus effusus, with Agrostis capillaris and Holcus lanatus frequent, plus Anthoxanthum odoratum, Rumex acetosa, R. obtusifolius, Cerastium fontanum  and Digitalis purpurea.  In damper patches are Stellaris alsine, Galium palustre, Cardamine pratensis, Cirsium palustre and Polytrichum sp.. Ulex gallii is frequent in an area near the north-eastern boundary, and there is a patch of Urtica dioica in the northern corner. There are two areas of poor semi-improved grassland, with Lolium perenne, Cynosurus cristatus, A. capillaris, Trifolium repens, Bellis perennis, Ranunculus repens, Plantago major, Taraxacum officinale, Cirsium vulgare, C. arvense and U. dioica.

A small area of acid grassland on a steep slope in the eastern corner contains Festuca ovina,  Galium saxatile, Luzula campestris, Potentilla erecta and A. capillaaris. The  stream below this slope (just outside the CL boundary) has Veronica beccabunga, Oenanthe crocata and  Glyceria fluitans.  Ranunculus omiophyllus  and Montia fontana occur in the stream near the northern corner of the site.

Hedges along the north-west and  south-east boundaries are mostly comprised of Crataegus monogyna, with occasional Ilex aquifolium and Salix caprea.

MANAGE:
The common is sheep-grazed, although at the time of survey only the fenced area along the south-west boundary was occupied by sheep.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Garden Warbler, Willow Tit (both in woodland area (1), Song Thrush, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Greenfinch, Woodpigeon, Chaffinch, Blackbird, Crow.
Fox (scat), Rabbit (scats and burrows).

VEG:
Area (1) consists of a patch of very good quality deciduous woodland. Part of the wood is low-lying and damp, with Salix caprea, Salix fragilis, Quercus robur, Alnus glutinosa, Acer pseudoplatanus, Corylus avellana, Fagus sylvatica and Sambucus nigra. The ground flora is rich in this area, with Equisetum telmateia, Carex pendula, Caltha palustris and Filipendula ulmaria in the wettest areas,  plus frequent Allium ursinum and Mercurialis perennis. Other species include Circaea lutetiana, Anemore nemorosa, Ajuga reptans, Ribes uva-crispa, Symphytum  officinale, Dryopteris filix-mas, Aegopodium podagraria, Digitalis purpurea, Deschampsia cespitosa and Galium aparine.

A  drier part of the wood on a small hill has a sparser  ground flora, beneath mature Quercus robur, F. sylvatica, Betula pendula, C. avellana, A. pseudoplatanus and Prunus spinosa.

The elongate patch of woodland (2) is also of excellent quality. There is a deep sunken track at (3), now much overgrown, with Galium odoratum on its banks, and at the time of survey the western end of the wood contained a beautiful carpet of Allium ursinum flowering beneath coppiced C. avellana  and Ulmus glabra. Tree species in other parts of the wood  include large  Fraxinus excelsior and Q. robur, with Betula pubescens and Crataegus monogyna, and ground flora species include Lamiastrum galeobdolon, Carex remota, Carex  sylvatica, Tamus communis, Ribes uva-crispa, Poa nemoralis,  M. perennis, Alchemilla sp., Stachys sylvatica, Ranunculus ficaria, Arctium minus, Heracleum sphondylium and Rubus fruticosa.

Woodland and scrub occurs at (4), with A. pseudoplatanus, C. avellana, P. spinosa, S. nigra, F. excelsior, S. caprea, and Acer  campestre, plus Alchemilla filicaulis, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Centaurea nigra, Lathyrus pratensis, A. ursinum, Arum maculatum and M. perennis. The woodland at (5) has recently been felled, and there is an area of bracken west of (4), with Chamerion angustifolium, Urtica dioica, and H. sphondylium.

All other areas of this fragmented common consist of roadside verges, on which occur Anthriscus sylvestris, Arrhenatherum elatius, Vicia sepium, Fragaria vesca, Dactylis glomerata, Alopecurus pratensis, H. sphondylium, Stellaria holostea, Alliaria petiolata, Geranium robertianum, Poa trivialis, Sisymbrium officinale  and Aquilegia vulgaris. Area (6) contains Bromus erectus and Centaurea nigra, whilst area (7) has patches of Epilobium hirsutum and Filipendula ulmaria plus Primula vulgaris and Dryopteris filix-mas. Verges alongside (2) contain Ajuga reptans and Reynoutria japonica.

Hedges adjacent to the verges contain C. monogyna, P. spinosa, A. pseudoplatanus, S. nigra, Cornus sanguinea, C. avellana, Ilex aquifolium and Symphoricarpos rivularis.

MANAGE:
The path through the fine woodland at (1) is maintained, with a signpost, wooden steps and a walkway over marshy areas. An area of woodland at (5) has recently been felled. The roadside verges have  mostly been mown, some more frequently than others. A small amount of dumping has occurred.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Raven, Kestrel, Skylark, Blackcap, Great Tit, Magpie, Blackbird.
Small Copper.

VEG:
The steep slopes in the western half of this common are  dominated by Pteridium aquilinum, with frequent Agrostis capillaris and Galium saxatile. There is a small stream running down the slope, with an area of flush containing Montia fontana, Myosotis secunda, Anagallis tenella, Ranunculus flammula, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Carex demissa, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Mentha aquatica, Cirsium palustre, Cardamine pratensis, Sphagnum sp. and Philonotis fontana. West of the flush is a group of tall Salix fragilis.

Upslope of the bracken-dominated area a succession of vegetation types occur, changing from acidic grassland to Vaccinium myrtillus heath, then Calluna vulgaris heath, with a mosaic of acid grassland and dry heath occurring on the summit plateau. The acid grassland has abundant A. capillaris and Festuca ovina, with Rumex acetosella, G. saxatile, Holcus lanatus and Air praecox. The mosaic of acid grassland and V. myrtillus or C. vulgaris contains frequent low-grazed Deschampsia flexuosa.

MANAGE:
Heather survey summary: 20% of the site has some heather (C. vulgaris). 18% has heather at > 25% cover, and 2% is at < 25% cover. All of the heather is of the damaged 'topiary' form due to overgrazing by sheep. The areas of V. myrtillus have also been heavily cropped to a height of c. 3-6cms. Bracken clearance would be beneficial on the lower slopes.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Greater Spotted Woodpecker, Long-tailed Tit, Blackcap, Willow Warbler, Wren, Chaffinch, Blue Tit, Blackbird, Hedge Sparrow, Woodpigeon, Magpie,  Mallard (flying overhead), Canada Goose  (3 on adjacent arable land).

VEG:
The common is dominated by birch woodland, and the site name suggests that the trees are growing on the site of an old bog.

Betula pubescens is abundant,  with fewer B. pendula and occasional Sambucus nigra, Quercus robur and Sorbus aucuparia. Salix fragilis, Alnus glutinosa, Corylus avellana and Crataegus monogyna occur along the boundaries of the woodland. Area (1) contains numerous birch saplings.

The ground flora includes frequent Rubus fruticosus, Dryopteris dilatata and Chamerion angustifolium, plus  Molinia caerulea, Lonicera periclymenum, Digitalis purpurea, Galium aparine, G. saxatile, Juncus effusus, Holcus lanatus, Calluna vulgaris (rare), Urtica dioica and  Polytrichum sp.

MANAGE:
No signs of recent management were apparent, although birch and sallow in  area (2)  had been coppiced in the past, and a few old stumps were indicative of past felling. Some dumping has occurred, particularly near the north-west boundary.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Wren, blackbird, Woodpigeon, Magpie.
Fox (scat), Rabbits.
Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown.

VEG:
Most of the  common is covered by deciduous woodland in which Betula pubescens and B. pendula predominate, with Quercus robur frequent in  the southern area. Other tree  species  include Acer pseudoplatanus (along the SW  boundary), Sorbus aucuparia, Salix caprea and Populus tremula (at the south  tip of the site). In area (1) there is a  group of tall  Pinus sylvestris, some tall Q.  robur and single mature specimens of Fagus sylvatica and Larix  decidua.

Pteridium aquilinum is frequent beneath the birches, and dominates a small area beside a road. Other  species in the understorey include Vaccinium myrtillus (locally frequent), Rubus fruticosus, Lonicera periclymenum, Corydalis claviculata, Digitalis purpurea, Lamium album, Dryopteris  dilatata, Holcus lanatus and Deschampsia flexuosa. An elongate glade in the southern  area (2) has abundant Chamerion  angustifolium, Urtica dioica and H. lanatus, plus Ulex europaeus, Cytisus scoparius, Heracleum sphondylium and Artemisia vulgaris. The northern  part  of the glade has Arrhenatherum elatius dominant  in one patch and D. flexuosa dominant in another, with Vicia cracca also occurring.

Hummocky terrain in area (3) may be the site of old gravel workings. The track (4) is bordered on its western side  by a narrow strip of woodland, in  which S. aucuparia, A. pseudoplatanus, B. pubescens, Q. robur and R. fruticosus are frequent, Corylus avellana is occasional, and Ilex aquifolium and Malus sylvestris are rare. A patch of tall ruderal occurs in the eastern  part  of the site, containing  abundant Galium aparine and U. dioica, plus Cirsium arvense, Sambucus nigra,  H. sphondylium and C. angustifolium.

MANAGE:
The common appears to be at  present unmanaged. A small amount of dumping  has occurred, and signs of shooting and motorcycle scrambling were apparent. The clearance of birches  in  selected areas of the site would create glades and thus encourage a more diverse ground flora, and improve  the area for invertebrates. The creation of a pond would  also be  beneficial, although the gravelly soil might make water  retention difficult.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Wheatear, Swallow, Buzzard, House Martin, Raven,  Meadow Pipit, Kestrel, Linnet, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Crow.
Mole,  Rabbit.
Sympetrum danae (Black Darter Dragonfly).
Red Admiral, Small Copper. 

Recorded in  SWT Prime Site file: 
Curlew, Skylark, Snipe, Jack Snipe, Woodcock, Peregrine, Hobby, Sparrowhawk, Short-eared Owl,  Green Woodpecker, Goldfinch, Speckled Wood Butterfly.

VEG:
(NB. Target notes 1-8 relate to Map 1, and 9-15 to Map 2).
This large upland common contains a wide variety of habitats, including flushes and small basin mires. Most of the western half of the site and the lower northern slopes are covered by Pteridium aquilinum, beneath which occur frequent Agrostis capillaris and Galium saxatile, with Ulex gallii scattered over some areas.

At the summit of Clee Liberty (Map 1) there is an old quarry with associated piles of spoil (1). The stony substrate of the spoil piles is covered by short vegetation, with abundant Festuca ovina, frequent A. capillaris and Nardus stricta, and occassional Vaccinium myrtillus and Hypochaeris radicata. The drier slopes (mostly south-facing) also have Calluna vulgaris, Aira praecox, lichens including Cladonia sp. and mosses including  Andreaea sp.

Basin mires (2) occur in hollows at the base of the old quarry, which contain frequent Juncus effusus, Sphagnum sp., Cirsium palustre and Polytrichum sp., plus Carex echinata, Ranunculus flammula, Eleocharis palustris and Callitriche sp. A small pool (3) has Glyceria declinata, Equisetum fluviatile, Montia fontana and Potamogeton natans. A Black Darter dragonfly, Sympetrum danae, was observed here. Ruins of old quarrying structures (4) also occur nearby.

Along the eastern edge of the site there  are areas of dry heath and acid grassland mosaic, with low-grazed V. myrtillus, N. stricta and A. capillaris frequent,  plus Rumex acetosella, G. saxatile and Juncus squarrosus.  A small amount  of short-cropped Calluna vulgaris also occurs. West of the old quarry and spoil heaps a large area is dominated by stands of J. effusus, amongst which grow C. palustre, Potentilla erecta, J. squarrosus and N. stricta. Sphagnum sp. occurs in wetter areas. In the adjacent area (5) U. gallii is scattered extensively over dry acid grassland.

Further down the hillside (north of the quarried  area) there area a number of acidic flushes with Carex echinata, Sphagnum sp., J. effusus,  Anagallis tenella, Juncus articulatus and Carex demissa. Basic flushes also occur, with Cratoneuron commutatum moss, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Mentha aquatica and Carex flacca. At the time of survey the bracken covering the slopes was tall and dense, and it is likely that other areas of flush occur beneath the bracken. Rock exposures (6) occur above some of the flushes.

A stream runs along part of the northern boundary of the site (7), and the liverwort Conocephalum conicum occurs beside small waterfalls. Bankside vegetation includes frequent Crataegus monogyna  and Corylus avellana, plus Salix cinerea, Alnus glutinosa, Salix alba, Salix fragilis,  Malus sylvestris, Ilex aquifolium and Blechnum spicant. The garden of a derelict cottage (8) adjacent to the stream has Symphoricarpos rivularis and Prunus domestica, plus stands of Urtica dioica and Rubus fruticosus.

Most of the western  half of the common (map 2)  is dominated by P. aquilinum, and in large  areas (9) the bracken appears to be dying or unhealthy, possibly due to having been sprayed. A defunct hedge along the southern boundary (10) has several Laburnum anagyroides, plus C. monogyna  and Fagus sylvatica.

The ancient earthworks of Nordy Bank has short-cropped acidic grassland on its much-trampled ramparts (11), with frequent Hierarcium pilosella and Thymus praecox, plus Campanula rotundifolia, Aira praecox and A. capillaris. A nearby small old quarry (12) has Carlina vulgaris and Oxalis acetosella. ENE of Nordy Bank there is some hummocky terrain, possibly an old spoil heap (13), which has a basic flora, including locally frequent Linum catharticum, plus Trifolium dubium, H. pilosella, Carex caryophyllea and F. ovina. In an adjacent hollow a flushed  area (14) (dry at time of survey) has Juncus bulbosus, Carex flacca, Prunella  vulgaris and Agrostis stolonifera. Two small pools (15) occur west  of Nordy Bank, which appear to have been dug or deepened recently, and these contain  frequent Glyceria sp., plus Ranunculus hederaceus and Lythrum portula.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep and a few horses, with some areas heavily grazed. The track to the summit of Clee Liberty is used by walkers, the Nordy Bank earthworks attracts visitors, and some horseriding occurs. Some areas of the western half of the common appear to have received bracken control management, and further bracken clearance would be beneficial. 

Heather survey summary: 7% of the site  contains heather (C. vulgaris), all of which is  at < 25% cover, and all of which  is damaged (overgrazed  'carpet' type).


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Blackcap, Tree Creeper, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Chaffinch,  Robin, Wren, Woodpigeon, Crow, Magpie.
Fox (scats), Rabbits (scats).
Speckled Wood.

VEG:
The greater part of this common consists of woodland dominated by Betula pendula, which forms a  particularly dense canopy in the western half of the site. A small area in the SW corner of the site (1) is dominated by  Quercus petraea and Acer  pseudoplatanus.  Other tree species are Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium, Malus sylvestris, Sambucus nigra, Sorbus aucuparia (including one  fine coppiced specimen) and a single  Pinus sylvestris. The understorey of the wood contains frequent Lonicera periclymenum, Pteridium aquilinum and Holcus lanatus, plus Anemone nemorosa, Oxalis acetosella (locally frequent), Deschampsia flexuosa, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Conopodium majus,  Digitalis purpurea, Rubus idaeus, Silene dioica, Heracleum sphondylium, Hedera helix and Narcissus sp. The ground flora is sparse beneath the densest birch canopy.

An area adjacent to the track towards the north of the site is dominated by P. aquilinum with scattered B. pendula.

MANAGE:
The common is at present unmanaged. A small amount of dumping has occurred, most of it not  recent. Clearance of birches  in selected areas would benefit the  ground flora.


FAUNA:
Records from EN  files and the 1985 NT survey report include:
Red Grouse, Snipe, Curlew, Teal, Grey Wagtail, Pied Flycatcher, Redstart, Buzzard, Kestrel, Cuckoo, Tree Pipit, Meadow Pipit, Winchat, Raven, Ring Ouzel, Stonechat, Linnet, Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, Mistle Thrush.
Brown Hare, Rabbit, Fox, Common Frog, Trout, Millers Thumb, Green Hairstreak, Beautiful Yellow Underwing, Golden-ringed dragonfly, Black Darter dragonfly, Bembidion prasinum (a ground beetle), Caenopsis waltoni (a weevil), Bombus monticola (Bilberry Bumble-bee), Dysmachus trigonus (a robber-fly), Metasyrphus nitens (a hoverfly), Steatoda phalerata (a spider) and Zenobiella subrufenscens (a snail).

VEG:
The Long Mynd is the largest common in Shropshire, and nearly all of the common land is also an SSSI and SWT Prime Site. The site has been the subject of detailed vegetation surveys during recent years, in particular the English Nature (NCC) Upland Survey of 1983, the National Trust Survey of 1985, and the Agricultural Development and Advisory Service (ADAS) Survey of 1988/89. The following description summarises some of this information, and the vegetation maps are based largely on the ADAS survey, with a small amount of data added from site visits during the present survey.

The Long Mynd is a large isolated plateau rising some 300m above the surrounding countryside. The western edge forms a steep escarpment, whilst the eastern flank contains several steep-sided valleys. The site contains one of the most extensive remaining areas of dry heathland in Shropshire, together with areas of bracken, acid grassland, flushes and pools.

The dry heathland is dominated by Calluna vulgaris and Vaccinium myrtillus. Many areas of heather are managed by cutting, and after cutting V. myrtillus usually becomes dominant, with C. vulgaris re-establishing later. In some places C. vulgaris regeneration is poor, and more stable V. myrtillus heath develops. Other  species recorded in the dry heath areas include Deschampsia flexuosa, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta, Pleurozium schreberi, Hypnum cupressiforme, Dicranum scoparium, Ptilium ciliare and Cladonia sp. Polytrichum juniperum occurs in recently burnt areas.

Large areas of the common are covered by close-grazed acidic grassland dominated by Festuca ovina and Agrostis capillaris, with Rumex acetosella, Luzula campestris, Juncus squarrosus, Digitalis purpurea, Hieracium pilosella, and scattered Ulex gallii  and U. europaeus. Rarer species include Viola lutea, Moenchia erecta, Teesdalia nudicaulis and Sedum forsterianum (on rock outcrops). In some areas the acidic grassland occurs as a mosaic with patches of dry heath. The acid grassland fairways of the golf course on Bodbury Hill, north-west of Church Stretton, are mown, and the greens are maintained.

Several acidic flushes occur on the slopes and in the valleys of the Long Mynd. Juncus effusus, Sphagnum recurvum and Polytrichum commune are frequent, with occasional Drosera rotundiflora on sphagnum hummocks. Anagallis tenella, Hypericum elodes, Pinguicula vulgaris and Aulacomnium palustre also occur. More mesotrophic flushes have frequent Carex demissa, C. nigra, C.  panicea and Drepanocladus revolvens, with Philonotis fontana, Bryum pseudotriquetrum, B. pallens and Campylium stellatum. Chrysosplenium oppositifolium is frequent in flushes on steeper slopes, and spring heads often contain Montia fontana and Ranunculus omiophyllus. Other flush species include Ranunculus flammula, Cardamine pratensis, Caltha palustris and Potamogeton polygonifolius. Oreopteris limbosperma occurs beside streams.

Several small pools occur on the plateau and at the heads of valleys, and species occurring in and at the margins of these include Menyanthes trifoliata, Ranunculus aquatilis, Narthecium ossifragum, P. polygonifolius, Carex rostrata and Eriophorum angustifolium. The uncommon species Littorella uniflora  and Myriophyllum alternifolium also occur.

Small areas with scattered trees occur on some of the lower slopes, with Quercus petraea, Betula pendula, B. pubescens, Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior, Corylus avellana and Crataegus monogyna.

MANAGE:
The ADAS survey of the Long Mynd records that heather dominates 31% of the National Trust owned area of the site (which includes the common land area plus a further 95ha). The ADAS survey habitats map indicates that c. 49% of the CL area has some heather cover.

In 229 quadrats studied in areas of heather by the ADAS survey, 94% showed grazing utilisation above suppressive thresholds. Over 40% of the quadrats had grazing utilisation at least four times suppressive levels. No part of the Long Mynd could be identified where grazing levels were not damaging to the heather.

Three factors were found to be correlated with high levels of grazing, namely sparse heather cover, low heather height and the proximity to palatable grasses. All three factors are both a result of overgrazing as well as a probable cause, thus creating a positive feedback situation, ie. as the heather cover is reduced, so more sheep are attracted to the area, and the heather is eradicated at an ever-increasing rate.

In addition to heather damage the 1985 National Trust survey also recorded other harmful effects to the Long Mynd vegetation caused by too high stocking levels. These were:
(1) Flush vegetation grazed very short and frequently poached, breaking up the bryophyte layer and making the habitat less suitable for species such as Drosera rotundifolia.
(2) Grassland areas frequently poached, particularly on the steeper slopes with thin turf.
(3) Trees and shrubs showing no signs of regeneration.
(4) Gorse being unable to grow beyond low topiary-like cushions.
(5) Bracken invasion encouraged, due to poor regeneration of dwarf shrub heath.

These findings clearly indicate that stocking levels on the Long Mynd need to be reduced, and that a heather management programme is needed for rehabilitation of the heather moorland.

The plateau heather was formerly managed for grouse by extensive burning, but more recently this has mostly been replaced by cutting with a flail-type mower. A series of rectangular strips are cut each year, thus creating a mosaic of stands of different aged heather. Some areas of bracken have been sprayed and cut in an effort to control its spread.

Grouse shooting is let, and the average number of grouse shot per 'bag' has declined in recent years, possibly due to changes in the condition of the heather.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Redstart, Bullfinch, Linnet, Willow Warbler, Yellowhammer, Chaffinch, Great Tit, Pheasant, Hedge Sparrow.
Rabbit, Common Shrew (frequent in long grass in west corner of site).

VEG:
The great majority of this common is dominated by a dense and continuous stand of Pteridium aquilinum, with a few scattered Betula pendula and Sorbus aucuparia. Some saplings of Fagus sylvatica, Pinus sylvestris and Castanea sativa have been planted. Amongst the bracken occur Holcus mollis (frequent), Holcus lanatus, Anthoxanthum odoratum and Agrostis canina, with Galium saxatile, Digitalis purpurea, Hyacinthoides  non-scripta, Conopodium majus and Rubus fruticosus.

The southern boundary of the site consists of a row of trees and scrub, including several large Ilex aquifolium, plus Acer pseudoplatanus, Betula pubescens, Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior, Corylus avellana and a single tall Quercus robur. An area of scrub occurs in the western corner, comprised of Prunus spinosa, C. monogyna, C. avellana, Sambucus nigra, and both Rosa canina and R. arvensis.

There is a track of neutral grassland extending from a gate in the southern boundary, in which Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Heracleum sphondylium and Potentilla anserina are frequent. Adjacent to the road  which runs along the NW boundary this neutral grassland also contains Vicia cracca, Carex spicata, Rumex acetosa, Lathyrus pratensis, Cirsium arvense, Poa pratensis, Cynosurus cristatus, Juncus effusus and Juncus acutiflorus. There is also a small strip of improved grassland verge.

MANAGE:
Bracken dominates almost all of this common and its clearance is a priority. Further tree planting to augment the saplings already planted  would be beneficial.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visits:
Snipe, Wheatear, Kestrel, Raven, Rook, Green Woodpecker, Pied Wagtail, Skylark, Robin, Wren, Crow.
Brown Hare, Fox (scats), Rabbit, Mole (hills).
Silver Y moth, Broom Moth Caterpillar.

Recorded in SSSI file:
Whinchat, Linnet.

VEG:
Clee Hill common is the second largest common in Shropshire and contains two SSSI's. The range of habitats include valuable areas of basic flush, acidic flush and boulder scree, plus large expanses of bracken, acidic grassland and Juncus-dominated marshy grassland. The size of the site, plus the amount of previously recorded information available for one distinct area (Titterstone Clee SSSI) means that it is convenient to describe the vegetation of the northern and southern areas separately.

Northern Area, including Titterstone Clee SSSI (Map 1)
A large proportion of this area is an SSSI (see introductory map), and the following description includes both previously recorded information and data gathered during the site visits.

The area is visually dominated by the summit of Titterstone Clee Hill, which at 533m is only 7m lower than the highest hill in Shropshire (Brown Clee Hill, CL 20). On the west facing side of the summit there are large accumulations of stable boulder scree (1) and (2). Ferns growing amongst the boulders include Gymnocarpium dryopteris, Dryopteris oreades, Phegopteris connectilis, Polystichum setiferum, Cryptogramma crispa and Athyrium filix-femina, and lichens include Cladonia floerkinana, C. chlorophaea, Lecidea macrocarpa, Hypogymnia physodes and Cornicularis aculeata. Moss species recorded here include upland species which are rare in Shropshire, such as Racomitrium fasciculare, R. lanuginosum and Andreaea rupestris. The Fir Clubmoss Huperzia selago has also been recorded. Smaller patches of scree also occur on the north and north-east facing slopes, and there is a long line of scree around the north-eastern flank of the summit (3), which is the remains of the ramparts of an Iron Age Hillfort.

The summit area itself is dominated by low-grazed hummocks of Vaccinium myrtillus, with Nardus stricta and Agrostis capillaris frequent. On the northern and eastern flanks below the summit V. myrtillus forms mosaics with acid grassland, and patches of Ulex gallii occur. Calluna vulgaris has also been recorded. An extensive area on the southern side of the summit (4) has been quarried in the past for dolerite granite, known locally as 'dhustone'. Quarried rock faces occur and the old spoil heaps have frequent Festuca ovina and A. capillaris, with Botrychium lunaria and Catapodium rigidum also recorded. Cars park in a flat area (5), south of which are the ruins of old quarry buildings. Beneath the summit area large expanses of the slopes are dominated by Pteridium aquilinum, and on the south-eastern slopes (6) an area is dominated by N. stricta and Juncus effusus.

In addition to the boulder scree, the most valuable habitats on Titterstone Clee Hill are the flushes. Several basic flushes occur along the north-eastern border of the site, and others occur adjacent to the western border, and south and east of the hill's summit. Species recorded include Wahlenbergia hederacea, which is very rare in Shropshire, plus Triglochin palustris, Alisma plantago-aquatica, Scutellaria minor, Mentha aquatica, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Succisa pratensis, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Lotus uliginosus, Cardamine pratensis, Veronica beccabunga and Isolepis setacea.

Species recorded in more acidic flushes include Drosera rotundifolia, Carex echinata, Narthecium ossifragum, Potamogeton polygonifolius, Anagallis tenella, Pedicularis sylvatica, P. palustris, Mimulus guttatus, Lythrum portula and Hypericum tetrapterum.

An area of woodland occurs on the slopes above and adjacent to the Shirley Brook in the north-east corner of the common land (7). Alnus glutinosa is frequent alongside the stream, and Betula pubescens is common on the slopes. Other species include Sorbus aucuparia, Ilex aquifolium and Corylus avellana. Salix pentandra occurs beside Benson's Brook, which has eroded a deep gully near Horseditch, south of the summit area.

Southern Area (Maps 2, 3 and 4)
(NB. Target notes 8-15 relate to map 2, 16-20 to Map 3, and 21-26 to Map 4).
Extensive areas of this part of the common are covered by acid grassland in which N. stricta is dominant, often with frequent J. effusus, A. capillaris, Juncus squarrosus and Galium saxatile. Other species include Rumex acetosella, Potentilla erecta, Danthonia decumbens and Anthoxanthum odoratum. Ulex gallii is scattered over many areas, and locally abundant. Heaps of old mining spoil, some of them quite large, occur in many areas of the site. The slopes of these are mostly covered by F. ovina, with N. stricta frequent on the tops, and other species include Cladonia sp., Cirsium vulgare and G. saxatile.

A large stone quarry occurs near the western boundary of the common (8), which at the time of survey also appeared to be mining opencast coal. North of the quarry, further areas had been much disturbed by machinery (9), or had their vegetation completely removed (10), presumably in preparation for further quarrying. Close to these areas occurs a patch of dry heath (11) dominated by V. myrtillus and U. gallii, with frequent Cladonia sp.. South of the quarry is a recently man-made reservoir (12), and a small lake occurs at the bottom of an old quarry (13).

An area of flushes and J. effusus-dominated marshy grassland occurs adjacent to steep slopes of spoil on the eastern side of the quarry (14). Carex panicea and Cirsium palustre are frequent, with other species including Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Juncus inflexus, Myosotis secunda, C. pratensis, Ranunculus flammula and Sphagnum sp..

Towards the eastern boundary of the site is a boulder field (15) and (16), where many large boulders are exposed at the surface, separated by patches of acidic grassland with frequent A. capillaris, F. ovina and R. acetosella. Lichens are frequent on the rocks.

Close to the north-west boundary of the region covered by Map 3, there is an area dominated  by J. squarrosus (17), with frequent V. myrtillus and N. stricta, plus Molinia caerucea and Polytrichum sp.. A nearby pool (18) has Lythrum portula and Carex demissa at its margins, occurring in gaps in stands of J. effusus. The latter species is also abundant in a marshy patch (19), with Montia fontana, Glyceria declinata, R. flammula, Galium palustre, L. portula and Sphagnum sp.. The presence of P. polygonifolius and Ranunculus hederaceus suggests that the water level here is often higher than it was at the time of survey. A Salix caprea occurs nearby. At the eastern tip of the site (20) an area of dry heath has frequent U. gallii and overgrazed C. vulgaris, with N. stricta, M. caerulea and J. effusus.

Near the southern boundary of the common (Map 4) the Corn Brook flows in a deep gully known as Cornbrook Dingle (21). Epilobium brunnescens is frequent on rocks beside the stream, and Blechnum spicant, D. purpurea, C. palustre, Prunella vulgaris and Erica cinerea occur on the banks. Trees near the stream include frequent Crataegus monogyna, plus Corylus avellana, Prunus spinosa, Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior, Ilex aquifolium and Salix alba. Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum occurs beside a spring near the track at the southern end of Cornbrook Dingle

East of Cornbrook Dingle, U. gallii is frequent over large areas of acidic grassland which is dominated by A. capillaris and N. stricta. C. vulgaris is occasional, growing amongst the gorse dumps where it receives some protection from grazing sheep. Small flushes and rills in this region have Anagallis tenella, H. vulgaris, C. demissa, Juncus inflexus, V. beccabunga, Mentha aquatica and Apium nodiflorum.

West of Cornbrook Dingle large areas of the slopes are dominated by P. aquilinum (22). Near the centre of this region is a valley mire (23), consisting of flushes with wet heath on either side. The flushes contain frequent Sphagnum sp. with Narthecium ossifragum, Drosera rotundifolia, Viola palustris, H. vulgaris, P. polygonifolius, C. demissa, C. panicea, Juncus acutiflorus, J. bulbosus and Eriophorum angustifolium. Hypericum elodes, which is uncommon in Shropshire, occurs at the northern end of one of the flushes. The adjacent patches of wet heath have frequent Erica tetralix, U. gallii and Sphagnum sp., plus C. panicea, M. Caerulea, E. angustifolium and N. stricta.

Near the southern tip of the site a tract of acid grassland with scattered U. gallii has occasional E. cinerea growing amongst the gorse dumps. North of this is an area of recently disturbed ground (25), possibly bulldozed. East of the valley mire there are old spoil heaps (26), where Cirsium acaule occurs in one of its rare Shropshire localities. Other species here are Carlina vulgaris, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Campanula rotundifoliaa, Linum catharticum, Carex flacca, Thymus praecox, Lotus corniculatus, Hieracium pilosella and Danthonia decumbens.

MANAGE:
A large proportion of Clee Hill common is heavily grazed by sheep, plus a few cattle and horses. Heather survey summary: 0.5% of the site has some heather (C. vulgaris, E. cinerea and E. tetralix), all of which is at < 25% cover. 0.3% is damaged 'topiary' or 'drumstick' C. vulgaris, and the only undamaged C. vulgaris and E. cinerea is restricted to growing within gorse clumps, where it is less accessible to stock. Most U. gallii clumps are also heavily browsed topiary forms. The dominance of bracken in some areas may also be a result of overgrazing.

Off-road motorcycling is frequent over the old quarry spoil heaps below the summit of Titterstone Clee Hill, and also occurs in the southern area. An operational quarry covers a large area in the central part of the common, and some dumping of old tyres etc. has occurred below spoil heaps near the flush (14). Recently disturbed ground was also apparent in the southern part of the common (25). At the time of survey the Corn Brook had a black sludgey deposit in it near the Corn Brook bridge, possibly caused by effluent pollution.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Pied Flycatcher, Tree Creeper, Green Woodpecker, Kestrel, Buzzard, Cuckoo, Yellowhammer, Willow Warbler, Tree Pipit, Swift, Chaffinch, Jay, Blackbird.
Fox (scat), Rabbit, Grey Squirrel, Mole (hills).
Wall butterfly.

VEG:
A variety of habitats occur on this common amongst the hills east of the Long Mynd. The most interesting areas are the flushes, two of which are quite sizeable. They contain frequent Juncus effusus, Cirsium palustre and Cardamine pratensis, plus Angallis tenella, Hydrocotyle vulgaris (locally frequent), Ranunculus flammula, Eleocharis palustris, Myosotis secunda, Mentha aquatica, Galium palustre, Montia fontana, Stellaria alsine, Veronica beccabunga, Juncus acutiflorus, Ajuga reptans, Briza media, Sphagnum sp., and five sedges: Carex echinata, C. panicea, C. pulicaris, C. demissa and C. nigra.

There is an area of Alnus glutinosa carr at (1), with Filipendula ulmaria, Caltha palustris, Equisetum palustre, C. palustre, C. pratensis, R. flammula and J. effusus. A. glutinosa is also frequent alongside the stream which runs through the site, where Sorbus aucuparia and Oxalis acetosella also occur. The area of deciduous woodland at the western end of the common contains frequent Fraxinus excelsior, Sambucus nigra and Crataegus monogyna, with Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium, Ulmus glabra (rare) and Acer pseudoplatanus. The ground flora is very sparse due to sheep grazing, with only Urtica dioica and Cerastium glomerata frequent. The woodland at the edge of the common at (2), alongside the track, has Tilia x europaea, Acer campestre, Malus sylvestris and Quercus robur.

Large areas of the hillsides are dominated by Pteridium aquilinum, but there is also an area of close-grazed acid grassland at (3), partly amongst scattered C. monogyna. This grassland has frequent Festuca ovina, Rumex acetosella and Anthoxanthum odoratum, plus Nardus stricta, Galium saxatile, Holcus lanatus, Potentilla erecta, Digitalis purpurea and Conopodium majus (rare). In places the soil is very thin above the bedrock, and these areas contain an interesting community with frequent Aira praecox, plus the uncommon species Moenchia erecta and Teesdalia nudicaulis, and Filago minima, Vulpia bromoides, Veronica arvensis, Aphanes arvensis, Hieracium pilosella, Thymus praecox, Lotus corniculatus and Teucrium scorodonia. Ulex gallii dominates an area of hillside in the western portion of the common

MANAGE:
The common is heavily grazed by sheep, and this is likely to be preventing regeneration of tree species in the areas of woodland. There is a small dump at (4), and horseriding occurs along the track.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Snipe, Curlew, Skylark, Meadow Pipit, Linnet, Swallow, Rook, Cuckoo, Crow.
Brown Hare, Fox (scat).

VEG:
This upland common occurs within an SSSI and contains a large area of wet heath and sizeable flushes, plus dry heath, scrub and small pools. The wet heath is dominated by mature Calluna vulgaris in good condition, with frequent Juncus squarrosus, Sphagnum sp., Polytrichum sp. and Cladonia sp. and locally frequent Molinia caerulea, Nardus stricta, and Vaccinium myrtillus. Other species include Erica tetralix, Carex panicea, Carex binervis, Eriophorum angustifolium, E. vaginatum, Potentilla erecta, Deschampsia flexuosa, Sorbus aucuparia (occasional saplings) and Poa annua (growing from cow pats).

Several acidic flushes drain down towards the lower ground along the southern boundary of the common. Juncus effusus and J. acutiflorus are frequent in these, and there also occur Carex nigra, Sphagnum sp. and Polytrichum sp.. Flush (1) on the eastern side of the common is particularly rich, and species here include Menyanthes trifoliata, Viola palustris, Ranunculus omiophyllus, Montia fontana, Stellaria alsine, Glyceria fluitans and Cardamine pratensis.

Shallow pools occur at (2), surrounded by marshy ground dominated by Juncus effusus. Glyceria fluitans is frequent in the open water, and Juncus bulbosus at the margins. The flora here is not diverse, but the area provides a good habitat for waders, including Snipe which were observed during the site visit.

North of the area of wet heath occurs an area of dry heath which is also dominated by mature C. vulgaris, and has frequent N. stricta, plus D. flexuosa, V. myrtillus, J. squarrosus, C. binervis, Galium saxatile, P. erecta and Luzula campestris. S aucuparia saplings are occasional, and a single Ilex aquifolium sapling was also seen. Patches of acid grassland occur near the western boundary of the common, and these have frequent N. stricta, plus Festuca ovina, D. flexuosa and G. saxatile. Pteridium aquilinum is scattered over some areas.

In the NW region of the common is an area of hummocky terrain containing a mosaic of wet heath, dry heath  and acid grassland communities.

Patches of Ulex europaeus scrub are scattered in the western half of the common, and a hedge along part of the western boundary contains frequent Betula pubescens and Crataegus monogyna, plus Prunus spinosa and Ilex aquifolium.

MANAGE:
The site is grazed by sheep and cattle.

Heather survey summary: 93% of the site has some heather (abundant Calluna vulgaris, with uncommon Erica tetralix). 86% of the site has heather at > 25% cover, whilst 7% has < 25% cover. At the time of the survey, the heather appeared to be in good condition.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Skylark, Chaffinch, Robin, Jackdaw.

VEG:
Spoad Turbary consists of a flat square area of improved sheep-grazed grassland. Lolium perenne is dominant, and other species include Trifolium repens, Poa annua, Ranunculus repens, Bellis perennis, Plantago lanceolata, Cirsium arvense, C. vulgaris and Rumex obtusifolius. 

Hedges dominated by Crataegus monogyna occur on all sides except the south. The hedge on the eastern side has scattered Ilex aquifolium, Fagus sylvatica, Fraxinus excelsior, Cytisus scoparius and Rubus idaeus, and Oxalis acetosella occurs on the hedgebank. A single Salix caprea tree stands in the hedge near the north-west corner.

MANAGE:
The sheep-grazed grassland is improved, and the hedges are trimmed.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Curlew, Reed Bunting, Whitethroat, Green Woodpecker, Blackcap, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Yellowhammer, Pheasant, Jay, Wren.
Mole (hills near south tip of site).
Large Heath, Speckled Wood, Small Copper, Small Tortoiseshell, Fox moth.

Wem Moss is an important entomological site. It is one of the few known breeding localities for the south-eastern race of the Large Heath butterfly Coenonympha tullia subsp. philoxenus, plus a number of uncommon moths have been recorded, including the Silvered Marble Argyroplace micana. The site has a rich dragonfly fauna, including the uncommon White-faced dragonfly Leucorrhinia dubia. Both the Bog Brush Cricket Metrioptera brachyptera and the Fen Spider Dolomedes fimbriatus have been recorded, and other vertebrate records include Snipe, Hare, Rabbit, Fox, Adders (frequent), Common Frog, Common Toad and Common Lizard.

VEG:
An important SSSI site containing a valuable area of raised bog, surrounded by a wooded lagg area. There is much information available concerning the site, and the following description includes some of this, together with information gathered during the site visit.

The raised bog (1)  has small hollows in the surface, some caused by old peat workings. Erica tetralix, Molinia caerulia and Calluna vulgaris are frequent, with other species including Narthecium ossifragum,  Rhynocospora alba, Vaccinium oxycoccos, Andromeda polyfolia, Dactylorhiza maculata, Sphagnum cuspidatum, S. papillosum and S. tenellum. Wem Moss supports all three British species of sundew - Drosera rotundifolia, D. anglica, and D. intermedia. Myrica gale is frequent, and Betula spp. saplings are locally abundant, particularly in area (2).

Transitional areas in between the raised bog and the wooded lagg have frequent M. caerulea and E. tetralix, with Potentilla palustris, Sphagnum palustre, S. fimbriatum and S. plumulosum. The area (3) is dominated by tussocks of M. caerulea with M. gale and E. tetralix. M. gale grows particularly tall in area (4), where Rubus fruticosus, Salix cinerea and Betula pubescens also occur. Other species recorded from the bog include Osmunda regalis, Cirsium dissectum, Hydrocotyle vulgaris and Plantanthera bifolia.

The wooded lagg (5) surrounding the bog contains frequent Betula  pendula and B. pubescens, plus Alnus glutinosa, Frangula alnus, Salix cinerea, Salix fragilis  and Ilex aquifolium. The ground flora includes Viola palustris, Dryopteris dilatata, Corydalis claviculata, Geranium robertianum, Cirsium palustre and locally frequent Urtica dioica.

The marshy grassland in area (6) has frequent Lotus uliginosus, Angelica sylvestris, Centaura nigra, Rumex acetosa  and Holcus lanatus, plus Lychnis floscuculi, Valeriana officinalis, Vicia cracca, Potentilla palustris and D. maculata. In area (7) there is also locally dominant Filipendula ulmaria, Deschampsia cespitosa, Stellaria  graminea, Juncus inflexus and J. effusus. A pool occurs in a ditch along the boundary in the northern region of the site, where Hotonia palustris has been recorded.

MANAGE:
The  site  is managed by the Shropshire Wildlife Trust, and a SWT and English Nature management plan is seeking to  implement a management regime related to that of the nearby Fenns, Whixall and Bettisfield Mosses SSSI. Some cattle grazing occurs, and some low wire fencing is present on the common. The eastern lagg has received some effluent drainage from a nearby farm. Encroachment by birch saplings is frequent on the raised bog, particularly in the northern part of the site.

Heather survey summary: 61% of the site has some heather (C. vulgaris and E. tetralix) 56% has > 25% heather cover, whilst 5% has < 25%  cover. No damaged heather was recorded during the survey.


FAUNA:
Recorded during  site visits:
Green Woodpecker, Buzzard, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Wren, Yellowhammer, Swift, Woodpigeon, Magpie.
Mole (hills), Rabbits.
Slow Worm.
Dark Green Fritillary, Red Admiral, Ringlet, Small Skipper, Hedge Brown, Meadow Brown, Speckled Wood, Small Heath, Five-spot Burnet moth, Broad-bodied Chaser, Libellula  depressa (dragonfly).

Recorded in SSSI file:
Brown Argus.

VEG:
The common land of Llyclys Hill occurs partly within the Llanymynech and Llynclys Hills SSSI, and consequently there is much recorded information concerning the site.  The following  description includes some of this, together with data gathered during the site visits.

An exceptionally valuable habitat on the common  is unimproved calcareous grassland, which is scarce in  Shropshire. Much of this grassland has been lost beneath encroaching scrub, but fragments still occur scattered over the site, with the largest  number occurring  in the northern region. Grassland beside tracks in areas (1) and (2) is particularly rich, containing many spikes of Anacamptis pyramidalis, plus Rhinanthus minor, Clinopodium vulgare, Knautia arvensis, Briza media, Primula veris, Vicia cracca, Leucanthemum vulgare, Carex flacca, Centaurea nigra, Medicago lupulina, Lotus corniculatus and  Danthonia decumbens.  Listera ovata, Tamus communis and Cornus sanguinea  occur amongst adjacent scrub.

Area (3) has anthills dominated by Thymus praecox, whilst the surrounding turf contains frequent Solidago virgauria, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Linum catharticum and C. flacca, plus Blackstonia  perfoliata,  Helianthemum nummularium, Leontodon hispidus, Sanguisorba minor,  A. pyramidalis, Ononis repens and Brachypodium sylvaticum. Area (4) consists of calcareous grassland on old quarry slopes, and holds many of the preceding species, plus Origanum  vulgare and Carlina vulgaris. Other species occurring on small patches of calcareous grassland on the common include Euphrasia sp., Veronica chamaedrys, Hieracium pilosella, Carex caryophyllea  and Polygala vulgaris.

Recent felling of scrub  and trees has occurred  in area (5) at the  southern tip  of the common, and  the  grassland  here has frequent D. fuchsii, C. nigra and Agrimonia  eupatoria, plus Hypericum maculatum, Prunella vulgaris and B. sylvaticum. Succisa pratensis occurs  nearby. Other species recorded previously from  calcareous grassland on  the site include Coeloglossum viride, Picris hieracioides, Cirsium acaule, Gentianella amarella, Carduus nutans, Erodium circutarium and Pimpinella saxifraga.

There are areas of grassland near the centre of the common at (6) and (7) where the vegetation indicates more neutral conditions, possibly due to surface leaching. These areas have frequent Galium verum,  L. corniculatus and C. nigra, plus H. maculatum, D. fuchsii and Euphrasia sp.. Botrychum lunaria and Ophioglossum vulgatum have also been recorded. In area (8) Hypericum pulchrum is frequent, with B. sylvaticum, C. nigra, Rubus fruticosus and scattered Pteridium aquilinum. A small pool at (9)  has Ranunculus peltatus, Juncus articulatus and J. inflexus, and a male Libellula depressa dragonfly was observed here.

A large portion of the common is dominated by dense thickets of scrub and gorse with scattered bracken (10). Crataegus monogyna, R. fruticosus and Ulex gallii are frequent, with Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra, Fraxinus excelsior, Salix caprea, Clematis vitalba and Lonicera periclymenum. At the edges of the scrub occur Eupatorium cannabinum, Rubus idaeus, T. communis and A. eupatoria.

Woodland in area (11) is dominated by Betula pendula, with occasional Quercus robur, Acer pseudoplatanus and C. monogyna.  An old quarry at (12) has frequent Corylus avellana, F. excelsior and C. monogyna, plus C. sanguinea, Sanicula europaea, Mercurialis perennis, L. ovata, D. fuchsii and Phyllitus scolopendrium.

The wooded slope along the north-west side of the common (13) has B. pendula dominant in the northern and central areas, with F. excelsior becoming dominant towards the south. Coppiced C. avellana is frequent, with A. pseudoplatanus, Ilex aquifolium, C. monogyna and Taxus baccata. Ground flora here includes Daphne laureola, Circaea lutetiana, S. europaea, M. perennis, Fragaria vesca, Hedera helix and B. sylvaticum. Viburnum opulus, Melica uniflora, Paris quadrifolia and Oxalis acetosella have also been recorded.

A cliff-face above the wood at the southern end of the common (14) has Tilia cordata, Teucrium scorodonia and Knautia arvensis, and Sorbus anglica has been recorded.

MANAGE:
Tree-felling and bracken clearance have occurred, and the pond has been deepened. Much horseriding occurs on the tracks, and limited signs of shooting were apparent. Protection of the remaining areas of calcareous grassland from further scrub encroachment is important, and scrub clearance in some other areas would be beneficial.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Moorhen, Mallard, Canada Goose and goslings (in field on west side of CL), Long-tailed Tit, Willow Warbler, Song Thrush, Buzzard, Chiffchaff, Wren, Blackbird, Wood Pigeon.
Rabbits (scats).

VEG:
A large proportion of the site consists of carr vegetation, with Salix cinerea abundant and Alnus glutinosa frequent. Salix fragilis is frequent at the southern end of the site, with some large trees near the south-west corner. Ground vegetation in the carr includes Carex remota, C. pseudocyperus, Filipendula ulmaria, Lycopus europaeus, Iris pseudocorus, Caltha palustris, Solanum dulcamara, Mentha aquatica, Alisma plantago-aquatica, Dryopteris dilatata, Viola palustris and Deschampsia cespitosa. Damp woodland along the eastern edge of the carr (1) contains Quercus robur, A. glutinosa, Corylus avellana, Sambucus nigra and Acer pseudoplatanus, with Rubus fruticosus (frequent), S. dulcamara, Holcus lanatus, Juncus effusus, Cirsium palustre, Digitalis purpurea, Silene dioica, Stachys sylvatica, Urtica dioica, Arrhenatherum elatius, Ranunculus repens and Heracleum sphondylium. In the northern half of this strip of woodland occur Mercurialis perennis, Milium effusum, Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum, Ajuga reptans and Arctium minus.

The hedge (2) along the eastern boundary has frequent Crataegus monogyna and C. avellana, with Prunus spinosa, Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus sp., Lonicera periclymenum, S. dioica and Dryopteris filix-mas.

There is an excellent area of species-rich marsh and swamp vegetation at (3), with patches of Menyanthes trifoliata, Potentilla palustris, Typha latifolia, Iris pseudacorus and J. effusus, plus  Scutellaria galericulata, Valeriana officinalis, Carex acutifornis, Filipendula ulmaria, Cardamine pratensis, Carex nigra, Epilobium hirsutum and Juncus acutiflorus.

Further species recorded from the SSSI include Carex elata, C. elongata, C. rostrata, C. vesicaria, Ranunculus flammula, Equisetum fluviatile, Bidens sp., Galium palustre, Agrostis stolonifera, Alisma plantago-aquatica, Circaea lutetiana and Senecio aquatica.

MANAGE:
The site appears to be unmanaged, although the boundary hedges and fences are maintained to prevent stock straying from surrounding fields. Some clearance of Salix scrub from around the edges of area (3) might benefit the excellent marsh and swamp vegetation by preventing overshadowing.

There has been a small amount of dumping, and signs of shooting were apparent.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Coot (including young), Canada Goose (including young), Mallard (including young), Reed Bunting, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Great Tit, Chaffinch, Woodpigeon, Blue Tit, Blackbird, Wren, Robin, Jackdaw.
Rabbits (including one black one), Grey Squirrel. Speckled Wood.

Many additional bird species have been recorded, including Great Crested Grebe, Shoveler, Woodcock, and Sparrowhawk, and 90 species of moth have also been recorded. The site is undoubtedly  of great value to a wide range of wildlife.

VEG:
The site contains a lake, smaller pools and several areas of wetland, plus deciduous woodland and acid grassland. The most outstanding features of the common are the wetland habitats. Marshy areas around the lake (1) contain frequent Polygonium amphibium, Myosotis scorpoides, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Carex pseudocyperus and Cirsium palustre, plus Veronica scutellata, Potentilla palustris, Ranunculus peltatus, Eleocharis palustris, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Lycopus europaeus, Mentha aquatica, Equisetum fluviatile, Apium inundatum, Glyceria fluitans, Iris pseudacorus, Ranunculus flammula, Solanum dulcamara, Juncus effusus, Anagallis tenella, Agrostis canina and the uncommon grass Alopecurus aequalis is locally frequent. Patches of Salix cinerea occur beside the lake, and there are stands of Typha latifolia. The slopes of the lake at (2) nearest the main car parking area, have been much affected by trampling, and are in places devoid of vegetation.

Near the south-west side of the lake area (3) has frequent J. effusus and P. palustris, plus scattered T. latifolia, and area (4) has abundant Epilobium hirsutum and Equisetum fluviatile. North of the lake the marsh (5) contains frequent Carex pseudocyperus, Hydrocotyle vulgaris  and Galium palustre, plus Carex rostrata, Elescharis palustris, Mentha aquatica, Potentilla palustris,  Cirsium  palustre and Lychnis flos-cuculi. The adjacent area (6) is mostly drier with frequent Potentilla  anserina and  Cirsium arvense, but there is a patch of Carex vesicularia, plus I. pseudacorus, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Polygonum amphibium and A. aequalis.

There is a fine pool at (7) with Menyanthes trifoliata, Potamogeton natans, Ranunculus sp.(water crowfoot), H. vulgaris, Mentha aquatica, L. europaeus, E.  palustris, Ranunculus flammula, Alisma plantago-aquatica and A. aequalis. Southwest of the pool, area (8) has abundant T. latifolia, with frequent M. trifoliata, J. effusus, Galium palustre, S. dulcamara, M. aquatica and C. pseudocyperus.

At the northern tip of the site the pool (9) contains Hottonia palustris, and the surrounding marsh has P. palustris, R. flammula and L. europaeus. There is an extensive stand of T. latifolia at (10) with M. scorpoides, E. fluviatile, H. vulgaris, Sphagnum sp., P. palustris and occasional Dryopteris carthusiana.

A very unusual habitat occurs at (11), namely a small quaking bog or "schwingmoor", which consists of a thick raft of Sphagnum floating on a hidden layer of water. Droseraa rotundifolia and Eriophorum angustifolium occur in the Sphagna, with Molinia caerulea, Polytrichum sp., and J. effusus also present. East of the lake there is a small marshy area at (12), surrounded by Salix cinerea. P. amphibium and P. palustris are abundant, and M. trifoliata, Carex riparia, C. pseudocyperus, M. aquatica, S. dulcamara and A. plantago-aquatica also occur. S. cinerea also overshadows the small marsh and pool at (13), where I. pseudacorus is frequent, with L. europaeus,  P. palustris, Hottonia palustris, M. trifoliata and Apium nodiflorum.

The equally small marsh and pool at (14) also contains H. palustris, plus Ranunculus sceleratus, I. pseudacorus, P. palustris and  J. effusus. Salix fragilis occurs with S. cinerea around the margins. Other wetland and aquatic species recorded from Brown Moss SSSI include Scirpus fluitans, Luronium natans, Lemna minor, Lemna trisulca, Sparganium spp., Bidens cernua, Sphagnum recurvum, S. cuspidatum and Polytrichum commune. The majority of the site in between the wetland areas is covered  by deciduous woodland. Betula pubescens and Quercus robur are frequent, with Sorbus aucuparia, Ilex aquifolium,  Sambucus nigra, Populus tremula, Fraxinus excelsior, Crataegus monogyna, Acer pseudoplatanus  and Alnus glutinosa, the latter most frequent near marshes in the northern half of the site. A. pseudoplatanus occurs along the eastern boundary, Fagus sylvatica is present south of the  lake,  and there are a few Pinus sylvestris in the northern half. Ground flora in  the woodland includes Rubus fruticosus, Pteridium  aquilinum, Lonicera periclymenum, Rosa canina, Digitalis purpurea, Holcus mollis, Molinia caerulea, Deschampsia flexuosa, Corydalis claviculata, Hedera helix, Dryopteris dilatata, Silene dioica and Hyacinthoides non-scripta.

Area (15) is more open, with acid grassland and scattered B. pubescens and S. aucuparia, mostly less than 3m high. Deschampsia flexuousa is frequent, with occasional Carex pilulifera, Calluna vulgaris, Juncus squarrosus, J.  effusus and D. purpurea.

MANAGE:
The site is much used by the public for walking and  angling, and some areas have been eroded by trampling. The shore of the lake in area (2) near the main car park has been particularly badly affected, with much loss of vegetation. There is a signpost banning public access to the island in the main lake, due to its value as a wildlife refuge, but  tracks across the narrow  channel separating it from the shore suggest that this regulation is not always heeded.

A management plan has been drawn up by the management committee,  with the purpose of developing a strategy for the site that will  reconcile the sometimes conflicting interests of nature conservation  and  informal recreation, including angling.

Heather survey summary: 6% of the site has some heather (C. vulgaris), all of which is at <25% cover and undamaged.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Heron (Heronry on island (10)),  Coot (including young), Great Crested Grebe (breeding), Mute Swan, Canada Goose, Mallard, Moorhen (including young), Long-tailed Tit, Blackbird (including young),  Robin.
Rabbit.
Common Frog.

VEG:
The southern region of the site contains  some fine wetland habitats. There are  three  areas of sallow carr which are dominated by Salix cinerea. Beneath the sallows are Solanum dulcamara, Lycopus europaeus, Caltha palustris, Iris pseudacorus, Deschampsia cespitosa, Urtica dioica and Dryopteris dilatata. There is a patch of Menyanthes trifoliata at the edge of the lake (1).

South of the carr  there is an excellent area of herb-rich marsh, with frequent Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Potentilla palustris, Scutellaria galericulata, I. pseudacorus and Cirsium palustre, plus Angelica sylvestris, Dryopteris carthusiana, Rumex acetosa, and Deschampsia flexuosa. Around the margins of two small pools (2) and (3) there are also Ranunculus flammula, Stellaria alsine, Myosotis scorpoides, Lycopus europaeus and Juncus effusus.

Area (4) is dominated by a dense stand of Phalaris arundinacea, amongst which occur S. dulcamara, C. palustre, J. effusus, I. pseudacorus, Filipendulaa ulmaria, Epilobium hirsutum and Caltha palustris.

There is a strip of woodland (5) bordering the wetland areas, which has  frequent mature Acer pseudoplatanus, plus Alnus glutinosa, Fagus sylvatica, Ilex aquifolium, Corylus avellana, Pinus sylvestris, and  a single Castanea sativa and several tall Salix fragilis near the lake. The ground beneath the trees is heavily shaded, with locally frequent Urtica dioica, a patch of Rubus idaeus, and Mercurialis perennis carpetting near (6).
 
There is a length of mown grassland with a tarmac carpark in area (7), and Populas x canadensis and Salix x sepulcralis have  been planted  alternately along the edge of a fence bordering this area. There is further mown grassland near the lake at (8), and the  narrow strip of woodland bordering the lake here has frequent tall S. fragilis and Fraxinus excelsior, with A. glutinosa, Salix caprea, A. pseudoplatanus, Malus sylvestris, Cornus sanguinea, Quercus sp., Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna and Rubus fruticosus. There are also single  planted specimens of Robinia  pseudacacia, Fagus sylvatica var. purpurea and Aesculus hippocastanum. The sparse lakeside marginal vegetation includes M. scorpoides, S.  dulcamara, and M. trifoliata.

Area (9) consists of mown amenity grassland, flowerbeds and gravel paths.

MANAGE:
Some  felling of alders has occurred near the lake, and the pools (2) and (3) have probably been artificially excavated for conservation purposes. The grassland  along the western edge of the site is mown,  and the  northern areas of the site near the lake are much used for informal recreation. Some patches of grass have been eroded bare of vegetation, including an area probably used by roosting waterfowl. There  is a fenced off water pumping facility at (11).


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visits:
Snipe, Wheatear, Swallow, Pied Wagtail, Kestrel, Raven, Meadow Pipit,  Blackbird, Willow Warbler, Skylark, Yellowhammer, Woodpigeon.
Badger, Brown Hare, Rabbit, Mole (hills).
Common Frog.
Meadow Brown, Small Tortoisehell, Small Heath, Green-veined White, Silver Y Moth, Golden-ringed Dragonfly, Cordulegaster boltonii.

VEG:
This large common contains a variety of habitats, including some fine flushes and valley mires. Extensive areas are covered by dense Pteridium aquilinum, amongst which occur patches of dry acidic grassland containing frequent Agrostis capillaris and Festuca ovina, plus Rumex acetosella, Galium saxatile and Campanula rotundifolia. Hieracium pilosella, Thymus praecox and Aira praecox occur on well-drained steeper slopes.

The summit ridge of Stapeley  Hill, which occurs to the east of the track that bisects the common, contains areas of low-grazed dry heath  communities. Area  (1) consists of a mosaic of short-cropped Vaccinium myrtillus and acid grassland, with frequent Deschampsia flexuosa,  F. ovina and Cladonia sp. lichen, plus Nardus stricta and occasional Ulex gallii. In areas (2) and (3) low-grazed Calluna vulgaris occurs amongst the V. myrtillus  and abundant N. stricta, and there are smaller areas of dry  heath dominated by either V. myrtillus or C. vulgaris. In area (4) adjacent to the track both U. gallii and V. myrtillus are frequent amongst patches of acid grassland, which also contain Potentilla erecta. The south-east facing slopes of Stapeley Hill (5) and (6) contain areas where U. gallii is abundant.

In the north-eastern  part of the common acidic flushes occur (7). These contain frequent  Carex panicea, Sphagnum sp.  and Juncus acutiflorus,  plus Narthecium ossifragum, Hydrocotyle vulgaris,  Lotus uliginosus, Carex  pulicaris, C. demissa, Myosotis secunda, Succisa pratensis, Erica tetralix, Cirsium palustre, Cardamine pratensis and Ranunculus flammula. To the north and south of the flushes are areas of wet heath and marshy grassland (8) and (9), with E. tetralix, C. vulgaris  and Sphagnum sp. occasional  to frequent, and frequent N. stricta, Agrostis canina, Danthonia decumbens, P. erecta, C. panicea and Polytrichum sp. Other  species include Juncus conglomeratus, Molinia caerulea, Carex echinata, Polygala serpyllifolia, Juncus squarrosus, and frequent but scattered U. gallii.

Marshy grassland in  areas (10)  and (11) is dominated by N. stricta, with M. caerulea,  J. effusus, F. ovina, Polytrichum sp. and A. canina.  In the south-east of the site, area (12) has similar species, plus D. decumbens, P. erecta, occasional  E. tetralix and scattered U. gallii. The adjacent area (13) is dominated  by Deschampsia cespitosa,  and also has Campanula  rotundifolia, Valeriana officinalis and Holcus lanatus.

A valley mire (14) occurs  in the western region of the common,  consisting of flushes, rivulets and a stream.  J. effusus, J. acutiflorus, N. stricta and Sphagnum sp. are frequent, with Lychnis Flos-cuculi and Polygonum polygonifolius also occurring. A small area of wet heath  at the NE end of the valley mire  has abundant E. tetralix and Sphagnum sp.,  plus frequent C. vulgaris, V. myrtillus and N. stricta. Oreopteris limbosperma occurs on a bank at the western end of the valley mire. A large valley mire also occurs near the centre of the northern boundary of the common (15), where some bracken occurs in  between several flushes and rivulets.  Pedicularis sylvatica  occurs, and two Golden-ringed  dragonflies Cordulegaster boltonii were observed here.

A small flush adjacent to the southern boundary (16) contains Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Carex demissa, C. panicea, Cirsium palustre and C. pratensis, and  a flush on the western  flank of Stapeley Hill (17) has Narthecium ossifragum and R. flammula. Two Salix pentandra trees occur alongside  a stream near the southern end of the latter flush. Other species recorded from flushes on Stapeley Hill include  Drosera rotundifolia, Lysimachia nummularium, Valeriana dioica, Hypericum tetrapterum, Triglochin palustris, Ranunculus omiophyllus, Stellaria alsine and Carex pulicaris.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep and cattle, and areas on the ridges which are free of bracken are heavily grazed. Heather survey summary: 14% of the site has some  heather (C. vulgaris and E. tetralix). 4% has heather at >25% cover, whilst 10% is at < 25% cover. All of the heather  is of the damaged 'carpet' form due to overgrazing. 

Walkers are frequent, and horseriding, off-road motorcycling and shooting occur. An old car has been dumped in the stream near area (17). An area of the common adjacent to the north-west boundary (18) has been enclosed by fences and is used as a sheep pasture.


FAUNA:
Recorded during  site visits:
Curlew, Red Grouse, Skylark, Kestrel, Lapwing, Meadow Pipit, Pied Wagtail, Swift, Green Woodpecker, Linnet, Mistle Thrush, Woodpigeon, Blackbird.
Rabbit, Mole (hills).
Common Lizard.
Trout (in Crumps Brook).
Small Heath, Painted Lady, Pyrrosoma nymphula (damselfly).

Additional species recorded in SWT Prime  Site file: Greater Spotted Woodpecker, Jackdaw, House Martin, Tree  Pipit, Storechat and Willow Warbler. Species recorded in the EN Invertebrate Site Register include the notable  hoverflies Arctophila fulva and Epistrophe grossulariae, the craneflies Tipula macrocera and Molophilus obscurus, and the dragonflies Aeshna juncea, Cordulegaster  boltonii, Orthetrum coerulescens and Symperum danae.

VEG:
(Target notes 1-5 relate to Map 1, and 6-12 to Map 2).
Over 60% of the area of Catherton Common is also an  SSSI, and a larger proportion  is a Shropshire Wildlife Trust Prime Site. There is consequently much recorded information concerning the common, and the  following description includes some  of this, together with the data gathered during the site visits.

This large,  elongate common contains a wide variety of habitats, including dry heath, wet heath and  some fine flushes. In the south-western region of the site (Map 1) there are extensive areas of acid grassland dominated by Nardus stricta with frequent Festuca ovina, Juncus effusus and Juncus squarrosus. Other species include Agrostis canina, Succisa pratensis, Deschampsia flexuosa, Potentilla  erecta, Galium saxatile, Danthonia decumbens, and Polygala serphyllifolia. Ulex gallii is scattered over many areas.

Marshy areas and small flushes in this region  are dominated by J. effusus with frequent Cirsium palustre, plus Ranunculus flammula, Viola palustris, Carex panicea, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Carex echinata, Stellaria alsine, Carex demissa, Lotus uliginosus, Myosotis secunda and Sphagnum sp..

Mounds of soil created by old mine workings occur on the lower slopes of Magpie Hill (1), and these drier mounds tend to attract sheep, resulting in a close-cropped sward with much Agrostis capillaris and Rumex acetosella, and some Lolium perenne. Large spoil heaps are present near the summit of Magpie Hill (2) and the steep slopes have abundant F. ovina  with frequent R. acetosella. Botrychium lunaria occurs here, and areas of spoil with spare vegetation  cover have  Aira caryophyllea, Trifolium dubium, Sagina apetala, S. procumbens, Erophila verna and Hieracium pilosella. On the flatter tops of the spoil heaps, N. stricta and A. capillaris are more frequent, with occasional Digitalis purpurea and Cerastium fontanum.

Pools occur near the south-west tip of the common,  probably created by old mine or quarry workings. Pool (3) has much of its surface covered by Equisetum fluviatile and Potamogeton polygonifolius is frequent. Species present at the marshy margins of the pool include Carex pulicaris, C. echinata, Juncus bulbosus, Cardamine pratensis, R. flammula, Carex nigra, Glyceria fluitans and Sphagnum sp.. Pool (4) also has E. fluviatile covering most of its surface. The north-west boundary of the common near the pools has Aesculus hippocastanum, Quercus robur, Crataegus monogyna and Fagus sylvatica scattered along its length.

The Crumps Brook (5) has eroded a deep channel, and the banks of the stream have  occasional  Alnus glutinosa,  Betula pendula and Sorbus aucuparia. D. purpurea is frequent, and other species include Blechnum spicant, Lysimachia nemorum, Deschampsia cespitosa,  C. echinata and Juncus articulatus. Calluna vulgaris and Thymus praecox are  rare on  the banks, and Fontinalis antipyretica occurs in the stream. The mosses Reacomitrium aciculare and  Scapania undulata have been recorded in this area.

In the north-eastern part of the common (Map 2) there are some excellent acidic flushes. The large flush (6) (near the areas excluded from the common land) contains frequent E. fluviatile, Juncus acutiflorus, R. flammula, C. echinata and M. secunda, plus Lychnis flos-cuculi and a patch of Salix cinerea. The nearby flush (7) had a higher water level at the time of the survey,  with much P. polygonifolius and C. nigra.

The flushes in areas (8) and (9) near the north-eastern tip of the common are particularly fine, with locally frequent Anagallis tenella, Menyanthes trifoliata, and Pinguicula vulgaris, plus Drosera rotundifolia, Narthecium ossifragum, Erica tetralix, P. polygonifolius, Sphagnum sp., Carex  panicea, C. echinata and  C. demissa. Adjacent to these flushes are areas of wet heath with frequent E. tetralix, Sphagnum sp., Polytrichum sp. and J. effusus, with occasional Juncus bulbosus, Drosera rotundifolia, N. ossifragum and C. echinata. The large area of wet heath in area (10) is much grazed by sheep, with the E. tetralix mostly low cropped. Molinia caerulea is frequent, and N. stricta and P. erecta occur here. 

Other species recorded from wet heath and flushes on Catherton Common include Vaccinium oxycoccos, Trichophorum cespitosum, Polygonum hydropiper, Lotus uliginosus, Carex dioica, Scutellaria minor, Eleogiton fluitans, Dactylorhiza incarnata subsp. pulchella, and Sphagnum palustre.

Extensive areas of dry heath occur in the north-eastern part of the common, dominated by mature Calluna vulgaris. Carex binervis, C. pilulifera, E. tetralix, N. stricta and Polygala serpyllifolia are occasional. An area of blanket bog at (11) is dominated by tussocks of Eriophorum vaginatum, with Vaccinium myrtillus, E. tetralix and Sphagnum sp. frequent. An adjacent area of wet modified bog has similar species but no Sphagnum.

Pteridium aquilinum dominates several extensive areas, and the slopes near the centre of the common adjacent to the north-west boundary (12) have frequent Ulex gallii. Erica cinerea is occasional amongst the gorse, with C. vulgaris, V. myrtillus, N. stricta and F. ovina. An unusual species growing amongst stone chippings next to a road in the NE region of the site at the time of survey was Plantago coronopus.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep and cattle and some areas are heavily grazed. Heather survey summary: 28% of the site contains some heather (C. vulgaris and E. tetralix, and infrequent E. cinerea). 23% has heather at > 25% cover, and 5% at < 25% cover. 7% of the site has damaged heather, with areas of overgrazed wet heath ('carpet' type) and some areas of C. vulgaris showing 'drumstick' type damage. Burning of gorse has occurred near the centre of the north-west boundary. Some clearance of birch and gorse scrub from the fine areas of wet heath and flushes at the north-east tip of the common might be beneficial to prevent further encroachment. 

The common is used by walkers and horseriders, and off-road motorcycling occurs, particularly on Magpie Hill. Some bare ground occurs at (13) in the north-east region of the site, as a result of logging operations centred on the adjacent woodland (outside the CL boundary).


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Willow Warbler, Woodpigeon, Chaffinch, Blue Tit.
Mole (hills).
Orange Tip.

VEG:
The field consists of semi-improved neutral grassland, with no indications of recent grazing, although the vegetation was short at the time of survey. Grasses include Festuca pratensis, F. rubra, Agrostis stolonifera, Lolium perenne, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus, Dactylis glomerata and Alopecurus pratensis, amongst which are Trifolium repens, Plantago lanceolata, Ranunculus arvis, Veronica serpyllifolia, Cardamine pratensis, Hypochaeris radicata, Cerastium fontanum, Rumex acetosa, Cirsium arvense and patches of scattered low-growing Juncus effusus.

A stream flowing along the northern boundary contains Apium nodiflorum, Veronica beccabunga and Myosotis sp., plus mature Salix caprea and a fallen Acer pseudoplatanus on the banks.

The hedges bordering the other three sides of the field are dominated by Crataegus monogyna. The eastern hedge has scattered Quercus petraea and Betula pubescens trees, plus Prunus spinosa and Corylus avellana. The southern hedge has trimmed Salix caprea, Ilex aquifolium, Rosa sp. and A. pseudoplatanus, with Lonicera periclymenum, Stellaria holostea and Galium aparine. The most species-rich hedge is  along the western boundary. The hedge here is unmanaged, and contains C. monogyna, Viburnum opulus, Salix caprea, Fraxinus excelsior, A. pseudoplatanus, Prunus spinosa and a single mature Quercus sp.

MANAGE:
The field is probably grazed, although no signs of recent grazing were observed. The hedges on three sides of the field are maintained.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Red Grouse, Linnet, Meadow Pipit, Pheasant, Raven, Swift, Kestrel, Jay, Crow, Woodpigeon.
Fox (scat), Rabbit.
Ringlet, Red Admiral, Oak Eggar Moth.

Records from the NNR include Merlin, Sparrowhawk, Curlew, Whinchat, Wheatear, Tree Pipit, Grasshopper Warbler, Redstart, Pied Flycatcher, Lesser Horseshoe Bat, Common LIzard, Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary, Green Hairstreak, Grayling, Fox Moth, Cantharis obscura (beetle), Phytodecta olivacea (beetle), and Formica rugubris (Northern Wood Ant).

VEG:
This large upland common is part of a National Nature Reserve, and there is much information recorded for the site. The following description includes some of this together with data gathered during the site visits.

(Target notes 2, 3, 4 and 5 relate to Map 1, and 1 and 6 to Map 2).

The Stiperstones contains some of the most extensive areas of good quality dry heath in Shropshire, and this habitat covers by far the largest area within the common land boundaries. The vegetation of the heath varies in response to management practices. The largest area is dominated by mature Calluna vulgaris, amongst which occur frequent Vaccinium myrtillus and Deschampsia flexuosa, with occasional Erica cinerea and Carex binervis. E. cinerea is noticeably more frequent on south-facing slopes, with some Ulex gallii and less frequent Cytisus scoparius. Areas of the heath which have been burnt or cut perhaps two or three years ago have V. myrtillus as the dominant species, with frequent C. vulgaris. Recently burnt or cut areas  have low-grazed  V. myrtillus and C. vulgaris, with D. flexuosa particularly frequent and Rumex acetosella occasional. There is a small area at (1) which is damper and has scattered Eriophorum angustifolium, E. vaginatum and C. binervis. Large areas of the slopes of Green Hill (2) have been badly burnt by uncontrolled fires, and at the time of survey only Pteridium aquilinum appeared to be returning to these slopes.

The Sliperstones ridge is visually dominated by spectacular tors, some of which occur within the common land boundaries. Many lichens occur on the tors, and Parmelia incurva, P. multifida, P. mougeotti, Lecidea sp. and Lecanora sp. have been recorded. Areas of boulder scree occur around the base of the tors, and in these areas C. vulgaris grows particularly large, probably due to the lack of burning. Vaccinium vitis-ideae is frequent amongst the scree, and Empetrum nigrum and Melampyrum pratense occur in area (3). In places the boulder scree has been sorted by periglacial frost-heaving processes into 'Stone Stripes'. Nardus stricta, Juncus squarrosus and D. flexuosa are frequent along the stoney track which extends over the top of the ridge in between the tors.

On the east-facing slopes in the north-east part of the common there is a flush (4) which has frequent Juncus effusus, Agrostis canina, Carex nigra and Polytrichum sp., with some Sphagnum sp. and E. angustifolium. Ranunculus omiophyllus occurs in a small flush near the northern boundary (5). Other species recorded from flushes in the Stiperstones NNR (some outside the CL boundaries) include Narthecium ossifragum, Viola palustris, Crepis paludosa, Hypericum elodes, Drosera rotundifolia, Pedicularis palustris, Eleocharis quinqueflora, Glyceria declinata, Montia fontana, Potamogeton polygonifolius, Carex hostiana, C. laevigata, C. echinata, C. pulicaris, C. demissa, Juncus bulbosus, J. conglomeratus, Sphagnum recurvum, S. cuspidatum, S. palustre and S. squarrosum.

P. aquilinum is scattered over many areas of the slopes, and patches of dense bracken occur. Ulex gallii is frequent in area (6), on a slope to the west of Perkins Beach. Several areas of broadleaved woodland occur at the base of the slopes, and these have frequent Betula spp. with some Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus petraea, Sorbus aucuparia and Crataegus monogyna. Species recorded in the ground flora of the woods include frequent D. flexuosa and P. aquilinum, plus Oxalis acetosella, Rubus fruticosus, Blechnum spicant, Mnium hornum, Hypnum cupressiforme, Dicranum majus and Hylocomium splendens.

MANAGE:
Heather survey summary: 84% of the site has heather (abundant C. vulgaris, with E. cinerea and E. tetralix locally frequent), all of which is at > 25% cover (with the exception of the narrow boundaries between heather and other habitats). No signs of heather damage were observed, other than that caused by the management practices of burning and cutting. Some grazing by sheep and cattle occurs, and bracken control by spraying has been undertaken in some areas. Horseriding and grouse shooting occur.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Wheatear, Buzzard, Raven, Skylark (breeding).
Fox (scat).
Common Lizard, Tadpoles (Frog or Toad).
Peacock, Small Tortoiseshell.

VEG:
A wide range of habitats occur on this upland common. An acidic flush (1) is dominated by extensive stands of Juncus effusus with frequent Sphagnum sp., and also contains Juncus articulatus, Holcus lanatus, Cirsium palustre and patches of Glyceria fluitans. The stream which flows through the southern end of the flush has frequent Ranunculus omiophyllus and Stellaria alsine, plus Montia fontana and Cardamine pratensis. At the northern end there is an area of marsh with frequent J. effusus, but with Sphagnum sp. much less freqent than in the flush.  A recent peat cutting occurs at (2).

The most extensive habitat on the common consists of dry heath, containing frequent low-grazed Calluna vulgaris and Vaccinium myrtillus, plus Festuca ovina, Juncus squarrosus and Cladonia sp. lichen. The eastern part of this habitat is lower-lying and damper, with frequent Polytrichum sp. mosses, and blends into an area of wet heath which contains frequent Sphagnum sp. and Carex nigra, plus locally frequent Juncus acutiflorus, J. squarrosus and Pedicularis sylvatica.

Adjacent to the common's north-western and south-western boundaries are areas of dry heath and acid grassland mosaic, containing frequent C. vulgaris, F. ovina and Galium saxatile, plus Deschampsia flexuosa, Polygala serpyllifolia and Potentilla erecta. The western corner has a patch of Ulex gallii with a few Sorbus aucuparia.

The region of the common east of the flush is slightly raised, and has acid grassland with J. effusus, plus there is an area of improved grassland with Lolium perenne, Cynosurus cristatus, Trifolium repens, Ranunculus acris, Bellis perennis and Taraxacum officinale. At the time of survey a broken cattle trough had created a small pool at (3), which was swarming with tadpoles.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by cattle and sheep, and some of the flush and Sphagnum areas have been trampled. Heather survey summary: 63% of the site has some heather (C. vulgaris). 40% has heather at > 25% cover, and 23% is at < 25% cover. All of the heather is of the damaged 'carpet' form, due to the grazing pressure. A recent small peat cutting occurs at (2), the purpose of which was not obvious.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Whinchat, Skylark, Meadow Pipit.
Fox (scat).

VEG:
This small upland common contains an area of marsh (1) dominated by Juncus effusus, amongst which occur Montia fontana, Cirsium palustre, Carex nigra, Juncus acutiflorus and Galium palustre. The wetter areas at the south-east end of the marsh contain Caltha palustris, Ranunculus flammula, Stellaria alsine and some Sphagnum, and Glyceria fluitans and Ranunculus omiophyllus occur in the adjacent stream. The drier areas at the north-west end of the marsh have frequent Holcus lanatus plus Deschampsia cespitosa, Ranunculus acris and Rumex acetosa.

Acid grassland on the common contains abundant Festuca ovina, plus Agrostis capillaris, Juncus squarrosus, Rumex acetosella, Luzula campestris and Galium saxatile. There is an extensive patch of Ulex gallii, although much of this is in poor condition. A small area of improved grassland at the northwest of the site has Lolium perenne, Trifolium repens, Taraxacum officinale and Bellis perennis.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by cattle and sheep, and fences occur along two sides of the boundary.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Skylark, Blackbird, Woodpigeon.
Rabbits (scats).
Tadpoles (Frog or Toad) in ditch just outside CL boundary.

VEG:
The most extensive habitat on this common is unimproved acidic grassland, in which occur frequent Festuca ovina, Agrostis capillaris and Juncus squarrosus, plus Rumex acetosella, Luzula campestris, Galium saxatile and Juncus effusus. There are several areas dominated by Ulex gallii, and a patch of Calluna vulgaris dry heath also contains Cladonia sp. lichens.

At the southern end of the site two areas of marshy grassland contain frequent J. effusus, plus Stellaria alsine, Anthoxanthum odoratum  and Holcus lanatus. Ditches in this region also hold Ranunculus omiophyllus, R. flammula, Montia fontana, Cardamine pratensis and Glyceria fluitans. A small pond adjacent to the north-east boundary contains R. flammula and G. fluitans.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by cattle, and two feeding stations occurred on the site at the time of survey ('X' on map). Heather survey summary: 19% of the site has some heather (C. vulgaris). 14% has heather at > 25% cover, and 5% is at < 25% cover. All the heather is of the damaged 'carpet' form, due to grazing pressure.

Recent drainage excavations were apparent in an area south of the common at (1), and this may affect the water table on the nearby common land.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit:
Mistle Thrush, Song Thrush, Blackcap, Chiffchaff, Wren, Blackbird, Woodpigeon, Chaffinch.
Rabbit, Mole (hills in churchyard).

VEG:
The common is dominated by deciduous woodland, with a church and churchyard in the centre. On the northern and western sides the woodland is mature, with fine specimens of Castanea sativa and Fagus sylvatica (one var. purpurea), plus Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior, Betula pendula, Ilex aquifolium, Crataegus monogyna, Ulmus glabra, Quercus robur and Taxus baccata.

Both Montia sibirica and Lamiastrum galeobdolon occur near the south-west corner, and also present in the ground flora are Moehringia trinervia, Mercurialis perennis (frequent), Brachypodium sylvaticum, Geum urbanum, Stachys sylvatica, Geranium robertianum, Arcium minus, Glechoma hederacea, Arum maculatum and Hedera helix.

The woodland on the eastern side and part of the southern side is undisturbed  and very overgrown. Rubus fruticosus, Sambucus nigra, Urtica dioica, H. helix and a variety of fallen trees combine to make the area very difficult to traverse. M. perennis occurs amongst the limited ground flora, and the tangled undergrowth provides fine cover for mammals and birds. There is a small cliff on the western side of the site (1), and a patch of U. dioica occurs at the north-east corner.

MANAGE:
No signs of management were apparent in the woodland. A small amount of dumping has occurred in the north-east area, and signs of bonfires were present beneath an overhang at the base of the cliff.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Heron, Mallard, Skylark, Starling, Yellowhammer.

VEG:
The site consists of semi-improved neutral grassland with little diversity remaining. Lolium perenne, Cynosurus cristatus and Poa trivialis are dominant with frequent Alopecurus pratensis, Holcus lanatus and Cirsium vulgare. Also present are Hordeum secalinum, Festuca rubra, Phleum pratense, Alopecurus geniculatus, Vicia sativa, Cirsium arvense, Ranunculus bulbosus, R. acris, Bellis perennis, Trifolium repens, Bromus hordeaceus, Trisetum flavescens, Dactylis glomerata, Urtica dioica, Juncus inflexus, Potentilla anserina and Achillea millefolium. Ditches which surround the N part of the site are embanked; on the warmer freer-draining SE facing banks are found Lotus corniculatus, Medicago arabica, Potentilla reptans, Allium vineale, Crepis capillaris, Torilis nodosa and the European rarity Petroselinum segetum (frequent). The ditches themselves  have sparse marginal vegetation including Phalaris arundinacea, Scirpus maritimus, Deschampsia cespitosa, Apium nodiflorum, Ranunculus sceleratus, Sparganium sp., Veronica catenata and Potamogeton pectinatus.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep and cattle. Thistles are frequent in the pasture. Any further agricultural improvement of the sward should be resisted and the embankments should be retained as at present.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Woodpigeon, Wren, Blue Tit, Robin, Blackbird, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Carrion Crow. Common Shrew.

VEG:
Much of the S of the common is neutral or calcicolous grassland. The latter is closest to the scarce CG6a type with Avenula pubescens, Festuca rubra and Poa spp. frequent and Carex flacca, Achillea millefolium, Lotus corniculatus,  Galium verum and Leontodon hispidus also common. Also present are Plantago lanceolata, P. media, Pimpinella saxifraga, Briza media, Carex caryophyllea, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Linum catharticum, Ranunculus bulbosus, Prunella vulgaris, Luzula campestris, Koeleria micrantha, Avenula pratensis (rather rare), Vicia sepium, Centaurea nigra, Cirsium acaule (rare), Hieracium pilosella and Dactylis glomerata. Usually this grades into more mesic grassland rich in Arrhenatherum elatius which is still quite species-rich: Ranunculus acris, Deschampsia cespitosa, Veronica chamaedrys, Rumex acetosa, Cirsium arvense, Lathyrus pratensis, Trifolium pratense, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus and Conopodium majus are present. (1) is the only area of calcicolous sward dominated by Bromus erectus. Scrub of English Elm, Ash, Buckthorn and Bramble fringes the E and S and there are fenced tree-plantings of Pinus sp. Ash, Sycamore and Plane with Beech and Walnut elsewhere on site. A large standard Beech is present in the SE. The N of the site consists of woodland and scrub-woodland. Ash is dominant with a closed tall canopy although to the NE Beech becomes the main tree. The shrub layer includes Field Maple and Wych Elm, and Sycamore, English Oak and Hornbeam along the N edge. Ground flora is generally poor, but includes dominant Hedera helix, Galium aparine and Mercurialis perennis, Arum maculatum, Allium ursinum, Geranium robertianum, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Ribes uva-crispa, Glechoma hederacea, Asplenium scolopendrium, Moehringia trinerva, Viola odorata, Dryopteris filix-mas and Thamnium alopecurum. Open areas amid scrub have Urtica dioica and Anthriscus sylvestris. There is a little Ligustrum vulgare.

MANAGE:
The grassland is probably intermittently cattle grazed. A small area adjacent to the school is mown for amenity purposes. Landscape management is seen in the numerous plantings of trees (some of the species rather inappropriate for the site), and of ornamental bulbs in the NW corner of the common.

The Avenula pubescens grassland on this site, though restricted, is of considerable interest because of its scarcity in S Britain, and should be maintained at all costs by the continuation of light grazing. Further tree-planting should be resisted to maintain the open character of the green. The site has good educational potential for the adjacent school.


FAUNA:
Much data exists for this site. The following is a summary of that in National Trust and English Nature files: Breeding Red Grouse and Ring Ousel (N. Hester pers. comm.), Curlew, Snipe, Stonechat, Whinchat, Wheatear, Skylark, Linnet, Meadow Pipit & Cuckoo. Hen Harrier & Merlin (1991 records) (Not breeding, feeding only), Raven, Buzzard, Sparrowhawk & Kestrel use site for feeding. 
Red Deer, Rabbit, Hare, Common Lizard, Adder, Grass Snake, Slow Worm, Common Frog. 
Lepidoptera include Heath and Pearl-bordered Fritillaries, Green Hairstreak, Lead coloured Pug (notable), Emperor Moth, Beautiful Yellow Underwing, Brown Silver-lines, Oak Eggar, Common Heath Moth and True Lover's Knot. 
Coleoptera include Lochmaea suturalis, Nebria salina, Olisthopus rotundatus, Cicindela campestris, Hydroporus gyllenhali and the local Apion scutellare (Bin Combe). Odonata: Aeshna juncea (bog pools at SS 886414). Records also exist for Hemiptera, Hymenoptera, Myriapoda and Arachnida (several rare species found adjacent to the property, probably also occurring on it).

VEG:
What follows is mostly an abstraction from the National Trust survey of the Holnicote Estate (q.v.). The great majority of the site is covered with heath vegetation. Often Calluna vulgaris is present in almost pure stands, but elsewhere it is co-dominant with Vaccinium myrtillus or Erica cinerea, Agrostis curtisii, Ulex gallii and Danthonia decumbens.  The latter represents NVC community H6 which has a localised distribution in Britain; the most extensive stand is centred on the SE part of the common. Other species present in small quantity throughout the heath include Deschampsia flexuosa, Molinina caerulea, Nardus stricta, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Trichophorum cespitosum and Erica tetralix, with the most frequent bryophytes being Hypnum cupressiforme, Dicranum scoparium and Pleurozium schreberi. The sandy track in the NE of the common has a large population of the declining Sagina subulata. Around Dunkery Beacon itself is a small boulder field with Vaccinium myrtillus heath on it. Bracken is scattered along the roadside and becomes more dominant in the SE beside Bin Combe and Dunkery Errish, where there is also scattered Ulex europaeus scrub; a small acidic flush at the head of Bin Combe is of limited interest. The W of the common includes areas of wet heath where Molinia caerulea becomes codominant with Calluna. Eriophorum vaginatum, Trichophorum cespitosum, Erica tetralix, and Juncus squarrosus may also be present. A small area of land at Dunkery Gate is not in NT ownership. It holds improved grassland, used for recreation, a car park, acidic grassland of Agrostis capillaris, and a steeply incised combe with scrub of Salix cinerea, Quercus petraea and Rowan. The combe is rich in lower plants including Blechnum spicant Dryopteris filix-mas, D. dilatata, Polypodium vulgare, Athyrium filix-femina, Mnium hornum, Dicranum majus, D. scoparium, Plagiothecium undulatum, Rhytidiadelphus loreus, Polytrichum formosum, Rhizomnium punctatum, Pellia epiphylla and Scapania sp. There is also Melampyrum pratense. Beyond lies an area of semi-improved acidic grassland with Agrostis capillaris, Festuca ovina, Lolium perenne, Cerastium fontanum, Trifolium repens and scattered bracken. Two rare species, Huperzia selago and Listera cordata, were recorded in the vicinity of Dunkery Beacon up until the early 1970's and may still be present. At SS 886414 lies a small area of mire, with an intricate mosaic of pools, wet heath and Sphagnum hummocks holding a varied fauna.

MANAGE:
At present, much of the heather is young or middle-aged. However, a very detailed heather burning plan for the Holnicote Estate has now been formulated by the National Trust and includes all the heath on this common. The plan is to burn with a 12-15 year cycle, but leaving some areas to mature to 20 years +, to increase the overall age structure and diversity within the moor. It is important however that small areas of wet heath and mire should not be burned. Grazing levels appear to be low. In view of this, together with the NT strategy to safegaurd the heather moor through good management, a full survey of grazing damage was not felt justified. A few sample sites were visited and all contained heather at high cover undamaged by grazing, although there appeared to be a little damage from heather beetle locally. Footpath erosion has been bad in the past, especially in popular areas, such as the track which leads from Dunkery Gate to Dunkery Beacon; efforts to control this have been underway since the 1980's. Signs also prevent vehicular access to the moor. Management of Gorse and Bracken also occurs; Bracken in some parts of the site should be managed specifically to increase the available habitat for the Heath Fritillary. A programme for the introduction of Red Grouse (present in very low numbers) and reintroduction of Black Grouse (extinct since early 1980's) is being considered in conjunction with the RSPB.


FAUNA:
Much data exists for this site. The following is a summary of that in National Trust and English Nature files: Breeding Merlin and Ring Ousel (1991 records N. Hester), Snipe, Curlew, Wheatear, Stonechat, Whinchat, Skylark, Meadow and Tree Pipits, Cuckoo, Blackcap, Whitethroat, Linnet. Grasshopper Warbler has bred. Raven, Buzzard, Sparrowhawk and Hen Harrier may use the site for feeding. 
Red Deer, Rabbit, Hare, Common Lizard, Adder, Grass Snake, Slow Worm. 
Lepidoptera include Heath Fritillary, Lead coloured Pug (notable), Emperor Moth, Beautiful Yellow Underwing, Brown Silver-lines, Oak Eggar, Common Heath Moth and True Lover's Knot. Coleoptera include Apion ulicis, Sitona striatellus, S. regensteinensis and Cicindela campestris. The relict montane species Pterostichus aethiops was found in the 1980's outside of the site but may occur. Other records exist for Hemiptera, Hymenoptera and Arachnida, the latter again with several rare species recorded just off the site on Luccombe Hill (SS 906430): Hilaira excisa, Euryopis flavomaculata and Porrhomma pallidum.

VEG:
Much of what follows is an abstraction from the National Trust survey of the Holnicote Estate (q.v.). Much of the site consists of heath with Calluna vulgaris often in almost pure stands. In most of the lower E and SE facing areas, however, the vegetation is more diverse with H4 Ulex gallii-Agrostis curtisii heath represented; the vegetation also includes Erica cinerea, Molinia caerulea, Danthonia decumbens, Deschampsia flexuosa and Vaccinium myrtillus. The latter species is co-dominant with Calluna beside Hanny Combe. At Hanny Combe and generally around the fringes of the common Bracken is dominant, often with scattered bushes of Ulex europaeus which may locally form dense scrub. Scattered trees for example of Rowan, Blackthorn, Quercus petraea and Salix cinerea are also present along some of the fringes, and Rhododendron ponticum occurs at one place in the east. Acidic flushes occur at Hanny Combe and one or two other places on the NE slope. The former are a downstream extension of an area of saddle mire (here mapped as blanket bog) and are particularly rich in an Exmoor context. As a whole the mire system includes areas of dominant Molinia caerulea with large Calluna and Vaccinium myrtillus bushes, Erica tetralix and Sphagnum lawns including S. capillifolium and S. papillosum tussocks of Juncus effusus, Eriophorum vaginatum, Carex nigra, C. binervis, Narthecium ossifragum, Aulacomnium palustre and Calypogeia mullerana; much of the flush consists of Sphagnum spp., and Juncus effusus. Pinguicula lusitanica is also reported from the area. A track in the SW has locally frequent Sagina subulata on bare sand in its upper stretches. At SS 924428 there is an open wood of Birch defined by a woodbank which has ground flora including Vaccinium myrtillus, Rhytidiadelphus triquetrus, Dicranum majus, Mnium hornum, Thuidium tamariscinum and the fungus Cantharellus cibarius. Neottia nidus-avis and Epipactis helleborine were recorded in 1979 but were not apparent during a brief survey.

MANAGE:
At present, much of the heather is young to middle aged. However, a very detailed heather burning plan for the Holnicote Estate has now been formulated by the National Trust and includes all the heath on this common. The plan is to burn with a 12-15 year cycle, but leaving some areas to mature to 20 years +, to increase the overall age structure and diversity within the moor. Any burning plans should exclude the areas of wet heath and saddle mire in the cntre of the site. Grazing levels appear to be low. In view of this, together with the NT strategy to safeguard the heather moor through good management, a full survey of grazing damage was not felt justified. A few sample sites were visited in the W and all contained heather at high cover, undamaged by grazing. The Birch wood at SS924428 is however open to grazing and this may have resulted in the apparent loss of its orchids; Stockproofing it would be desirable. Of the Exmoor commons, this site has the largest *Bracken and scrub/heather moor interface and should receive monitoring and management as appropriate (*Important in maintaining suitable habitat for Heath fritillary butterfly). A particular cause for concern is the occurrence of Rhododendron in one locality, which should be removed as soon as possible. Wardening of rare species took place in 1991; this common recieves much less visitor pressure than the adjacent CL 74. Consideration is being given to the (re)introduction of Grouse species (see CL 74).


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted: Woodpigeon, Spotted Flycatcher, Blackbird, Robin, Blue Tit, Wren, Grey Squirrel, Wood Ant, Emperor Moth. 
Much data exists for the National Trust parts of the common - a summary follows: Hobby (1991 record N. Hester pers. comm.) Buzzard, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Snipe, Curlew, Raven, Meadow Pipit, Skylark, Stonechat, Whinchat, Chiffchaff, Willow & Wood Warbler, Mistle Thrush, Pied Flycatcher & Redstart all probably breed. Red Deer, Rabbit, Hare, Adder, Grass Snake, Slow Worm, Common Lizard, Common Frog. Lepidoptera include Heath Fritillary, Oak Eggar, Common Heath Moth, Fox Moth, Brown Silver-lines and Beautiful Yellow Underwing. Coleoptera include Apion scutellare (unit 3) and Pterostichus diligens and Bradycellus harpalinus (unit 2).

VEG:
Area (1) consists of four parcels of land all of which hold woodland. Three occupy S facing slopes and hold semi-natural broadleaved woodland, zoned up the slope: lower down beside the track is wood of Ash and Sessile Oak with few other associstes in the sparse shrub layer but including Beech, Hawthorn and Holly. Ground flora includes Hedera helix, Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus agg., Digitalis purpurea, Cytisus scoparius and various ferns. At the top of the slope is pure Sessile Oakwood of closely spaced young standards with a 15m canopy. Ground flora here includes relict heath species: Deschampsia flexuosa, Melampyrum pratense (abundant), Vaccinium myrtillus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Erica cinerea (rare), Polytrichum formosum, Thamnobryum alopecurum, Leucobryum glaucum and Dicranum scoparium. The bank beside the track has the most diverse flora including Luzula pilosa, Oxalis acetosella, Poa nemoralis, Athyrium filix-femina, Asplenium adiantum-nigrum, A. trichomanes, A. scolopendrium, Polypodium vulgare, Polystichum setiferum, Dryopteris filix-mas and D. dilatata. Meconopsis cambrica (rare) is presumably escaped. The larger woodland block to the E  has mostly broadleaved plantation with Sweet Chestnut, Western Hemlock, Douglas Fir, Birch and Rhododendron. To the S Sessile Oak-Birch woodland becomes prominent. Vegetation information for units (2) to (4) is largely taken from the National Trust survey of the Holnicote Estate (q.v.). Exford Common unit (2) is important for its mire communities: an area of blanket bog, about half of which has been modified by burning in 1980 so that it now resembles wet heath. The undamaged bog has a hummocky surface with Molinia caerulea dominant and Sphagnum spp. Also present are Erica tetralix, Eriophorum vaginatum, Trichophorum cespitosum, Juncus squarrosus, Narthecium ossifragum, Empetrum nigrum and Vaccinium oxycoccus the latter very rare in S Britain. Lower plants include Cladonia portentosa, Aulacomnium palustre, Odontoschisma sphagni, Lophozia ventricosa and possibly Campylopus atrovirens. The modified bog has wet heath vegetation with Calluna, Molinia and Eriophorum angustifolium, with Sphagnum spp. and a little Drosera rotundifolia. The dry heath, which also clothes much of unit (4), is similar to that on the adjacent CL 74. Unit (3) has even-aged Sessile Oak with no shrub layer and is undergrazed so that only a little Vaccinium myrtillus persists with Rhytidiadelphus loreus, Plagiothecium undulatum, Polytrichum formosum and Dicranum majus. In the N it passes into Birch wood with some Rhododendron ponticum.

MANAGE:
Part of unit (1) is a plantation. The management of units (2) and (3) is largely dealt with in a very detailed heather burning plan formulated by the National Trust for the Holnicote Estate. The plan is to burn on a 12-15 year cycle, but leave some areas to mature to 20 years + to increase the overall age structure and diversity within the moor. Areas of wet heath and mire on Exford Common are not to be burned (the area of mire burnt in 1980 is still recovering). A full survey of grazing damage over these units was not felt justified; of several sample records made, all dwarf shrubs were at high cover (usually more than 90%) and showing little or no signs of overgrazing, except for very slight topiary effects in areas where grazing pressure is marginally higher, such as beside the road in unit (4). The bracken on unit (3) should be managed for the benefit of the Heath Fritillary.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted: Swift, Swallow, House Martin, Skylark, Blue Tit, Sedge Warbler, Reed Bunting, Carrion Crow, Common Frog.

VEG:
The common consists in the main of semi-improved neutral grassland dominated by Lolium perenne. Cynosurus cristatus and Poa spp. with Ranunculus acris, Alopecurus pratensis, Festuca rubra, Taraxacum officinale agg., Holcus lanatus, Rumex acetosa, Trifolium pratense, T. repens, Bellis perennis and Plantago lanceolata. The W field has Festuca pratensis and locally frequent x Festulolium loliaceum. Rhynes traversing the site hold Lysimachia nummularia, Carex otrubae, Juncus inflexus, J. effusus, Phalaris arundinacea, Mentha aquatica, Sparganium erectum and Glyceria sp. with scattered scrub of Hawthorn, Elder and Dog Rose. A small amount of scrub in the SE of Hawthorn, Bramble, Blackthorn and Bullace has Urtica dioica and Galium aparine associated. There is also a mature Crack Willow tree. The banks of the Parrett have Urtica dioica tall herb with some Phalaris arundinacea and Schoenoplectus lacustris. The NE field was not surveyed in detail.

MANAGE:
The grassland is probably cattle grazed (though no rights exist) or cut. Further sward improvement should be resisted.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted: Tree Pipit, Blue Tit, Wren, Robin, Blackbird, Willow Warbler, Whitethroat, Linnet, Yellowhammer. Red Deer. 
There is an extensive Badger sett at ST 198330 (SERC files).

VEG:
S of the road is mostly dense bracken with scattered Ash, Hazel, Hawthorn, Sycamore, English Oak and bushes of Ulex europaeus. The Bracken has few associates but Rubus fruticosus agg., R. idaeus, Chamaenerion angustifolium, Digitalis purpurea, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus mollis and Rumex acetosella may be locally frequent. A few open rides have Festuca ovina, Luzula campestris, Galium saxatile, Hypochoeris radicata, Potentilla erecta, Euphrasia sp., Veronica officinalis, Polygala serpyllifolia or Erica cinerea (rare). In the vicinity of a recent burn in the W, Vaccinium myrtillus and Teucrium scorodina are prominent with Deschampsia flexuosa, Aira praecox and Pleurozium schreberi. A track leads E to the car park along which Ulex scrub occurs and Chamaenerion angustifolium tall herb with somewhat disturbed unimproved neutral grassland. This includes Leontodon hispidus, Stellaria graminea, Rumex acetosa, Leucanthemum vulgare and Lotus corniculatus.  N of the road lies woodland divided into 3 areas by 2 tracks. The W area has large Beech with young Ash and Sycamore, the central area is scrub woodland, mainly of Hawthorn with young Oak and occasional Ash, Birch and Holly with much Rubus idaeus and R. fruticosus beneath and the E area has fine old Oaks with young Ash and Hazel. Ground flora includes Adoxa moschatellina, Mercurialis perennis, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Listera ovata, Galium odoratum, Ranunculus auricomus, Primula vulgaris and c. 24 Colchicum autumnale.

MANAGE:
There have been several burns amid the bracken (most recent shown). The open hill is managed for public amenity with vehicular access prohibited. There has been timber extraction and replanting of Oak at (1) and older felling is now sprouting coppice regrowth in the NE area. Woodland management should continue. There is scope for some native tree planting in area (2). Bracken clearance near the Vaccinium would increase its vigour and diversify the site.


FAUNA:
The ISR lists 12 species of local butterfly for the SSSI of which this site is a part. Probably occurring are Dark Green, Silver-washed, Pearl-bordered and Small Pearl-bordered Fritillaries, Dingy & Grizzled Skippers, Purple Green and Brown Hairstreaks and Grayling. The spider fauna is also of note and a range of heathland birds are present (Nightjar has bred). Rabbit.

VEG:
What follows is largely an abstraction from the data in English Nature Files (q.v.). Almost all of the plateau and a good deal of the N slopes hold dry heath, much of the localised H4 type, with Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, Ulex gallii, Agrostis curtissii, Erica tetralix and Molinia caerulea. Elsewhere there may be much Vaccinium myrtillus with Deschampsia flexuosa and other species present include Galium saxatile, Centaurium erythraea, Teucrium scorodonia and Polygala serpyllifolia. Bracken is present in discrete blocks on the plateau and covering much of the N slopes where heath persists beneath the bracken canopy. There are also scattered trees of Birch, Rowan and Pine here. At the foot of the N slope are areas of scrub and woodland which include English Oak, Silver Birch, Rowan and Salix cinerea, often with much tussocky Molinia caerulea in the understorey and Juncus effusus, Blechnum spicant, Polytrichum sp. and Sphagnum.

MANAGE:
At the time of survey much of the plateau heath had been burnt with young Calluna less than 20 cm at fairly low cover. There was also a burn as recently as 1988 covering much of the W area. Conversation with a local person suggested that the latest burn was late in May and may have been accidental (?). Tall stands of ericoids on the slopes of the common showed no signs of grazing damage - the site may be wholly ungrazed by stock. The burning pattern is probably not  optimal for the site. Controlled burns over limited areas on a rotational basis and outside of the growing season, coupled with a greater interval between burns in the same area would allow a range of structure to be established that would maintain the overall cover of heath shrubs and be of greater value to heathland fauna.


FAUNA:
On brief site visit the following species were noted:  Woodpigeon, Wren, Robin, Blackcap, Garden Warbler, Chiffchaff, Rook, Jay.

VEG:
Most of the following information is taken from the Quantock Woodland Survey Report (q.v.). The site is almost entirely semi-natural broadleaved woodland. Most is a coppice of Ash, Sweet Chestnut, English Oak and Sycamore. Glades are frequent but most have become overgrown with Bramble and Bracken. Hazel, Downy Birch, Holly, Hawthorn and Elder are prominent components of the shrub layer whilst Alder grows along the stream edge at (1) and large Beech trees are frequent in the N part. In area (2) an area of old Oak pollards with a ground flora of grasses and Bracken. Some lichens are present on dead branches. In places the deep leaf litter of Beech, Sycamore and Sweet Chestnut severely restricts the ground flora but Hedera helix, Ranunculus ficaria, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Dryopteris affinis, D. filix-mas, D. dilatata, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Geranium robertianum, Galium aparine, Geum urbanum, Primula vulgaris, Potentilla sterilis, Silene dioica and Stellaria holostea are most common. Other species include  Wild Cherry, Galanthus nivalis and Prunus lusitanica (occasional). One area is still open and has dense Bracken with scattered trees of Ash, Sycamore, Horse Chestnut, Sweet Chestnut and scattered scrub of Hazel, Ash, Hawthorn and Lonicera periclymenum. Lotus uliginosus, Holcus lanatus, H. mollis, Teucrium scorodina, Angelica sylvestris and Conopodium majus are present beneath the Bracken.

MANAGE:
1987 survey recorded recent thinning and replanting in Sweet Chestnut coppice in the N of the wood.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted: Woodpigeon, Wren, Blue & Great Tits, Willow Warbler, Sedge Warbler, Chaffinch, Common Shrew. Meadow Brown, Small Heath, Large Skipper, Odonata: Ischnura elegans. Much data exists for the SSSI of which this site is a part (see sources). Examples: Breeding Snipe, Curlew, Lapwing, Redshank. 
Otter. Grass Snake, Common Frog. 
Odonata: Brachytron pratense, Sympetrum sanguineum. 
Coleoptera: Haliplus mucronatus, Hydrophilus piceus, Apion spencei. Diptera: Stratiomys furcata, Oedalea tibialis.

VEG:
E Drove is typical of open droves, with a central track of poached peat with Lolium perenne grassland with ruderals and fringing verges of Arrhenatherum elatius grassland which are generally quite rich, but sometimes poor and mapped as semi-improved. Present may be Phalaris arundinacea, Filipendula ulmaria, Arctium minus, Heracleum sphondylium, Iris pseudacorus, Elymus repesns, Lysimachia vulgaris, Rumex acetosa, Conium maculatum, Vicia cracca, Myosoton aquaticum, Thalictrum flavum (occasional throughout), Papaver rhoeas, Matricaria recucita, Stachys palustris, Lathyrus pratensis, Senecio sylvaticus, Calystegia sepium, Polygonum amphibium, P. persicaria, Galeopsis tetrahit and beside the rhynes  Angelica sylvestris, Rumex hydrolapathum, Carex riparia and C. pseudocyperus The other droves are shaded wholly or in part by standards of Alder, Hawthorn, Crack Willow and Salix cinerea or by hedges - mostly of Hawthorn, Guelder Rose and Salix cinerea - or both. Janes Drove is very rank and the S end of E drove and the W end of Higher ropes drove are poached bare. There is a dump with ruderals in the former. The 'common meadow', difficult to access, has scrub in the N of Alder and Salix cinerea with a (10m) Guelder Rose. This is mixed with luxuriant tussocky species-rich tall herb fen with Molinia caerulea, Holcus lanatus, Cirsium arvense, Angelica sylvestris, Juncus subnodulosus, Thelypteris palustris, Vicia cracca, Valeriana officinalis, Peucedanum palustre, Stachys palustris, Galium elongatum, G. palustre, Lysimachia nummularia, Carex riparia, C. acutiformis, Thalictrum flavum, Equisetum fluviatile, Rumex acetosa, Lotus uliginosus, Solanum dulcamara and Cladium mariscus.

MANAGE:
The droves appear seldom cut. Alder planting and dumping occur on E Drove, and rhynes are cleared occasionally. The 'common meadow' has probably not been cut for many years; its tussocky nature now makes this difficult although it may still be grazed. Monitoring/management may be needed to prevent any undesireable scrub succession.


FAUNA:
None was seen during the brief site visit.

VEG:
The E verge of Charcroft Hill holds quite good damp MG5 grassland. Present are much Cynosurus cristatus, Lolium perenne, Poa trivialis, Dactylis glomerata, Festuca pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Bromus hordeaceus, Ranunculus acris, Lathyrus pratensis, Trifolium pratense, T. repens, Plantago lanceolata, Taraxacum officinlae agg., Potentilla reptans and P. anserina and smaller amounts of Trisetum flavescens, Centaurea nigra, Alopecurus pratensis, Carex flacca, C. hirta, Pulicaria dysenterica, Filipendula ulmaria, Juncus effusus, Vicia cracca, V. sepium, Stellaria graminea, Rumex acetosa, Lotus corniculatus, L. uliginosus and Cerastium fontanum. There is a small amount of Arrhenatherum elatius grassland with Cirsium arvense and Urtica dioica, and tree planting has taken place of English Oak, Horse Chestnut and Copper Beech.

MANAGE:
The verge appears to be mown. This should continu,e with the clippings removed from the main body of the sward. There should be no further tree planting.


FAUNA:
The following is a summary of source material:  Buzzard, Snipe, Curlew (both breeding 1978), Cuckoo, Woodpigeon, Skylark, Meadow & Tree Pipits, Whinchat, Stonechat, Redstart, Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, Linnet, Yellowhammer, Reed Bunting, Jay. 
Red Deer. 
Lepidoptera: Oak Eggar, Ruby Tiger, Drinker, Green-veined White, Adela reaumurella. Coleoptera:Chalcoides fulvicornis, Micrelus ericae, Staphylinus erythropterus, Stenus tarsalis, S. impressus, Alconota gregaria, Meloe proscarabeus, Notiophilus biguttatus.
Arachnida: 6 rare species found, Dicymbium tibiale, Hilaira excisa, Centromerus arcanus, Leptorhoptrum robustum, Agyneta ramosa and Pachygnatha listeri.

VEG:
What follows is a summary of the 1982 National Trust Survey (q.v.). Dry heath dominated by Calluna vulgaris covers the upper slopes of the hill. On the flatter tops it tends to form almost pure stands, although Deschampsia flexuosa, Vaccinium myrtillus and Carex binervis may be present in small quantity. On the N facing slopes many stands have a higher proportional cover of Vaccinium, whilst on the drier S facing slopes a different type is represented, with Erica cinerea and Ulex gallii frequent and Danthonia decumbens, Festuca ovina, Agrostis canina and Potentilla erecta. The scarce Pinguicula lusitanica was recorded in 1981 at SS 874341 and Huperzia selago last seen in 1972 at SS 882342. Lower plants present in the heath include Pleurozium schreberi, Hypnum cupressifrome, Polytrichum formosum, P. juniperinum, P. commune, Rhytidiadelphus loreus, Campylopus spp., Cladonia impexa, C. uncialis and other Cladonia spp. Draydon Knap, particularly in the NE, has wet heath with Calluna co-dominant with Molinia caerulea. Bracken may occur, scattered within the heath and lower down encircles it, often dense over deep litter. Species associated may include Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Viola riviniana, Conopodium majus, Melampyrum pratense and Oxalis acetosella in the NE, and elsewhere typical species of acidic grassland such as Luzula multiflora, Galium saxatile, Polygala serpyllifolia and Campanula rotundifolia. Acidic flushes emerge at intervals around the slopes of the hill. That in the punchbowl SS 882343 feeds a small area of valley mire at its foot and is bryophyte-dominated with much Philonotis fontana Sphagnum spp. and Hylocomium splendens and includes Succisa pratensis, Cardamine pratensis, Carex demissa and Hygrohypnum ochraceum. Rowan, Hawthorn and Salix cinerea are closely associated with this flush; at one place Phegopteris connectilis occurs in their shade. The valley mire is dominated by Molinia caerulea with Juncus acutiformis, Sphagnum spp., and includes Eriophorum angustifolium, Galium palustre, Dactylorhiza maculata, Dryopteris dilatata, D. carthusiana, Viola palustris, Carex nigra and C. pseudocyperus. On the SW slopes centred on SS 866342 is an extenisve flushed area which has dominant Molinia with Erica tetralix, Carex panicea, Potentilla erecta, Polytrichum commune  and Sphagnum spp. (including S. recurvum, S. capillifolium and S. papillosum) abundant or locally so, and also much Narthecium ossifragum, Drosera rotundifolia and Eriophorum angustifolium. Also present are Juncus squarrosus, J. bulbosus, Vaccinium myrtillus, Dactylorhiza maculata, Succisa pratensis, Carex echinata, C. nigra and Trichophorum cespitosum. Other flushes of note are at Little Ash Combe and NW of Draydon Knap (includes Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Ranunculus omiophyllus, Viola palustris and Wahlenbergia hederacea).
Scattered trees of Hawthorn occur throughout, notably beside the road and on the N slopes where there are also scattered mature trees of Beech. On the W slopes of the Punchbowl is an area of open woodland with Hawthorn, Rowan, Sycamore, Beech and Sessile Oak over bracken. Salix spp. occur lower down. Scrub of Ulex europaeus is frequent around the margins of the site. It is often damaged by stock but is best seen N of the Caractacus stone.

MANAGE:
The site is grazed throughout by sheep and Exmoor Ponies. The Heather is also burnt. Much of the heath is supressed in one way or another as a result of heather beetle, physical damage, or especially overgrazing. The combined effects of the latter two are seen in areas subject to winter feeding with brought in fodder, as at SS 895331, which was once heath vegetation but is now acidic grassland. A brief survey of heather grazing damage was undertaken, which emphasized that much of the damage takes place because of the way in which stock from the adjacent South Hill gain entry in the S. However heather morphs characteristic of chronic grazing damage were found scattered almost throughout the hill, and only the area within c. 0.5km of the Wambarrows showed heather at both high cover and virtually undamaged. Many other areas with a high cover of ericoids at present show serious signs of damage; the Calluna is suppressed and may in fact be in decline. Associated species, noticably Erica cinerea and Ulex spp. displayed similar damage, where present, and in the worst affected areas such as Comer's Gate, Spire Cross and Mounsey Hill gate, bleached dead stems of all these species litter the ground. Remedying the situation is likely to mean reducing the stocking rate over particular areas to < 2 ewes/ha. Construction of a cattle grid at the S entrance to the site would control stock straying from the adjacent areas. At present there would appear to be little to be gained by burning the heather because few of the plants are mature enough to warrant this. A recent burn N of Draydon Knap has rejuvenated the heather but much regrowth is being grazed into carpet form straight away. Once heather cover was stabilised, the hill would benefit from a burning plan similar to that formulated by the National Trust for the Holnicote Estate.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted: Swift, Swallow, Blackbird, Reed Warbler, Starling, Reed Bunting, Linnet, Chaffinch. 
Small Heath.
Odonata: Brachytron pratense, Ischnura elegans, Enallagma cyathigerum. 
The adjacent rhynes have yielded the following 3 notable species: Lepidoptera: Zygaena trifolii descreta; Coleoptera: Telmatophilus typhae; Ashfordia granulata plus 47 other spp. (see sources). Snipe recorded 1989.

VEG:
The SE quadrant has damp unimproved neutral grassland dominated by Festuca rubra, F. arundinacea, Holcus lanatus, Cynosurus cristatus, Poa spp., Lolium perenne and Alopecurus pratensis with Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Lathyrus pratensis, Ranunculus acris, R. repens, Pulicaria dysenterica, Vicia cracca and Lotus uliginosus frequent and Juncus inflexus, Rumex acetosa, R. crispus, Carex hirta, C. otrubae, C. spicata, Heracleum sphondylium, Lysimachia nummularia, Phragmites australis, Hordeum secalinum, Cerastium fontanum, Geranium dissectum, Bromus racemosus and Silaum silaus (both very locally frequent) also present. In the N the sward is tall and rather marshy (drying reedswamp passing to MG1 grassland?) with dominant Phragmites australis, Festuca arundinacea, Pulicaria dysenterica, Mentha aquatica, Urtica dioica, Cirsium arvense, Galium palustre, Calystegia sepium, Epilobium hirsutum, Polygonum amphibium, Iris pseudacorus, Oenanthe lachenalii (local), Equisetum arvense, Arrhenatherum elatius, Galium aparine and Carex otrubae. A small amount of Salix fragilis scrub occurs in the W. The SW quadrant has marshy grassland similar to the above with a pool with Salix cinerea and Glyceria maxima, Phragmites australis and Solanum dulcamara. Rhynes which surround the common hold Phragmites australis, Iris pseudacorus, Lemna minor, L. trisulca and Alisma plantago-aquatica. Flanking the track is a small area of MG1 grassland with ruderal spp. such as Hordeum murinum and Picris echioides.

MANAGE:
The common is probably intermittently grazed, though was rank at the time of survey. If pasturing is no longer occurring it is important that the grassland in the SE is mown in order to preserve its diversity. This should take place in early August with the clippings removed. Dumping should be more forcefully discouraged.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Jackdaw, Rook.
Rabbit.
Small White, Small Heath, Meadow Brown.

VEG:
Most of the site harbours improved grassland of Lolium perenne, with Poa trivialis, Bromus hordeaceus and few forbs. The SE corner has disturbed open calcicolous grassland over steep dry soil. Present are frequent Agrostis capillaris, Dactylis glomerata, Leucanthemum vulgare, Senecio jacobaea, Potentilla reptans, Medicago lupulina and Carex flacca. Also present are Festuca pratensis, F. rubra, Sherardia arvensis, Aphanes arvensis, Sanguisorba minor, Cirsium eriophorum, C. vulgare, Geranium dissectum, Convolvulus arvensis,, Picris echioides Galium verum, Agrimonia eupatoria, Anagallis arvensis, Myosotis arvensis, Homalothecium lutescens and Campylium chrysophyllum. The declining species Ranunculus parviflorus is occasional throughout. A partially fenced area has a similar but slightly less open sward including Viola hirta, Lotus corniculatus, Knautia arvensis, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Glechoma hederacea, Euphorbia exigua, Phleum bertolonii, Centaurium erythraea, Ononis repens, Linum catharticum, Bellis perennis, Ranunculus bulbosus, Ophrys apifera (5) and Anacamptis pyramidalis (27). Scrub is of Bramble, Hawthorn, English Elm and Rosa canina s.l. A double species-poor hedge of English Elm extends to the SE, and slope bases have Arrhenatherum elatius grassland with tall herb of Conium maculatum.

MANAGE:
Most of the resown grassland had been cut at time of survey and cattle were grazing the aftermath. An incomplete fence restricted but did not prevent access to the semi-natural grassland in the SE. These swards also underwent grazing by a strong population of rabbits from the adjacent pasture. There should be no further agricultural improvement on this site; continued grazing by cattle & rabbits is necessary to maintain an open poached sward in the SE in which Ranunculus parviflorus can survive. The level of stocking will need to be watched, however, if the other species of value on the site are not to suffer.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, Wren, Blue Tit, Spotted Flycatcher, Blackbird, Robin, Chiffchaff, Jackdaw.
Grey Squirrel.

VEG:
The common harbours abandoned quarry workings recolonised by secondary woodland. The quarry face is 25-30m high, vertical, and approximately 50% vegetated with scrub of Ash, Sycamore, English Oak, Crab Apple, Rosa spp. Elder and Bramble, abundant Hedera helix and various forbs which also cover blocky scree at the cliff foot. A good fern flora occurs: Polypodium sp., Dryopteris filix-mas, D. dilatata, Polystichum setiferum, Athyrium filix-femina, Asplenium scolopendrium and A. adiantum-nigrum. Also present  are Umbilicus rupestris (abundant), Circaea lutetiana, Mnium hornum, Thuidium tamariscinum and Polytrichum formosum. The quarry bases have open areas of bare soil with rubbish and storm-damaged timber; ground flora is suppressed by trampling. The wood is of English Oak, Beech, Sycamore and Ash with a generally closed canopy. Common Lime, Turkey Oak and Prunus laurocerasus are rare. The shrub layer also includes Blackthorn, Elder, Spindle, Hazel, Holly and Hawthorn. Ground flora is generally poor including, in addition to the ferns given above, Lamiastrum galeobdolon, Geranium robertianum, Veronica montana, Geum urbanum, Viola odorata, Mercurialis perennis, Rumex sanguineus, Urtica dioica and Stachys sylvatica. Deschampsia flexuosa, Teucrium scorodonia and Ulex europaeus occur locally, suggesting there was of old some heath on the site. A track along the N edge has some old boundary coppice of Hazel and one or two fine Oak standards.

MANAGE:
No signs of recent management were evident in the wood. Informal recreation takes place with rope swings over the old quarry bases and mountain bikes using the area. These have eliminated the ground flora at the base of the cliffs. The most important action to be taken is to discourage bonfires, and especially the dumping of domestic refuse which could easily get out of hand.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Wren, Blue Tit, Blackcap, Whitethroat, Yellowhammer, Linnet, Rook.  
Hemiptera: Cercopis vulnerata.

VEG:
Stretches (1) and (2) hold  MG1 grassland with a good range of species, particularly rich in some areas. Present are Galium mollugo, G. aparine, Sinapis arvensis, Ranunculus repens, Heracleum sphondylium, Chaerophyllum temulentum, Eupatorium cannabinum, Stellaria graminea, Centaurea nigra, Ajuga reptans, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Sison amomum (locally occasional), Leucanthemum vulgare, Dryopteris filix-mas, Myosotis arvensis, Oenanthe pimpinelloides (1 plant at ST 293156), Lathyrus pratensis, L. montanus, Vicia sativa, V. cracca, V. sepium, V. hirsuta and Trifolium pratense. There are badly drained areas locally in which Angelica sylvestris, Lotus uliginosus, Filipendula ulmaria, Pulicaria dysenterica, Deschampsia cespitosa, Carex otrubae, C. hirta, Juncus effusus, J. bufonius, Alopecurus geniculatus, Cirsium palustre, Agrostis stolonifera, Gnaphalium uliginosum, Achillea ptarmica (rare) and Lychnis flos-cuculi (very locally occasional) add diversity. Other areas either hold species poor Poo-lolietum grassland (MG7) or tend to acidic with Teucrium scorodonia, Lathyrus montanus (locally frequent), Stachys officinalis, Hypericum pulchrum, Holcus mollis and Conopodium majus. Bracken is occasional. Area (3), affected by silage leachate, has mostly species-poor MG7 grassland with a few ruderals such as Stellaria media, Chenopodium album and Tripleurospermum inodorum. Area (4) has a similarly poor sward, heavily shaded by overhanging Oak and Beech standards. The E limb of Long Drove is also shaded by scrub and trees, and affected by sileage leachate. Its ground flora includes Urtica dioica stands Stachys sylvatica, Moehringia trinerva, Geum urbanum, Geranium robertianum, Polypodium vulgare, Rubia peregrina, Dryopteris filix-mas, Chaerophyllum temulentum and Rumex sanguineus with ruderals. Hedges which define the droves are not species-rich or old, but contain a good diversity of species overall. There is much Blackthorn, Hawthorn, Salix cinerea and Bramble, but also Wild Privet, English and Sessile Oaks, Holly, Beech, Ash, English and Wych Elms, Hazel, Field Maple, Rosa canina, R. arvensis, R. stylosa, Lonicera periclymenum, Tamus communis and Ulex europaeus. There are Scots Pine standards to the W. To the N there are two detatched areas; Venner's Lane is concrete-surfaced with mown semi-improved neutral grassland including some Sison amomum. Further N, another lane forms a border alongside a ley with little of note except Sison.

MANAGE:
The droves appear unmanaged. The two detatched areas and section (1) are surfaced; the main drove is probably kept open simply by use by farm machinery.

Control of sileage leachate from Hare Farm is important. Escape of silage effluent is an offence which may lead to prosecution.


FAUNA:
None was noted during the brief site survey.

VEG:
W of the bridge there is amenity grassland and a stretch of neutral grassland with Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne, Rumex acetosa, R. obtusifolius, Reynoutria japonica, Galium aparine, Athyrium filix-femina, Digitalis purpurea and Urtica dioica. To the E the banks of the river are a little more diverse, harbouring grassland similar to NVC MG5 type, with some Rhinanthus minor. Marginal vegetation includes Phalaris arundinaces, Epilobium hirsutum, Valeriana officinalis, Filipendula ulmaria, Senecio aquaticus, Cirsium palustre and Angelica sylvestris. The banks are shaded by standards of Ash and Salix cinerea. Inundation vegetation on shingles midstream holds Polygonum persicaria, P. lapathifolium, Ranunculus repens, R. flammula, Stellaria alsine and Oenanthe crocata. The river itself, the inclusion of which within the site is uncertain, has some Myriophyllum sp.

MANAGE:
The site is unmanaged. Eradication of Reynoutria is important. Otherwise non intervention is recommended.


FAUNA:
Much data exists for this site (see sources). The following is a summary only: Red-legged Partridge, Lesser spotted woodpecker, Pied Flycatcher, Willow Tit, Nightingale, Nuthatch, Woodcock are amongst the breeding birds. 
Badger, Stoat and Roe Deer occur, also Common Lizard, Adder and Palmate and Smooth Newts. Lepidpotera: 33 spp. recorded, including Marbled White, White Admiral, Grizzled Skipper, Purple Hairstreak, Brown Argus, Silver-washed and Marsh Fritillaries. 
Odonata: 13 spp. recorded in 1990 including Anax imperator, Brachytron pratense, Orthetrum coerulescens, O. cancellatum, Sympetrum sanguineum and Calopteryx splendens. Orthoptera: Omocestus viridulus, Chorthippus parallelus, Metrioptera brachyptera. 
Diptera: there is a record for a scarce subspecies of Thereva fulva. 
Coleoptera: Cicindela sylvatica.

VEG:
The following notes have been taken chiefly from English Nature and STNC files (q.v.). Much of the site consists of carr woodland dominated by Betula pubescens, B. pendula and Salix spp., which is of outstanding interest for its fern flora with Osmunda regalis and Thelypteris palustris present. Myrica gale is also abundant, as are Rubus fruticosus agg. scrub and Hedera helix. The N unit of carr contains a central clearing containing wet and dry heath and bog modified greatly by peat cutting but originally part of a raised mire. Heathy areas are dominated by Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix, and Molinia caerulea with Polygala serpyllifolia and Dactylorhiza maculata amongst others. The mire elements include Narthecium ossifragum, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Rhynchospora alba, Pinguicula lusitanica, Drosera rotundifolia, D. intermedia, Eriophorum angustifolium, and species more characteristic of fen such as Cirsium dissectum and Juncus subnodulosus. Old turbary sites now hold standing water, often deep, which may include Hydrocharis morsus-ranae, Utricularia minor and Sparganium minimum. A high proportion of the species present are scarce or rare in the county, and/or nationally declining. Areas of Bracken fringe the clearing.

MANAGE:
Common rights have remained unexercised for many years. The common is now a Local Nature Reserve subject to Section 9 protection, and managed by the county wildlife trust. Compilation of a detailed management plan in 1990 by STNC has been an important step in the safegaurding of this ecologically very valuable site. The principal objectives are heath and mire management to encourage rare species; carr management to diversify structure for faunal populations; increasing glade area by the possible creation of another in the S carr block. There is an emphasis on the need for continuing survey, and especially monitoring throughout the latter to identify any hydrological changes which may be occurring: both pollution of ground water and lowering of the water table are serious threats to the nature reserve.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Wren, Blackbird, Willow Warbler, Chaffinch.

VEG:
The verges hold unimproved neutral grassland, poorly drained and tending to marsh in some places, and with scattered scrub in others. Scrub species include Blackthorn, Hawthorn, Field Maple, Bramble, Rosa canina, R. arvensis and Crack Willow, the latter near the small pond. Grassland, probably MG5, holds Cynosurus cristatus, Dactylis glomerata, Poa spp., Festuca rubra, F. pratensis, Alopecurus pratensis, Hordeum secalinum, Trifolium pratense, T. repens, Rumex acetosa, Centaurea nigra, Lotus uliginosus, Torilis japonica, Geranium dissectum, Stellaria graminea, Ranunculus acris, Potentilla reptans, Oenanthe pimpinelloides (sometimes frequent, many hundreds of plants), Sison amomum (locally frequent), Vicia cracca, V. sepium, Lathyrus pratensis and Lolium perenne. Marginal areas of grassland often have a ranker sward of Arrhenatherum elatius which may include Urtica dioica, Symphytum officinale, Galium aparine, Heracleum sphondylium, Vicia sativa and Cirsium arvense. Damp areas may hold Juncus effusus, J. inflexus, Deschampsia cespitosa, Angelica sylvestris, Carex otrubae, Phalaris arundinacea, Lysimachia nummularia, Alopecurus geniculatus, A. x hybridus (depression at ST 726227), Pulicaria dysenterica, Oenanthe crocata, Ranunculus repens, Glyceria sp. and Epilobium hirsutum, and an overgrown pond has some Galium ? elongatum. In the far W of Temple Lane the grassland tends to tall herb of Oenanthe crocata, Anthriscus sylvestris, Epilobium hirsutum, Cirsium arvense and Rumex sanguineus. Some areas (Green Lane, Moormill Bridge) were not surveyed as they were occupied by travellers encampments.

MANAGE:
There was little evidence of management, but the verges may be mown occasionally or be intermittently grazed. The best stretches of this road-verge common are excellent herb-rich grassland, and should be cut sympathetically at the beginning of August with the clippings removed.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted: Woodpigeon. 
Meadow Brown, Large White, Speckled Wood, Small Tortoiseshell.

VEG:
W of the road is a rather open copse of English Oak, Beech, Silver Birch, Hazel and Salix cinerea, with a ground flora mostly of Urtica dioica and Hedera helix. There is some Dryopteris dilatata and Pteridium aquilinum. The copse is bounded by tall herb vegetation of Urtica, Chamaenerion angustifolium, Epilobium hirsutum, Calystegia sepium and some Arrhenatherum elatius. Close to the farm are planted Lawson Cypress. E of the road the vegetation is mostly various types of woodland and scrub, although an area of semi-improved neutral grassland has some Leucanthemum vulgare and Lathyrus pratensis. A small area of mature wood of Beech and Oak with tall Hazel and Birch grades into scrub and scrub woodland to the N and E, where standards of Beech occur with Salix cinerea and Birch. There is also Elder, Hawthorn and Guelder Rose. Ground flora is badly disturbed in many places due to human activities, but Rubus fruticosus agg., Ribes uva-crispa, Hedera helix, Dryopteris dilatata, Holcus lanatus, Juncus effusus, Pteridium aquilinum, Ranunculus repens and Chamaenerion angustifolium remain. At (1) on a bank beneath the open canopy a tiny vestige of H4 heathland remains with Ulex gallii, Erica cinerea, Agrostis curtisii, A. capillaris, Hypericum pulchrum, Rumex acetosella, Polytrichum formosum and Pogonatum aloides. Tall herb of Urtica dioica occurs in one or two areas.

MANAGE:
The common is largely unmanaged, although the area of grassland is mown at intervals to keep it short and is used as a repository for farm machinery. Lawson Cypress have been planted recently beside the farm. The woodland is used as a trail for mountain bikes and dumping of straw, rubble, and domestic refuse, presumably by the farm, is heavy. Dumping should be curtailed as it constitutes a nuisance. Any woodland management should keep it open and preserve/extend the heathland vestige as it appears good for butterflies. Fences should be removed.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Mallard (7), Moorhen, Woodpigeon, Wren, Robin, Blackbird, Rook, Carrion Crow, Magpie.  
Small Tortoiseshell.
Odonata: Sympetrum striolatum.

VEG:
Much of the site holds improved grassland, referable to the MG6 type, with dominant Lolium perenne and Holcus lanatus, Cynosurus cristatus, Cirsium arvense (frequent), C. vulgare, Trifolium repens, Rumex obtusifolius, Taraxacum officinale agg., Ranunculus repens, R. acris, Plantago major, Urtica dioica and Bellis perennis. S of the disused railway lie two areas which are marginally more diverse with Deschampsia cespitosa, Agrostis capillaris and Phleum bertolonii. A shelter belt in the S has mature Scots Pine with Field Maple, Hawthorn and Elder. Boundary drains are the richest part of the site. These appeared to be at least in part eutrophic, from 4-9 feet wide, and up to 3 feet deep. Present are Lemna minor, Apium nodiflorum, Glyceria maxima, Stachys palustris, Ranunculus sceleratus and Alisma plantago-aquatica. There is a stand of Conium maculatum in one place and Crack and White Willow pollards line the S edge. The disused railway excluded from the site holds dense scrub, mostly of Blackthorn and Hawthorn and is open on the top of the embankment.

MANAGE:
The site is grazed by cattle and sheep. Some clearance of vegetation from the drains has taken place. A reduction in stocking level might benefit grassland diversity.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Herring Gull, Swallow, Chaffinch.

VEG:
The NW-SE trending drove is tarmaced in the N and unmade in the S, with Arrhenatherum elatius grassland in which there is some Urtica dioica, Rumex spp., Cirsium arvense, Lathyrus pratensis and riparian species such as Scrophularia auriculata and Phalaris arundinacea. To its W is a species-poor rhyne, and to its E a species-poor hedge. The SW trending lane is also unmade with a defunct hedge including Blackthorn, Elder, Rose and Hawthorn. The rhyne which follows the ditch has Carex riparia, Phragmites australis, Glyceria maxima, Typha latifolia, Lemna minor, L. trisulca and the verge itself is either Arrhenatherum elatius grassland or MG7 Poo-lolietum with a few species such as Polygonum persicaria, Vicia cracca, V. sativa, V. sepium, Hordeum secalinum, Galium mollugo and Pulicaria dysenterica. The distal end is a path amid Lolium ley, weedy, with little floral interest.

MANAGE:
At the time of survey the main rhyne had been cleared and the bank vegetation cut.


FAUNA:
Sources include references to the following species:  Buzzard, Kestrel, Red-legged Partridge, Cuckoo, WoodPigeon, Green Woodpecker, Skylark, Tree Pipit, Dunnock, Wren, Willow Warbler, Blackcap, Whitethroat, Lesser Whitethroat, Whinchat, Blackbird, Robin, Yellowhammer, Linnet, Chaffinch. 
Badger, Rabbit, Greater & Lesser Horseshoe Bat.
Lepidoptera: Dingy and Grizzled Skippers, Chalkhill & Common Blues, Green Hairstreak, Brown Argus, Marbled White; Dark Green, Pearl Bordered & Small Pearl bordered Fritillaries, Small Heath, Cistus Forester, Brown Silver Lines, Tissue and Herald Moths and Grayling. 
An excellent beetle fauna includes the rare species Licinus punctatulus, Harpalus dimidiatus and H. azureus, plus Otiorhynchus sulcatus, O. calvipes, Lampyris noctiluca, Trachyphloeus alternans and Byrrhus pilula (all associated with stones/scree) and Gymnetron labile, Aphthona herbigrada, Cicindela campestris, Bruchidius cisti, Altica britteni, A. oleracea, Timarcha tenebricosa and T. goettingensis (heath/grassland species). 
Orthoptera include Tettigonia viridissima, Leptophyes punctatissima, Pholidoptera griseoaptera, Myrmeleotettix maculatus and the scarce Stenobothrus lineatus. 
There are records for Hemiptera (including the scarce Sciocornis cursitans), Hymenoptera and Diptera (such as the rare Chrysotoxum elegans and the scarce Symphoromyia immaculata and Medetera micacea), woodlice, centipedes, spiders (including the rare cave spider Meta bourneti), pseudoscorpians and a flatworm. 
The molluscan fauna is rich: the NT report lists 10 species including the scarcer ones Abida secale, Pyramidula rupestris, Helicigona lapidicida, Pupilla muscorum and ceciliodes acicula.

VEG:
What follows has been abstracted largely from the source documents (q.v.). The site has a wide range of calcicolous grassland types. Scattered on Wavering Down, and covering much of the SW slopes of Crooks Peak, is grassland of the rare CG1e, and especially CG1c types (latter only on Mendip). Prominent over stony shallow soils are Festuca ovina, Carlina vulgaris, Sanguisorba minor, Thymus praecox, Cirsium acaule, Carex flacca, Asperula cynanchica, Sedum acre, Euphrasia nemorosa, Linum catharticum and Helianthemum nummularia, plus the RDB species Trinia glauca and Koeleria vallesiana.  Acinos arvensis, Filipendula vulgaris and the rare Centaurium capitatum are also present. Lichens are a major component in sparse soil areas and over 70 species have been recorded including the rarities Placidiopsis custnanii, Cladonia convoluta, C. symphycarpa, Caloplaca flavocitrina and C. lactea. At ST 392551 the nationally rare moss Gymnostomum viridulum occurs. Deeper calcareous soils on the E of Crooks Peak, Compton Hill, much of Wavering Down and Cross Plain support CG2a grassland characterised by Festuca ovina, Avenula pratensis, Koeleria macrantha and several of the species given above. Vegetation of this type at ST 475549 has frequent Spiranthes spiralis, Centaurium pulchellum and c. 100 Marrubium vulgare in a disturbed area. Other species of note within CG1 and CG3 vegetation are Carex humilis, Potentilla tabernaemontani and Cerastium pumilum. A third grassland type, rank CG4c Brachypodium pinnatum sward has smaller amounts of Avenula pratensis, Carex flacca and Sanguisorba minor, and occurs at Bourton Combe and between Crooks Peak and Compton Hill. Complicating the patterns of calcicolous grassland is the occurrence of acidophilous species including heaths on drift over much of the N of the site. Ulex gallii is prominent but Erica cinerea and Calluna vulgaris are present locally, as are Galium saxatile and Potentilla erecta. Bracken forms extensive stands in a few areas and Brachypodium sylvaticum, Holcus lanatus, Teucrium scorodonia, Gallium mollugo, Viola riviniana and Conopodium majus may be associated. Scrub and secondary woodland is present around the fringes of the common, consisting mainly of Ulex europaeus, Hawthorn and Ash where older. Scattered scrub on the open hill also include Wild Privet, Dogwood, Wayfaring Tree, Buckthorn, Holly, Whitebeam, Goat Willow and Spindle, with a few trees of Ash, Sycamore and Oak. On Cross Plain, Yew occurs on the crags. The best-developed woodland is that adjacent to King's Wood in the far east. Carboniferous Limestone reaches the surface in outcrops, screes and small cliffs at Crook's Peak and Cross Plain. Species restricted to this habitat include Asplenium trichomanes, A. ruta-muraria, A. ceterach and Geranium robertianum.

MANAGE:
Sheep graze between Crook's Peak and Wavering Down. Gorse heath is burned in many places, notably around Compton Hill and N of Crook's Peak. 

The 1987 National Trust Biological Survey has recommendations for the management of this site. To maintain the variety of habitats present the need for Bracken and scrub control is highlighted, in addition to control of the aggressive grass Brachypodium pinnatum which covers much of the N of Crook's Peak. The latter will necessitate concentrated hard grazing. Research into management history is recommended in order to prescribe the best grazing regime for the valuable grasslands. Investigation into levels of cave disturbance by potholers is recommended on account of the valuable troglodyte fauna.

A scheme is in operation to enable a limited number of horse-riders open access to the downland. It is important to monitor this scheme to ensure that abuse does not lead to deterioration of the grasslands.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted: Woodpigeon, Blue Tit, Robin, Blackbird,  Chiffchaff, Yellowhammer.  
Rabbit.  
Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown.

VEG:
Dense bracken has developed over much of the site, associated for the most part with scattered bushes of Ulex europaeus which become dense in the centre. The E and SE margins also have scattered Birch (frequent), Hazel, Oak, Rowan and Salix cinerea. The bracken litter is dense but rides through it hold semi-improved acidic grassland, and in a few places heath vegetation including Agrostis capillaris, A. curtisii, Potentilla erecta, Lotus uliginosus, Prunella vulgaris, Cirsium palustre, Teucrium scorodonia, Hypericum pulchrum and Rumex acetosella. Plantations of Pine/Larch and Birch occur, the latter with self-sown Birchwood developing along its edges and a sparse ground flora including Vaccinium myrtillus, Poa nemoralis, Potentilla sterilis, Holcus lanatus and Rhytidiadelphus triquetrus. The woodbank between the two plantations has some Dryopteris filix-mas and 5 plants of D. aemula. A boundary bank W of the Birch forming the edge with CL 107 also is rich in ferns including Asplenium adiantum-nigrum, Dryopteris dilatata, Blechnum spicant and Polypodium vulgare. The SW of the site holds H4 Ulex gallii-Agrostis curtisii heath including Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, Vaccinium myrtillus, Polygala serpyllifolia, Galium saxatile, Carex pilulifera, Deschampsia flexuosa and Danthonia decumbens.

MANAGE:
The two plantations are presumably managed for timber. Parts of the scrub are used for informal recreation by mountain bikes. The heath has been burnt in the past, but scrub and bracken are unmanaged. The heather burning plan formulated by the National Trust should be implemented on the heath which is continuous with the large block on CL 107. There is quite a large front for bracken and gorse invasion into the heath and this should be monitored and managed for the structural habitat element it provides. The conifers, once felled, could be replaced by Birch which supports a richer ground flora.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted: Heron, Skylark, Sedge Warbler, Greenfinch, Carrion Crow. 
Small Heath.
Odonata: Enallagma cyathigerum. 
Sources include records for the following: Coleoptera: Haliplus mucronatus, Berosus affinis, Coccidula scutellata, Enochrus bicolor and Rhantus suturalis. 
Diptera: Odontomyia viridula. 
Ephemeroptera: Caenis robusta. 
Mollusca: Gyraulus laevis. Mink, Fox, Hare, Rabbit, Hedgehog probably also.

VEG:
Unimproved neutral hay meadow occupies the whole of the site, traversed by a few drains. Present are Lolium perenne, Cynosurus cristatus, Hordeum secalinum, Holcus lanatus, Alopecurus pratensis, Festuca pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Dactylis glomerata, x Festulolium loliaceum, Rumex acetosa, R. crispus, R. conglomeratus, Ranunculus acris, R. repens, R. bulbosus, Silaum silaus, Centaurea nigra, Cerastium fontanum, Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Lotus corniculatus, Gaudinia fragilis, Leucanthemum vulgare and Montia fontana. The meadow is not homogeneous; its E end is shorter and more herb-rich, including Rhinanthus minor, Briza media, Carex flacca, Hypochoeris radicata, Leontodon hispidus and Orchis morio. A 1981 record for Inula helenium may also refer to this part of the site. Drains on the site include dominant Phragmites australis, Glyceria spp., Veronica anagallis-aquatica, Alopecurus geniculatus, Nasturtium officinale, Callitriche sp., Oenanthe crocata, Apium nodiflorum, Alisma plantago-aquatica, Juncus inflexus, Eleocharis palustris, Ranunculus aquatilis and Chara sp.

MANAGE:
The site is managed in the traditional manner for hay, with grazing presumably taking place on the aftermath. This management should continue and there should be no sward improvement in the future. The species differences between the richer E end of the site and the rest may be due to protracted periods of grazing without a hay crop that have occurred in the past in the W section (see also CL 80); neither Rhinanthus minor or Orchis morio are resistant to heavy grazing. It may therefore be advisable not to allow this to take place in future and to cut for hay in such a way that harvesters moved from the richer E end toward the W.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Buzzard, Kestrel, Curlew, Skylark, Meadow and tree pipits, Whinchat, Wheatear, Stonechat, Starling, Linnet, Yellowhammer, Raven.  
Further study is recommended.

VEG:
A large part of the upper and mid-slopes of Withypool Hill, Brightworthy Barrows and the land in between is covered heath. This differs from that on neighbouring Winsford Hill in being much damper. Calluna vulgaris and Molinia caerulea are often co-dominant, with comparatively few associates, although in places Molinia is the most prominent of the two. Associates include Erica tetralix, Potentilla erecta, Vaccinium myrtillus, Deschampsia flexuosa and locally Nardus stricta - a good fit to NVC type M15d. Sphagnum spp. appear however almost entirely absent from this extensive area of wet heath, presumably due to burning. The driest area of heath is an extensive area of H8e in the far N, where slopes are S facing. Here Molinina is (atypically) still locally frequent, but prominent with Calluna are Erica cinerea, Ulex europaeus, U. gallii, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta, Vaccinium myrtillus, Hypochoeris radicata, Polygala serpyllifolia, Pedicularis sylvatica, Pleurozium schreberi, Dicranum scoparium and Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus. Further, dry heath is present around the slopes of Knighton Combe where Vaccinium myrtillus may be the dominant ericoid and NNW of Withypool Hill where Calluna and Vaccinium are co-dominant. Further species found in the heaths include Melampyrum pratense, Hylocomium splendens and Carex binervis, whilst in areas of heath and grass mosaic around the periphery may be found Digitalis purpurea, Blechnum spicant and, especially in sheltered places such as disused quarries, Oreopteris limbosperma. Acidic grassland is generally of Agrostis capillaris and Festuca ovina with some Nardus stricta, and in places is quite diverse: Anthoxanthum odoratum, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Luzula campestris, Polygala serpyllifolia, Veronica officinalis, Conopodium majus and Pedicularis sylvatica may be present with Euphrasia anglica/confusa on roadside banks at SS 844350 and 811358. Juncus squarrosus and J. effusus are also important species in the fringe grasslands. Also well represented are Molinia caerulea dominated swards, especially fringing Brightworthy Barrows to the N and W. This quite extensive area has probably resulted from too frequent heath burning. It is comparatively poor in species, but includes Potentilla erecta, Nardus stricta, Carex echinata and Deschampsia flexuosa. In contrast to Winsford Hill, Bracken is local, with dense stands S of Knighton Combe and Dillacombe and the slopes N of the River Barle.

Flushes and valley mires are important habitats on the site. S of Withypool Hill, a series of species-rich flushes feed a valley mire (1), with abundant Juncus acutiflorus, J. effusus, J. bulbosus, Molinia caerulea, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Carex echinata, C. panicea, C. demissa, C. pulicaris, Festuca ovina, Sphagnum capillifolium, S.recurvum and S. papillosum and also Isolepis setacea, Viola palustris, Lotus uliginosus, Drosera rotundifolia, Luzula multiflora, Dactylorhiza maculata, Narthecium ossifragum, Eleocharis multicaulis, Anagallis tenella, Succisa pratensis, Carex nigra, Eriophorum angustifolium, E. vaginatum, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Hypericum elodes, Trichophorum cespitosum, Erica tetralix, Scutellaria galericulata, Stellaria alsine, Ranunculus flammula, Aulacominum palustre and Polytrichum commune. Another notable valley mire is that in Dillacombe, especially by the ford (2), where in addition to species-rich Juncus/Molinia dominated areas similar to above, there are Sphagnum lawns, rich in Menyanthes trifoliata and Narthecium ossifragum; Drosera rotundifolia, Potamogeton polygonifolius and Pedicularis palustris, and Wahlenbergia hederacea on mineral soil beside the ford. A large area of rich valley mire also flanks the River Barle (3). Parts are very wet and quake, and Ranunculus omiophyllus is present. In the far NE another mire system (4) includes Eleocharis multicaulis, Myosotis secunda, Wahlenbergia hederacea, Potamogeton polygonifolius and Eleogiton fluitans in small quantity (this species is very rare on Exmoor). Athyrium filix-femina and Sphagnum cuspidatum are also found in mires on this site. Alongside the larger streams may be found Oreopteris limbosperma, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Peplis portula, Oenanthe crocata, Ranunculus hederaceus, Sphagnum squarrosum, Brachythecium plumosum and various liverworts. The River Barle itself is fast-flowing and has few aquatic macrophytes. To its S are various rock exposures with a good lichen flora on rocks and shrubs including Parmelia, Coelocaulon, Usnea and Cladonia spp. and Evernia prunastri. Racomitrium and Jasione montana also occur.
Scattered trees and shrub occur at the foot of some of the hills; Ulex europaeus, Hawthorn and Rowan are the principal species. There is some Beech in the NE.
Other species present on the site include Carex pilulifera, C. ovalis and Melampyrum pratense.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep, Exmoor ponies and possibly cattle. In many areas the heather is burnt, and some of these fires may be accidental or poorly controlled. At the time of survey a large burn of spring 1991 (outside of the proper burning season?) was evident on the NE slopes of Withypool Hill, and new growth was being sheep-grazed. Winter feeding of stock appears to take place in one or two places, such as in the SE corner and near the boundary with Halscombe Allotment. An area of about 10 hectares has been cleared of bracken at SS 807362. A brief survey of grazing damage incurred by heather was made. Grazing damage is most apparent in the H8e heath in the N, where grazing has brought about a fall in heather cover E of the road, and there is a quite high occurence of damaged heather morphs, and particularly in the SE. Here a broad belt of grass/heath mosaic occurs, with the heath all supressed in a carpet form. Scattered Ulex europaeus is also greatly suffering from overgrazing in this area. Generally however, grazing damage is not as serious as on Winsford Hill.

Fires are a problem on Withybush Common, with the abscence of Sphagnum in the wet heath, the high proportion of Molinia in the heath, and the presence of large amounts of NVC M25 type all probably stemming from this activity. There is almost no mature ling heath present on this site, although the oldest stands appear to be in the far N, and Withypool Hill in particular appears to be repeatedly burned with much regrowth heavily grazed.

It would increase the wildlife value of this site if management could be targeted toward greatly reducing the frequency of burning in dry heath and stopping this activity in the wet heath. The common appears to be of excellent interest and it is strongly recommended that a strategy be developed for the safeguard and extension of heathland on the site.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted: Woodpigeon, Swallow, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff.
Rabbit. 
Anthills. 
Previous records for Blackcap, Wren, Whitethroat and Small Copper, Small Skipper, Common Blue, Meadow Brown, Ringlet, Marbled White and Gatekeeper  (see sources).

VEG:
The common now consists of three sections as a result of changes to its boundaries following a road improvement scheme. The W unit has much species-rich marshy grassland with Filipendula ulmaria, Juncus acutiflorus, Achillea ptarmica, Vicia cracca, Deschampsia cespitosa, Pulicaria dysenterica, Cirsium palustre and Lotus uliginosus most prominent, but also Eupatorium cannabinum, Carex otrubae, C. nigra, C. hirta, Juncus inflexus, J. conglomeratus, Dactylorhiza fuchsii and Silaum silaus (both locally frequent) Silene dioica, Angelica sylvestris, Myosotis sp., Hypericum tetrapterum, Calystegia sepium, Rumex acetosa, Galium verum, Listera ovata, Potentilla anserina, Mentha aquatica, Galium palustre, G. mollugo, Lonicera periclymenum, Senecio erucifolius and Dryopteris filix-mas. Scrub is scattered throughout with Bramble frequent and Hazel, Ash, Field Maple and Blackthorn also. Scrub is denser to the W in one area, being associated with tall herb vegetation of Epilobium hirsutum, Urtica dioica, Cirsium arvense, Solidago canadensis and Pteridium aquilinum. In the far W is dense scrub of Blackthorn, Field Maple, Crab Apple and Salix cinerea with young trees of Ash and English Oak. Beside this is a complex area including a little dense Bracken scattered scrub and marshy grassland somewhat similar to that above but taller and including Lychnis flos-cuculi, Scrophularia auriculata and Potentilla erecta with previous records also for Cardamine pratensis, Adoxa moschatellina, Montia fontana and Ajuga reptans (see sources). Area (A) is a steep bank with grassland and a derelict hedgerow of Ash, Dogwood, Field Maple, Hazel, Blackthorn and a Horse Chestnut. The grassland is disturbed but species-rich, with several species of note common to the adjacent area (B), notably Oenanthe pimpinelloides which is locally abundant. The third parcel of land consists of area (B) and a part of the old CL 14, W of Beech Lane which has not been destroyed by the roadworks. This is mostly neglected coppice of Ash (15m canopy) and Hazel with Hawthorn, Field Maple and Guelder Rose, with ground flora of Mercurialis perennis, Melica uniflora, Lamiastrum galeobdolon, Carex pendula, Silene dioica, Geum urbanum, Veronica chamaedrys, Conopodium majus, Circaea lutetiana, Adoxa moschatellina, Dryopteris filix-mas, Ranunculus ficaria, Asplenium scolopendrium and Hyacinthoides non-scripta. An access road has disturbed the wood and given rise to some Urtica dioica tall herb beside a dump. Area (B) consists of two species-rich fields; the smaller to the E has MG5 grassland with  Cynosurus cristatus, Poa spp., Lolium perenne, Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Ranunculus acris, Prunella vulgaris, Plantago lanceolata, Achillea millefolium, Centaurea nigra, Heracleum sphondylium and Taraxacum officinale agg. most frequent, but also Festuca pratensis, Dactylis glomerata, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Ranunculus repens, Bellis perennis, Senecio jacobaea, Cerastium fontanum, Malva moschata, Agrimonia eupatoria, Lotus corniculatus, Leucanthemum vulgare, Crepis vesicaria, Rumex acetosa, Potentilla reptans, Hypochoeris radicata, Leontodon hispidus, L. autumnalis, Vicia cracca, Lathyrus pratensis, Carex hirta, Primula veris, Plantago media, Oenanthe pimpinelloides and rather rare Silaum silaus, Knautia arvensis and Galium verum. It is richest in species at the foot of the slope beside the stream. The other field has a neglected, tall sward, somewhat similar to the previous but with an element of Arrhenatheretum species and still species rich. Included are: Oenanthe pimpinelloides (abundant), Alopecurus pratensis, Holcus lanatus, Arrhenatherum elatius, Leucanthemum vulgare, Lathyrus pratensis and Ranunculus acris (all frequent), Silaum silaus, Rumex sanguineus, Primula veris, Veronica chamaedrys, Vicia sepium, Heracleum sphondylium, Cirsium spp. and Urtica dioica. A gappy hedge of Hawthorn  separates the two fields, and there is light scrub of Blackthorn and Bramble and a small area of dense Bracken around the margins.

MANAGE:
Currently the only areas being managed appear to be the two fields of area (B) which are undergoing light horse-grazing.
Management prescriptions have already been made for enhancing wildlife interest over the W section of the common (see sources). An additional concern now is that the impeded drainage upon which the diversity of the marshy grassland depends is not affected by the drainage channels which have been dug in the course of the road improvement scheme. It is also important to ensure that encroachments from this scheme are kept to a minimum.
The exchanged land, somewhat surprisingly, is of excellent nature conservation interest and should be managed to enhance this. The best way would be to manage the two fields together for hay in such a way that exchange of species between the two might be possible (e.g. by clearing a small section of hedge so that cutters could pass freely from one to the other). A cut in early August could then be followed by grazing in the traditional manner.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Buzzard, Swallow, Blue Tit, Robin, Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, Starling, House Sparrow, Magpie, Jackdaw.
Common Shrew, Rabbit, Badger (sett at ST 473147 just off site). 
Site may also be of value for feeding bats with at least 2 spp reported by local people. 
Slow Worm. Large White, Brown Argus, Anthills.
Coleoptera: Lampyris noctiluca (also reported by local people).

VEG:
Most of the common has neglected semi-improved grassland which a few calcicolous elements at its E end. Most frequent are Poa spp., Festuca rubra, Dactylis glomerata, Lolium perenne, Arrhenatherum elatius, Trisetum flavescens, Bromus hordeaceus, Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Veronica chamaedrys, Achillea millefolium and Urtica dioica. Also present are Taraxacum officinale agg., Bromus sterilis, Plantago lanceolata, Sisymbrium officinale, Anthriscus sylvestris, Allium vineale, Artemisia vulgaris, Geranium molle, Cirsium arvese, Vicia sativa, Crepis vesicaria, Convolvulus arvensis and Hypochoeris radicata. Calcicoles on the steeper banks in the E are Carduus nutans, Thymus praecox, Lotus corniculatus, Cirsium acaule, Galium verum, Calamintha sylvatica ssp. ascendens, Hieracium pilosella, Myosotis ramosissima and Inula conyza (most are rather rare). Also found here are Sherardia arvensis, Agrimonia eupatoria, Aphanes arvensis, Galium mollugo, Ranunculs bulbosus, Digitalis purpure, Phleum bertolonii, Arenaria serpyllifolia, Ballota nigra, Verbascum thapsus and the declining Petroselinum segetum (occasional beside road toward E). Ash, Field Maple, Sycamore and ornamental Cherry and conifer are scattered throughout, with Ulex europaeus, Elder and Bramble scrub in the E. A wall at the top of the slope has Umbilicus rupestris, Desmazeria rigida and Asplenium adiantum-nigrum. The local Rumex pulcher occurs just off site at ST 473147. Hyoscyamus niger has been recorded before.

MANAGE:
The site is sheep grazed for a few weeks only each summer, some times not at all. At time of survey stock had been released late onto tall grassland which had become trampled and left to die down. Grazing should be timed from the beginning of the growing season with any previous seasons rank growth removed. Failing this a cut could be made in the less steep areas with the clippings removed followed by grazing. No more trees should be planted on the common and car-parking on it should be discouraged as far as possible.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted: Pheasant, Woodpigeon, Swift, Greater Spotted Woodpecker, Skylark, Swallow, Wren, Blue & Great Tits, Dunnock, Robin, Song Thrush, Blackbird, Blackcap, Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, Starling, Chaffinch, Linnet, Yellowhammer, Carrion Crow, Magpie. 
Rabbit. 
Large Skipper, Small Tortoiseshell, Meadow Brown, Marbled White, Small White, Five-spot Burnet, Cinnabar. 1987 records for Small Skipper, Peacock and Six-spot burnet also (see sources). 
Odonata: Pyrrhosoma nymphula, Enallagma cyathigerum.

VEG:
S of the main road and E of the brook lies a complex mosaic of dense bracken, with small areas of damp acidic grassland and wet heath, with scattered and dense scrub and scattered trees. A clearing to the S centre  has dense bracken with the following associates which are typical:  Frequent or locally frequent Molinia caerulea, Ulex gallii, Agrostis canina, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Rubus fruticosus agg. and Cirsium dissectum, and also C. palustre, Juncus effusus, J. conglomeratus, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, G. uliginosum, Lonicera periclymenum, Luzula multiflora, Lotus uliginosus, Stachys officinalis, Serratula tinctoria, Succisa pratensis, Listera ovata, Dactylorhiza maculata, Carex hostiana, C. binervis, Hypericum tetrapterum, Stellaria graminea, Pulicaria dysenterica and Angelica sylvestris. In the centre lies an area of wet heath dominated by Molinia caerulea with several of the above species and Erica tetralix. Rides and very damp places may also have Ranunculus flammula, Juncus bufonius, J. articulatus, Alopecurus geniculatus, Achillea ptarmica, Deschampsia cespitosa, Hydrocotyle vulgaris (rare), Mentha aquatica, Scutellaria galericulata and Galium palustre with Filipendula ulmaria, Epilobium hirsutum, Glyceria spp. (including G. declinata), Nasturtium officinale and Polygonum hydropiper flanking the streams. Drier grassland around the periphery includes Centaurea nigra, Leontodon hispidus, Rumex acetosa, Odontites verna, Trifolium medium and Dactylorhiza fuchsii (locally frequent). Scrub and scattered trees are of Birch, Hawthorn, English Oak and Salix cinerea; where denser, this passes to Ash/Oak wood with some old Hazel coppice, Spindle, Hawthorn and Wild Privet (rare). The most developed wood in the S has sparse ground flora including Hedera helix, Pteridium aquilinum, Lonicera periclymenum, Rubus fruticosus agg., Poa nemoralis, Primula vulgaris, Geranium robertianum and Stellaria holostea. The epiphytic lichen flora appears quite good with Evernia prunastri Parmelia sp., Usnea sp., Hypogymnia physodes and H. tubulosa. The scrub at (1) is of dense Ulex europaeus. Open grassland dominates the W. The S/central areas are acidic, with Festuca rubra and Agrostis capillaris dominant and much Holcus lanatus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Succisa pratensis, Stachys officinalis, Hypochoeris radicata and Pseudoscleropodium purum. Also present are Danthonia decumbens, Agrostis canina, A. curtisii (very locally dominant), Polygala serpyllifolia, Pedicularis sylvatica, Achillea millefolium, Pimpinella saxifraga, Leontodon hispidus, Plantago lanceolata, Dactylorhiza maculata, Gnaphalium uliginosum, Conopodium majus, Carex pilulifera, Hieracium pilosella, Veronica officinalis, Luzula campestris and Lotus uliginosus. Calluna vulgaris is rare at ST 151288 and there is a large standard Oak nearby. Further N the swards are more mesotrophic (although there are local intermediates) tending in places to MG5. Present may be Cynosurus cristatus, Centaurea nigra, Trisetum flavescens, Lolium perenne, Phleum pratense s.l., Holcus lanatus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Trifolium pratense, T. repens, Leucanthemum vulgare, Leontodon hispidus, Plantago lanceolata, Rumex acetosa, Agrimonia eupatoria, Senecio jacobaea, Lotus corniculatus, Silaum silaus (rare), Malva moschata, Carex flacca, Galium verum, Briza media and Linum catharticum. There is a morphological range in the Dactylorhiza species. Arrhenatherum elatius grassland may occur in places, as does poorer MG6 grassland in the NW.  There are a few standard Ash, Oak and Horse Chestnut. There is mown grassland in the far NW and a pond with ornamentals including Gunnera sp. and Iris pseudacorus, Juncus inflexus, Nasturtium officinale, Nymphaea alba, Lemna minor and Crassula helmsii.
N of the main road which crosses the common the vegetation is similar to that to the S, but includes some tall herb vegetation of Epilobium hirsutum, Oenanthe crocata, Rumex spp., Torilis japonica. The scrub has much Blackthorn. A vestige of acidic grassland includes Potentilla x mixta/P. anglica and shaded road verges hold Carex otrubae, Clinopodium vulgare, Dactylorhiza fuchsii and Orchis mascula. SE of the Ulex scrub at (1) is an area of species-rich neutral grassland popular with butterflies which includes some Centaurium erythraea and much Trifolium medium. Other species present on the common include Hypericum pulchrum and Listera ovata.

MANAGE:
Most of the common is unmanaged, although the areas of grassland in the W are mown, presumably annually. Cutting of bracken in the S was recorded in 1987.
The site at present has a valuable mosaic of habitats which hold a large number of plant species, although it would perhaps be desirable to create more grassland habitat by clearing some bracken. Suitable areas would be those fringing the island of wet heath and amid the larger stands elsewhere. A commitment to biennial cutting over a period of several years, perhaps accompanied by the use of selective herbicides, would need to be made as one-off cuts are unlikely to have an effect on such well-established bracken. It is strongly recommended that the invertebrate interest on the common is investigated; it may prove sufficient to elevate this excellent, but borderline, site to SSSI status.


FAUNA:
Sources include the following data:  Buzzard, Sparrowhawk, Hobby, Merlin, Kestrel, Partridge, Tawny Owl, Nightjar, Cuckoo, Stock Dove; Greater Spotted Green and Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers; Tree Pipit, Grey Wagtail, Marsh Tit, Nuthatch, Dipper; Pied & Spotted Flycatchers; Garden Wood & Grasshopper Warblers; Lesser Whitethroat, Redstart, Stonechat, Whinchat and Raven breed or have bred. Goshawk, Firecrest, Dartford Warbler, Woodcock, Woodlark and Ring Ouzel visit. 
Red Deer, Rabbit. Adder, Grass Snake, Slow Worm, Common Lizard, Palmate Newt, Common Frog, Common Toad. 
Lepidoptera include Silver-washed Fritillary, Little Thorn, Lead-coloured Pug, Beautiful Snout and Olethreutes arcuella. 
Diptera include the very rare Hoverfly Microdon mutabilis and the notable species Metasyrphus nitens, Platypalpus cryptospina, Tachytrechus consobrinus and Tipula yerburyi. 
Coleoptera include 3 nationally rare dead wood beetles: Thymalus limbatus, Orchesia undulata and Rhinosimus ruficollis.

VEG:
What follows is an abstraction from the data in English Nature Files (q.v.): An extensive area of traditionally-managed heath communities is present. Dry heath is often dominated by Erica cinerea, Ulex gallii and Agrostis curtisii with smaller amounts of Calluna vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus, Polygala serpyllifolia, Carex binervis and Cuscuta epithymum. Elsewhere, as on moderatly well-drained soils on the plateau, Calluna vulgaris is dominant with abundant Vaccinium myrtillus and Deschampsia flexuosa, and also Festuca ovina, Melampyrum pratense, Pseudoscleropodium purum and Dicranum scoparium. Vaccinium vitis-idaea occurs at its most southerly British station (its only one in the county) and the declining Sagina subulata is also present in open areas. Wet heath communities are also dominated by Calluna, with abundant Molinia caerulea and Erica tetralix and some Vaccinium myrtillus and Deschampsia flexuosa. Trichophorum cespitosum, a scarce species in Somerset also occurs. Bracken is scattered throughout, but seldom achieves complete dominance and acidic flushes are also widespread. The latter may include Eriophorum angustifolium, Anagallis tenella, Eleocharis palustris, Drosera rotundifolia, Erica cinerea, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Narthecium ossifragum, Carex echinata, Nardus stricta, and Sphagnum spp. Much of the woodland on the common is ancient, although there are conifers at Dukes Plantation. Hodder's and Holford Combes, Five Lords and Shervage Wood are of Sessile Oak with Downy Birch, Holly, Rowan and Hawthorn in an understorey, and a ground flora including Deschampsia flexuosa, Vaccinium myrtillus, Melampyrum pratense, Luzula pilosa, Calluna and Lonicera periclymenum. Alder wood occurs alongside many of the streams. Scrub has developed on many parts of the hills, especially around the woodland margins. Scattered bushes of Holly, Hawthorn, Rowan, Sessile Oak and Downy Birch are frequent on less-exposed slopes. Rhododendron ponticum has colonised many areas, and now forms dense stands in one or two places, e.g. at Vinny Combe. The site is very important for its Lichen flora: Lobaria pulmonaria, Dimerella lutea, Calicium salicinum, Thelotrema lepadinum and Palmelia laevigata occur in Hodder's Combe. Other plants of note include the nationally scarce Sibthorpia europaea: Littorella uniflora, Dryopteris aemula and Hymenophyllum tunbridgense.

MANAGE:
The heathland on the site is the subject of a detailed management plan formulated in 1990 which aims to maintain the existing acreage of heath and enhance the structural diversity and variety of heath stands (including substantial areas of old, unburned Ling heath) whilst protecting sensitive habitats such as wet heath and mire. This is largely achieved through a burning plan; it is also recognised that there is a need to increase off-wintering of cattle over the next 4-5 years. In addition, control of invasive species, such as Rhododendron ponticum, is planned.
Much of the Sessile Oak Woodland was once managed as coppice for charcoal and as a source of bark for tanning, but this no longer occurs and the coppices are turning into high forest.


FAUNA:
Sources include references to the following:  Rookery, Nightingale, Grasshopper Warbler. 
Roe Deer. 
Adder, Grass Snake, Slow Worm, Common Lizard, Palmate Newt, Common Frog. 
Lepidoptera: 26 spp. of butterfly recorded including Silver-washed, High Brown Marsh and Small Pearl-bordered Fritillaries; Wood White, Marbled White, Brown & Purple Hairstreaks and Dingy Skipper.
Coleoptera: Ischnomera caerulea, Stenocorus meridianus and Mordellochroa abdominalis are of note. 
Hymenoptera: Vespa crabro.

VEG:
A summary of data in English Nature Files follows: Open areas in the N hold a mosaic of damp neutral grassland and wet heath. Molinia caerulea is dominant with Anthoxanthum odoratum, Briza media, Carex pulicaris, C.nigra, C. panicea, C. demissa, C. laevigata, Cirsium dissectum, Danthonia decumbens, Anagallis tenella, Succisa pratensis, Achillea ptarmica, Dactylorhiza praetermissa, D. fuchsii, Genista anglica, Serratula tinctoria, Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix, Ulex gallii and Sphagnum spp. The nationally scarce Viola lactea is found in two places. In many areas, dense Bracken has succeeded in this vegetation; it has a few associates such as Dryopteris affinis, Juncus spp., Deschampsia cespitosa, Lotus uliginosus and Stachys officinalis. Scrub of Birch, Hawthorn, Elder, Blackthorn and Goat Willow is also widespread. Coram's Wood is ancient, dominated by Ash with English Oak and some planted Beech. Hazel is the dominant shrub with Field Maple, Holly, Hawthorn, Spindle, Dogwood and Guelder Rose also. Ground flora includes Anemone nemorosa, Lamiastrum galeobdolon, Galium odoratum, Melica uniflora, Listera ovata and Sanicula europaea.  Woodland is secondary elsewhere, of Ash and Oak with Alder, Beech, Goat Willow, Birch and Cherry locally. Ground flora includes Caltha palustris where wet. An area of semi-improved acidic grassland in the SE is used as a cricket square. Poa trivialis, Lolium perenne and Agrostis capillaris are dominant; other species include Lotus corniculatus, Leontodon autumnalis, Hypochoeris radicata, Trifolium dubium and T. micranthum.

MANAGE:
The common is now managed as a nature reserve by STNC, with the exception of the SE area (cricket square). Management efforts are being targeted towards maintenance and extension of the heath areas, involving swiping Molinia, cutting Bracken, clearing scrub, and felling birch and White Poplar using voluntary labour. Removal of all cut material (excepting some dead wood) is necessary to prevent build up of soil fertility. Sheep grazing has recently been reintroduced.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Moorhen, Pheasant, Woodpigeon, Swallow, Wren, Robin, Blackbird, Blue Tit, Linnet, Rook, Jackdaw. 
Silver Y, Speckled Wood, Wall Brown, Gatekeeper, Common Blue. 
English Nature files include the following records: up to 29 butterflies possibly breeding include Silver-washed, Dark Green, Small pearl-bordered and Pearl-bordered Fritillaries (High Brown Fritillary also recorded). Green and Purple Hairstreaks, Brown Argus, Grayling, Dingy and Grizzled Skippers, Marbled White and the nationally notable moths Adscita geryon and Aleucis distinctata. 
Odonata: several species recorded from a small pond at ST 468571. 
Coleoptera: the notable leaf beetles Aphthona herbigrada, Chrysolina violacea, Cryptocephalus bipunctatus and Mantura matthewsi occur, and the two empid flies Gloma fuscipennis and Oropezella sphenoptera. 57 spp. of spiders have been recorded. Most of the invertebrate interest is restricted to the limestone slopes of Burrington Coombe. Three of the several caves on the site are important for their bat hibernacula; these include Greater and Lesser Horseshoe Bats. There is also a record for Plecotus auritus.

VEG:
The common is divided into four for the purposes of description: 

Havyatt Green. 
The Green consists almost entirely of poor semi-improved grassland. Abundant are Lolium perenne, Poa trivialis, Dactylis glomerata and Trifloium repens with Ranunculus bulbosus, R. acris, Festuca rubra, Alopecurus pratensis, Cirsium arvense, Taraxacum officinale agg., Achillea millefolium and Plantago major also prominent in places. Rumex acetosa, Galium verum, Potentilla reptans, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Festuca pratensis, Cerastium fontanum, Urtica dioica, Leontodon autumnalis and Bellis perennis are rare. A small area of marginally more diverse grassland occurs on low banks in the SW, with Potentilla x mixta, Lotus corniculatus, Leucanthemum vulgare, Briza media, Centaurea nigra and Agrimonia eupatoria. In the vicinity is a transition to marshy grassland/tall herb vegetation including Carex hirta, Agrostis stolonifera, Juncus inflexus, J. articulatus, Potentill anserina, Cardamine pratensis, Luzula campestris, Festuca pratensis, Lathyrus pratensis, Oenanthe crocata, Urtica dioica and Galium aparine. The stream margins have Glyceria spp., Nasturtium officinale, Apium nodiflorum, Veronica beccabunga, Epilobium hirsutum and Oenanthe crocata. A few scattered Beech trees are present W of the road.  

Langford Green. 
A small area of semi-improved neutral grassland is present, disturbed in the past and now MG1 grassland, except where mown. Species include Agrimonia eupatoria, Lotus corniculatus, Trifolium pratense, Lathyrus pratensis, Heracleum sphondylium and Potentilla anserina. Beech and Oak standards are also present.  

Burrington Ham & Burrington Combe. 
The notes which follow have been taken largely from English Nature files (q.v.).  The Combe supports rock outcrops with scrub and species-rich calcicolous grassland over the cliffs and screes. Scrub is composed of Wild Privet, Wayfaring Tree, Hazel, Dogwood, Hawthorn, Whitebeam, Holly and Yew with much Clematis vitalba. Grassland is fragmented CG3A and includes Sanguisorba minor, Centaurea spp., Helianthemum nummularia, Thymus praecox, T. pulegioides, Orgiganum vulgare, Carlina vulgaris and the introduced Centranthus ruber. The rare bryophytes Gymnostomum viridulum and Cephaloziella calyculata are also present. On the  plateau the grassland becomes more acidic in character, dominated by Agrostis capillaris, and includes small areas of limestone heath, where calcicoles are mixed with Ulex gallii, Erica cinerea and a little Calluna vulgaris. Most of the plateau is dense bracken however, with scattered trees of Ash, Hawthorn and Sycamore. The Ham is edged with dense scrub of Hawthorn and a little Ashwood in NW and SE.

Blackdown. 
Above c. 300m there is dry heath of Calluna vulgaris, often overwhelmingly dominant,  but with occasional Erica cinerea, E. tetralix, Molinia caerulea, Vaccinium myrtillus and Deschampsia cespitosa. In some places this is fringed by a more variable mosiac of heath and grassland, where any of the above species may be dominant. Other species here include Agrostis capillaris, A. vinealis, Ulex gallii, Cytisus scoparius, Rubus fruticosus agg., Chamaenerion angustifolium, Digitalis purpurea, Carex binervis, C. pilulifera, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta, Danthonia decumbens, Pedicularis sylvatica, Luzula multiflora and Dryopteris dilatata. Trichophorum cespitosum occurs in limited amounts at ST 487570 beside a path. Paths through the heath may hold Juncus bufonius, J. articulatus, J. squarrosus, Carex demissa and Gnaphalium uliginosum. Surrounding the heath on most of the hill is dense bracken, with deep litter and few associates. On the lower slopes there are scattered trees, or scattered scrub of Hawthorn, Rowan and Salix cinerea. There are a few acidic flushes, only one of which was visited. This held dominant Juncus acutiflorus, J. effusus, Lotus uliginosus, Molinia caerulea, Cirsium palustre, Ranunculus flammula, Carex echinata, C. demissa, Luzula multiflora, Polytrichum commune, Sphagnum capillifolium, S. papillosum, S. auriculatum, Anagallis tenella, Athyrium filix-femina, Hieracium umbellatum and scattered scrub of Salix cinerea. Some of the rides through the bracken are broad and hold acidic grassland with heath vestiges, in several places with a large, glandular Euphrasia sp. (possibly E. rostkoviana ssp. rostkoviana, determination awaited at time of writing), Carex panicea, Polygala serpyllifolia, Campanula rotundifolia, Aira praecox, Potentilla erecta, Hypochoeris radicata and Leontodon autumnalis. 
The N end of east Twin Brook is steeply incised and has a good flora of lower plants, including Blechnum spicant, Asplenium trichomanes, Polypodium interjectum, Dryopteris dilatata, Athyrium filix-femina, Rhytidiadelphus loreus, Plagiochila asplenoides, Dicranum majus and Thamnobryum alopecurum, as well as Lathyrus montanus and Luzula pilosa.

MANAGE:
The current levels of grazing on the common is low, if present at all, few signs were evident at the time of survey. Scrub and tree clearance from the Combe has been undertaken, eg: in 1987-88, and clearance of firebreaks has also taken place in the vicinity of the Hillfort at ST 477587 and across the W end of Blackdown. Provision has been made for recreation in the area, in establishment  of car parks and a refreshment area at the foot of the Coombe. Clay pigeon shooting takes place. Bat grilles have been used on some of the hibernacula entrances. Parts of the woodlands were coppiced many years ago.

There is a comparatively large area of heather on this site, which is one of the largest single stands on Mendip. Mostly it is mature, about 2ft tall and as yet without many canopy gaps and large, collapsing bushes. It is even aged. It is suggested that central areas surrounded by paths - which can act as natural firebreaks - are left to become old and that the option of burning cyclically is considered elsewhere, in order to diversify heath structure and assist in control of bracken and scrub encroachment. The large areas of bracken are often homogenous and species-poor and planting of isolated native tree species on the central N slopes would increase the area of structurally more diverse bracken, of value to birds. Bracken clearance could be undertaken in some areas where a good heathland flora still remains beneath, as at ST 479569 and 474574, and where it is now shading out species-rich acidic flushes on the N facing slopes. It would be desirable to know if bracken is in fact increasing at the expense of heath on this site. Extension of the existing SSSI to include the valuable large area of heathland with its acidic flushes is recommended.

Littering and bonfires beneath the scrub in the Coombe should be controlled as they are unsightly and encourage further abuse. Sensitive monitoring of litter bins might help. Ground flora also appears to have been eliminated through trampling in some places, possibly by visiting potholers. Further sward improvement on the two "Greens" should be resisted.


FAUNA:
Much data exists in source files which refer to this site in combination with CL 23 (q.v.). Most species listed here will have been recorded or are likely to occur. The molluscs Helicigona lapicida and Abida secale are known to be present.

VEG:
What follows had been mostly abstracted from the source documents (q.v.). 
The S half of the hill holds calcicolous grassland in which the scarce CG1e/CG1c  and the more widespread CG2a NVC types occur. The former is characterised by much Festuca ovina and Carlina vulgaris, with Thymus praecox, Sanguisorba minor, Cirsium acaule, Helianthemum nummularia, Carex flacca, Sedum acre, Asperula cynanchica and 3 RDB species: Koeleria vallesiana, Galium fleurotii and Dianthus gratianopolitanus (c. 200 plants in its most northwesterly station in Europe). Other scarce spp. are Poa subcaerulea, Potentilla tabernaemontani, the nationally scarce Cerastium pumilum and Torilis nodosa, which grows on dry banks in peripheral areas. The detatched area to the W has fine CG2a sward which includes Marrubium vulgare. Much of the grassland has scattered or dense scrub of Ulex europaeus, but also Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Rose and Elder. To the N and E the grassland becomes neutral/mildly acidic on the upper slopes. Agrostis capillaris and Calamagrostis epigejos are dominant. There is much dense Bracken to the E of the excluded area. In the N and W, scrub and true woodland are present, with Hazel, Ash, Sycamore and Hawthorn dominant. Rose Wood (not common) is hardly separable on the ground, but is ancient and includes Tilia cordata and Lithospermum purpureocaeruleum.

MANAGE:
The hill is grazed by sheep and cattle. Bracken and gorse are cut and burned e.g. in 1987. A NCC site report (late 80s) noted poached turf on the lower slopes where stock ascend the hill, but that overall overgrazing was not a problem. Gorse, Bramble, Bracken and Calamagrostis were being effectively grazed, although frequent fires had promoted vigorous gorse growth in places. A strategy for control of invasive species on this valuable site needs to be formulated. Upgrading of a footpath which crosses the best areas of grassland to a bridleway (Aug. 1991) will need to be very carefully monitored.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted: Heron, Moorhen, Mallard, Herring Gull, Skylark, Chiffchaff, Linnet, Carrion Crow. 
Hare. 
Small Heath. 
Sources also list the following probably present: Small and Large Skippers, Small Green-veined & Marbled Whites, Brown Argus, Common Blue, Peacock, Small Tortoiseshell, Meadow Brown. Fox, Rabbit, Hedgehog, Bank & Field Voles, Common Shrew, Wood Mouse.

VEG:
The common is covered in semi-improved neutral grassland dominated by Lolium perenne, Cynosurus cristatus and Poa trivialis. Frequent are Cirsium arvense, C. vulgare, Trifolium repens, Ranunculus acris, Holcus lanatus and Festuca rubra; also present are Rumex crispus, Alopecurus pratensis, Dactylis glomerata, Hordeum secalinum, Festuca pratensis, Juncus inflexus, Urtica dioica, Trisetum flavescens, Trifolium pratense and Bellis perennis. A cattle pond at one end has Alopecurus geniculatus, Juncus inflexus, Glyceria sp. and Ranunculus sect. Batrachium. Fringing rhynes include Phragmites australis, Glyceria fluitans, Ranunculus sceleratus, Potamogeton pectinatus, Alopecurus geniculatus, A. x hybridus and Lemna minor. S facing boundary banks beside the rhynes have dry, open, poached soils which hold Torilis nodosa and Trifolium squamosum (frequent), Desmazeria rigida, Lotus corniculatus, Medicago arabica and the declining Petroselinum segetum (occasional). The far E of the site is badly cattle-poached, whilst a band nearest the sea has had a seawall recently constructed on it (1989) with resown grassland, concrete blocks and a fence.

MANAGE:
The common is cattle grazed. Stocking rate is quite high, and there are many thistles. Cattle are probably important in keeping the bank vegetation open, which includes populations of two scarce species. Sward improvement should be resisted.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Heron, Woodpigeon, Skylark, Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler, House Sparrow, Carrion Crow. 
Sources also list the following from the S boundary drain: RDB beetle Haliplus mucronatus; the notable snail Gyraulus laevis and the mayfly Caenis robusta. Mink. Small Skipper, Small & Green-veined Whites, Meadow Brown occur and Fox, Hare, Hedgehog, Rabbit, Field & Bank voles, Common Shrew and Wood Mouse occur in the area.

VEG:
The W of the site is heavily grazed, and appears to hold improved Poa-Lolietum grassland, with few additional species, but including Hordeum secalinum, Alopecurus pratensis, Holcus lanatus, Cynosurus cristatus, Bellis perennis and Trifolium repens. Where edging onto rhynes, there may be a little Juncus inflexus, Galium palustre, Myosotis scorpioides and Ranunculus sceleratus, and boundary hedges, partly defunct, have Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Dogwood and Dog Rose. The E end of the moor has semi-improved grassland, poor in forbs, but with a high diversity of grass species: Lolium perenne, Cynosurus cristatus, Poa spp., Hordeum secalinum, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Alopecurus pratensis, Festuca rubra, F. pratensis, Trisetum flavescens, Holcus lanatus, Alopecurus geniculatus (local) and Gaudinia fragilis (locally frequent). Rumex acetosa, Trifolium pratense, T. repens, Ranunculus acris and Silaum silaus (occasional).

MANAGE:
The common is cattle-grazed, with the central fenced-off triangle probably cut for hay also. The W section may have been fertilised at some stage in the past, and in fact the CEGB survey of 1986 listed the whole of North Moor as reseeded grassland. Although this is not the case, the swards in the E with their very high grass diversity, but low forb diversity, may have recieved some treatment, though the precise nature of this is unclear. Alternatively it is likely that a long period of heavy grazing had occurred which has impoverished the forb diversity, and that resumption of management for hay is fairly recent. It may be that a very detailed survey of the heavily grazed grassland to the W would reveal it too to be unimproved, and that its impoverished nature was simply the effect of heavy grazing. Future management of the site should not include further sward improvement or protracted periods of long grazing - continuing management for hay throughout is recommended; both Silaum silaus and Gaudinia fragilis are species of conservation importance.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Swallow, Yellowhammer, Linnet, Chaffinch.  
Small White.
Coleoptera: Pyrochroa coccinea.

VEG:
Two semi-improved fields, of which the S was mown at the time of survey, form the CL unit. Prominent in the grazed aftermath were Lolium perenne, Poa trivialis, Holcus lanatus, Ranunculus repens, Trifolium repens, Rumex obtusifolius and Cirsium arvense; the uncut field is probably similar, with Festuca pratensis, Phleum pratense, Alopecurus pratensis, Dactylis glomerata, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Hordeum secalinum, Rumex acetosa, Potentilla reptans, Trifolium pratense, Geranium dissectum, Gaudinia fragilis (very locally frequent?) and Lathyrus pratensis also. The CEGB survey also yielded records for Cynosurus cristatus, Centaurea nigra, Prunella vulgaris, Trisetum flavescens, Silaum silaus and Lotus corniculatus in the S field. A boundary ditch separating the two fields has Phragmites australis, Nasturtium officinale, Apium nodiflorum, Oenanthe crocata, Solanum dulcamara, Carex otrubae, Juncus inflexus, Glyceria sp. and Callitriche sp. Boundary hedges hold Blackthorn, Bramble, English Elm and Dog Rose with tall herb/rank grassland, including Conium maculatum, Epilobium hirsutum, Sison amomum (locally frequent) Urtica dioica, Phalaris arundinacea and Vicia cracca.

MANAGE:
The S field had received a hay cut, and the aftermath was being cattle-grazed. The N field was also being grazed. Comparison of the CEGB survey results and those from the brief survey made here suggest a decline in forb diversity in the S field. The former survey, however, mapped the N field as reseeded, which it does not appear to be; the hay cuts and heavy grazing may have made assessment of floral diversity difficult on both occasions. Whatever the case, there should be no sward improvements made to the site.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted: Heron, Kestrel, Ringed Plover, Oystercatcher, Black-headed & Herring Gulls, Cuckoo, Woodgpigeon, Swallow, House Martin, Meadow Pipit, Skylark, Chiffchaff, Linnet, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, House Sparrow, Starling, Carrion Crow. Small Heath, Large White. ISR lists several species from this site including the flies Dexiopsis lacustris, Nemotelus notatus, Odontomyia tigrina, Orthoceratium lacustre, Scoliocentra caesia & Thinophilus flavipalpis. The local beetle Atheta pallidicornis also occurs.

VEG:
Catsford and Wall commons hold a range of maritime habitats. Catsford is fronted seawards by shingle banks which include Geranium robertianum, Carduus tenuiflorus, Torilis nodosa, Rubus fruticosus agg., Sedum acre, Beta vulgaris ssp. maritima, Artemisia maritima, Galium aparine, Rumex crispus, Glaux maritima, Sagina maritima (ST 243452), Sonchus arvensis, Tripleurospermum maritimum, Elymus pycnanthus and Glaucium flavum (E of ST 243452). The flora suggests a fair degree of stability. Wall common has saltmarsh beyond the shingle ridges. Pioneering is scattered Spartina anglica; upper marsh is more diverse with much Puccinellia maritima, Festuca rubra and Glaux maritima but also Juncus gerardii locally, Suaeda maritima, Cochlearia anglica and Plantago maritima, with Elymus pycnanthus in the uppermost reaches. An area of bare sand at ST 260244 has pioneer marsh of Salicornia sp. and in the far E a belt of Phragmites australis occurs in the upper marsh. This area is also of interest for holding the only dune communities on site scrub of Hippophae rhamnoides and Elder with grassland including Festuca rubra, Arrhenatherum elatius, Poa spp., Trisetum flavescens, Dactylis glomerata, Phleum bertolonii, Holcus lanatus, Plantago lanceolata, Achillea millefolium, Galium verum, Lotus corniculatus, Vicia sativa, Ononis repens, Carex arenaria and ? Calystegia soldanella. On the bulk of Wall Common, gabions (which have Hyoscyamus niger at ST 265245) or artificial seawall separate saltmarsh from grazing marsh. This has dominant Festuca rubra with much Agrostis stolonifera, Potentilla anserina and the nationally scarce Alopecurus bulbosus but also Cirsium arvense, Trifolium pratense, Poa spp., Hordeum secalinum, Bromus hordeaceus, Elymus repens and Cerastium fontanum. Close to the sea halophytes such as Glaux and Juncus gerardii are occasional and Elymus pycnanthus occurs in mixtures with E. repens possibly hybridising. Drains may have Spergularia spp. and Aster tripolium. Most of Catsford Common by contrast has grazed saltmarsh with a tidal ditch and some lagoons. The saltmarsh is of Festuca rubra and includes Plantago coronopus, Glaux maritima, Atriplex sp., Spergularia sp., Agrostis stolonifera and occasional tussocks of Elymus pycnanthus. Inundation by saltwater is probably infrequent; low, well-vegetated shingle ridges within the marsh hold Hordeum marinum, Sagina maritima and a range of small clovers: Trifolium ornithopodioides, T. squamosum, T. micranthum, T. campestris, Medicago arabica and M. lupulina. The nationally scarce Marrubium vulgare also occurs on such shingle (see map). About 135 plants were counted. An unsurfaced track runs the length of the common on top of a shingle sea-defence. This holds a mix of Bramble scrub with a few trees of Hawthorn and Elder, Festuca rubra dominated grassland, ruderals and maritime species such as Carduus tenuiflorus and Elymus pycnanthus. In two main areas neutral grassland of Festuca rubra, Poa spp., Cynosurus cristatus and Hordeum secalinum lies behind this defence. One has a manmade lagoon with Potamogeton pectinatus, Ranunculus ? baudotii, Phragmites australis and Scirpus maritimus.
Goose Marsh is poor semi-improved grassland of Festuca rubra, Lolium perenne, Hordeum secalinum, Poa spp., Cirsium arvense, Urtica dioica, Potentilla anserina, Trifolium repens and Cynosurus cristatus. Defunct ditches within it have a little Glaux maritima, Alopecurus geniculatus, A. bulbosus and Juncus gerardii. The S boundary rhyne has much Azolla filiculoides. North Ham has been influenced by the construction of a massive new seawall. Improved grassland remains which retains a halophytic element: Alopecurus bulbosus (frequent), Hordeum marinum, Spergularia sp. and Atriplex sp. with some ruderal vegetation and bare soil. Ditches generally have Scirpus maritimus.
The site may be an interesting one on which to observe hybridisation/niche partitionment between grasses. Elymus  spp.(repens and pycnanthus), Alopecurus spp.(geniculatus and bulbosus) and Hordeum spp.(Secalinum, murinum and marinum) were all found growing in close proximity or intimate mixtures and morphological intermediates observed in some cases, though this may be due to soil factors.

MANAGE:
The whole area is sheep-grazed, including the saltmarsh. Rabbits also graze the common. Goose Marsh has been heavily improved, including a dressing of nitrate in spring 1991, and thistles were topped in 1990 (Dowdens Farm pers. comm). Much of the shoreline in the W has been affected by new sea defences constructed in 1989 (The whole area was severely flooded in 1981). Management should continue as at present, with further sward improvement resisted.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Lapwing, Wren, Chiffchaff.
Meadow Brown.

VEG:
The most species-rich grassland lies N of the central road; Most of the data for the area has been abstracted from English Nature files. The sward is dominated by Festuca rubra, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Dactylis glomerata and Holcus lanatus with Briza media, Bromus hordeaceus and Trisetum flavescens. Also present are Carex hirta, C. nigra, C. ovalis, C. otrubae, Achillea millefolium, Lotus corniculatus, Centaurea nigra, Hypochoeris radicata, Silaum silaus, Succisa pratensis, Leucanthemum vulgare, Cirsium dissectum and Stachys officinalis. Damp areas hold Pulicaria dysenterica, Lychnis floscuculi, Angelica sylvestris, Lathyrus pratensis and Vicia cracca. Some areas have Potentilla erecta, Ulex gallii and Danthonia decumbens. The area S of the road is not so species-rich. It had been cut at time of survey, but appears to be dominated by Poa spp., Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Agrostis stolonifera and Bromus hordeacus with Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Plantago lanceolata, Lathyrus pratensis, Rumex acetosa, Ranunculus acris, R. repens and Filipendula ulmaria, whilst Rumex obtusifolius, Heracleum sphondylium and Glechoma hederacea suggest that the sward had become rank in the past. Flanking the road which crosses the common is a gappy hedge and a ditch which holds damp MG1 grassland and tall herb including Mentha aquatica, Juncus conglomeratus, J. articulatus, Ranunculus flammula and Carex flacca. Tall herb also occurs in the W of Cirsium arvense, Heracleum sphondylium, Chamaenerion angustifolium, Filipendula ulmaria and Urtica dioica, with much scrub of Bramble, Hawthorn, Elder and Ulex europaeus. Two detatched areas lie in the E; The S one has a thick hedge of Hazel, Blackthorn, Dogwood, Elder, Dog Rose, English Elm with English Oak standards and Salix cinerea, Clematis vitalba and Lonicera periclymenum. Associated is a band of Arrhenatherum elatius grassland which includes Lathyrus pratensis, Lotus corniculatus, Prunella vulgaris, Geranium dissectum ,Phleum bertolonii and Vicia cracca. The N piece of land also has MG1 grassland, with a spinney of English Oak, Elder, Hazel, Blackthorn and Alder and a central clearing with tall herb including Conium maculatum and Artemisia vulgaris. In the far W of the site, by Woolston Grange is a small area of Alder Wood with Hawthorn and English Elm shading a stream, and a ground flora including Mercurialis perennis,  Hedera helix, Geranium robertianum, Carex remota, C. pendula, Urtica dioica and Dryopteris dilatata, with Angelica sylvestris, Oenanthe crocata, Apium nodiflorum and Iris pseudacorus beside the stream.

MANAGE:
The N part of the site, which lies within the SSSI, is managed for hay. S of the road the grassland is also cut, presumably for  hay. It had been allowed to become rank up until the mid 1980's, but was then topped, and farmyard manure was applied.This management should continue, without any further attempt to improve either block of grassland. If both are repeatedly cut as one unit as far as possible an increased species-richness in the S field will almost certainly develop. Non-intervention in the other areas is recommended.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Moorhen, Woodpigeon, Swallow, Skylark, Starling, Chaffinch.  The common is a part of an grade C ISR site which has records for the RDB beetle Haliplus mucronatus. Berosus affinis, Enochrus bicolor, Coccidula scutellata and Rhantus suturalis are other notable beetles present. Diptera: Odontomyia viridula.

VEG:
Semi-improved cattle grazed pasture covers the site which is traversed by ditches marked by gappy hedges. The grassland is rich MG6/poor MG5 and contains much Lolium perenne, Cynosurus cristatus, Alopecurus pratensis, Dactylis glomerata and Poa spp. with Hordeum secalinum, Alopecurus geniculatus, Trisetum flavescens, Festuca rubra, Cirsium vulgare, C. arvense, Carduus tenuiflorus (rare), Ranunculus bulbosus, R. acris, Bellis perennis, Achillea millefolium, Lotus corniculatus, Lathyrus pratensis, Heracleum sphondylium and Trifolium spp.  Part of the site was not surveyed but appeared to hold vegetation similar to the preceeding. Beside the rhynes are either species-poor hedges of Blackthorn, Hawthorn, Dog Rose and Bramble (with some Rubia peregrina present), or on S facing banks open poached grassland on dry friable soil with abundant Torilis nodosa and Medicago arabica, M. lupulina, Geranium dissectum, Crepis capillaris, the nationally scarce Trifolium squamosum and the declining Petroselinum segetum. Drains may have Phragmites australis, Solanum dulcamara, Veronica catenata, Juncus inflexus, Lemna minor, Apium nodiflorum, Berula erecta, Oenanthe crocata and Alisma plantago-aquatica, with some Scirpus maritimus in the one which defines the N boundary.

MANAGE:
The common is quite heavily cattle-grazed and badly poached in areas. A reduction in stocking density might benefit the pasture overall though cattle probably play a part in keeping open the dry banks with their populations of two rare species.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted.  Kestrel, Woodpigeon, Sedge Warbler, Starling, Yellowhammer, Carrion Crow. 
Rabbit. 
Meadow Brown. 
Odonata: Libellula quadrimaculata, Enallagma cyathigerum. Brachytron pratense & Sympetrum  sanguineum are also present.  
The droves fall within an extensive SSSI with records for the rare beetles Haliplus mucronatus and Hydrophilus piceus. 
Diptera: Stratiomys furcata. 
Otter. Grass Snake, Common Frog.

VEG:
Much of the grassland on this site is either disturbed, or rather species-poor in contrast to the drove system of CL 53 1 mile to the E, which is for the most part ungrazed. Grassland is often of the MG7/MG6 types, damp, with Lolium perenne, Cynosurus cristatus, Poa spp., Trifolium repens, Taraxacum officinale agg., Plantago major, Matricaria matricarioides and Polygonum aviculare s.l. Many places have tall herb vegetation of Cirsium arvense and Urtica dioica, often with Epilobium hirsutum, Cirsium vulgare, Carduus acanthoides, Conium maculatum, Filipendula ulmaria, Rumex spp. or Rubus fruticosus agg., and MG1 sepcies such as Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus and Deschampsia cespitosa. Also present are Hordeum murinum, Stellaria graminea, Ranunculus acris, R. repens, Stachys sylvatica, Potentilla anserina, P.reptans, Dipsacus fullonum, Arctium minus and Juncus effusus. More herb-rich grassland occurs in a few places and includes Achillea millefolium, Bellis perennis, Tragopogon pratensis, Leucanthemum vulgare, Rumex acetosa, Trifolium pratense, Lotus corniculatus, Vicia cracca, Hypochoeris radicata, Hypericum tetrapterum and Glechoma hederacea. Hedges which define the droves in places are for the most part species-poor with Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Dog Rose and Elder. Tree planting has taken place in some areas with Silver Birch, Pine, Osier, Alder, Ash, English Oak and Crack Willow. The rhynes and rhyne-banks are the richest part of the site. Juncus effusus, J. inflexus, Pulicaria dysenterica, Carex otrubae, Equisetum palustre, E. fluviatile, Galium elongatum, Scrophularia auriculata, Phalaris arundinacea, Iris pseudacorus, Lythrum salicaria, Lotus uliginosus, Lemna minor, L.trisulca and Thalictrum flavum (rather rare and local) are amongst the species present. There is much bare peat and ruderal vegetation on the site.

MANAGE:
The broader droves are cattle grazed. All probably receive some intermittent grazing by cattle going to and from pasture, and the resulting effect of the concentration of many animals on a comparatively narrow corridor of soft peat has no doubt been responsible for the local severe poaching and establishment of much tall ruderal vegetation. A few Crack Willows on the site are pollarded. The extensive dumping of hardcore, rubble, agricultural machinery, spoiled straw and household refuse should be forcefully discouraged. Rhynes should be cleared sympatheticlly.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Swallow, House Martin. Large Skipper, Meadow Brown.  Odonata: Libellula quadrimaculata, Orthetrum cancellatum, Ischnura elegans, Coenagrion puella.  Stoneflies.

VEG:
Despite the name of the common, the boundaries shown in the CL register indicate that the site consists of one piece of land at Chilton Bridge and a stretch of the South Drain (Huntspill River) between Chilton and West Bridges. The former is an area of poor semi-improved pasture dominated by Lolium perenne, Poa trivilais and Cynosurus cristatus with Trifolium repens, Holcus lanatus, Cirsium arvense, Ranunculus acris, Polygonum persicaria, Taraxacum officinale agg., Bellis perennis and Alopecurus geniculatus. Road verges hold damp MG1 grassland including Epilobium hirsutum, Valeriana officinalis, Calystegia sepium, Deschampsia cespitosa, Urtica dioica, Filipendula ulmaria, Potentilla anserina, Phalaris arundinacea, Torilis japonica, Conium maculatum, Symphytum officinale, Thalictrum flavum and Festuca arundinacea. This borders species rich rhynes: floating and marginal vegetation includes Alisma plantago-aquatica, Hydrocharis morsus-ranae, Lemna trisulca, L. minor, Sparganium erectum, Glyceria maxima, Iris pseudacorus, Carex acutiformis, Juncus effusus, Mentha aquatica, Angelica sylvestris and Oenanthe aquatica. An unsurfaced car-park beside the river has MG7 vegetation of Lolium perenne and Poa spp. The river has marginal vegetation including Glyceria maxima and Nuphar lutea, but was not surveyed for its whole length.

MANAGE:
The main area of land is cattle-grazed, and an adjacent plot is used as a car-park by visiting fishermen.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Blackbird, Yellowhammer. Meadow Brown.

VEG:
The SW of the site has open woodland/scattered trees of Common Lime, Hazel and Elder, over dense Bracken. To the SE is an area of flush with tall herb/Arrhenatherum elatius grassland mosaic, with Holcus lanatus, Rubus fruticosus agg, Urtica dioica, Cirsium palustre, Juncus effusus, Apium nodiflorum, Solanum dulcamara, Mentha aquatica, Lotus uliginosus and Rumex conglomeratus all frequent. Two streams have Solanum dulcamara, Apium nodiflorum, Athyrium filix-femina, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Cirsium palustre, Glyceria plicata and Mimulus guttatus x M. luteus. The E of the site has an area of neglected neutral grassland with scattered trees of Elder and Oak. Prominent are Agrostis stolonifera, A. capillaris, Holcus lanatus, Poa spp., Lolium perenne, Arrhenatherum elatius, Rubus fruticosus agg., Digitalis purpurea and Rumex acetosella. Another stream runs along the S edge with a little Oenanthe crocata and Glyceria declinata.

MANAGE:
The site is unmanaged. Non-intervention is probably the most appropriate action.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Swallow, House Martin,Wren. Odonata: Enallagma cyathigerum.

VEG:
Semi-improved neutral grassland covers the common with Lolium perenne, Poa spp., Cynosurus cristatus and Ranunculus acris most abundant, but also R. bulbosus, Dactylis glomerata, Achillea millefolium, Cerastium fontanum, Cirsium vulgare, Trifolium repens, Geranium dissectum, Alopecurus pratensis and Hordeum secalinum. Urtica dioica and Cirsium arvense are locally frequent. The banks of the Parret have Urtica dioica tall herb vegetation with Phalaris arundinacea and some Schoenoplectus lacustris along the river. The drain which traverses the common is the principal feature of interest. Its varied flora includes Deschampsia cespitosa, Lemna minor, L. trisulca, Hydrocharis morsus-ranae, Glyceria sp., Elodea canadensis, Pulicaria dysenterica, Alisma plantago-aquatica, Typha latifolia, Ranunculus sceleratus, Eleocharis palustris, Juncus inflexus, J. acutiflorus, Scrophularia auriculata, Veronica catenata, Alopecurus geniculatus and Oenanthe fistulosa. Medicago arabica is locally frequent along the banks.

MANAGE:
The common is cattle grazed. Thistles are locally frequent and decline in the pasture due to spread of Cirsium arvense is a possible threat. Maintenance of water quality in the drain is important.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Dunnock, Great Tit, Robin.  Vole sp.

VEG:
The common consists almost entirely of MG1 grassland with Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Festuca rubra, Centaurea nigra, Rumex obtusifolius, R. acetosa, Urtica dioica, Vicia sepium, V. cracca, Ranunculus repens, Anthriscus sylvestris, Heracleum sphondylium, Cirsium arvense, Hyacinthoides non-scripta (occasional), Silene dioica, Ajuga reptans, Aegopodium podagraria, Dipsacus fullonum, Alliaria petiolata, Potentilla anserina and Equisetum telmateia. In the far E there is quite a large stand of Hesperis matronalis. There are scattered trees of Elder and Hawthorn, and a derelict wall on the S side has Polypodium vulgare s. l., Dryopteris filix-mas and Geranium robertianum. In places there are vestiges of a richer flora including Primula veris, Geranium pratense, Galium verum, Lotus corniculatus and Avenula pubescens. In the W are a few trees of Salix caprea and some Ulex europaeus. A moderately rich marsh, integrally part of the verge, but excluded from the CL occurs at (1) with Juncus effusus, J. inflexus, Equisetum palustre, Galium palustre, Myosotis scorpioides, Glyceria fluitans, Alopecurus geniculatus, Cardamine pratensis, Sparganium erectum and Ranunculus flammula.

MANAGE:
The verge is largely unmanaged, though is probably mown for traffic visibility from time to time. Additional native scrub plantings could be made, perhaps including Hawthorn, Buckthorn or Salix caprea. Ideally grass clippings from the mowing of the verges should be removed from the bulk of the site.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted: Yellowhammer.

VEG:
Most of the Green harbours weedy semi-improved neutral grassland, closely grazed Lolium perenne - Cynosurus cristatus in places, and rank Arrhenatherum elatius grassland in others. Species recorded include Poa spp., Dactylis glomerata, Festuca pratensis, F. rubra, Alopecurus pratensis, Bromus hordeaceus, B. racemosus (locally frequent), Filipendula ulmaria, Geranium dissectum, Ranunculus repens, Sisymbrium officinale, Trifolium spp. and Cirsium vulgare. An old tip has MG1 grassland with Urtica dioica, Brassica nigra, Conium maculatum, Galium aparine and Euphorbia lathyrus. Associated with the brook are areas of tall herb vegetation including Oenanthe crocata, Glyceria maxima, Sparganium erectum, Phalaris arundinacea, Filipendula ulmaria, Dipsacus fullonum, Epilobium hirsutum, Arctium minus and Scrophularia auriculata. A small clump of Alder is also present.

MANAGE:
NW of the brook, the common was being grazed by a tethered pony at time of survey. The principal use of the site appears to be as an unofficial dumping place, with scattered debris, polythene sacks, and domestic and garden rubbish. Control of this  activity is the main action needed, but there is also scope for creative conservation in the currently rather unimpressive grassland. A pond could be dug and native scrub species such as Salix cinerea, S. caprea, Hawthorn or Alder planted. The grassland NE of the road and SE of the brook (where there is some Bromus racemosus) is the most homogeneous and could be cut for hay, or mown annually with clippings removed.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted: Moorhen, Swallow, House Martin, Wren, Blackbird, Chaffinch. Odonate: Enallagma cyathigerum.

VEG:
The N verge of the lane has MG1 grassland with tall herb vegetation of Urtica dioica, Anthriscus sylvestris, Heracleum sphondylium, Artemisia vulgaris and Phragmites australis. Scattered Salix fragilis and Rubus fruticosus agg. scrub occur at the W end. The S side is more diverse with marshy grassland, probably a drying reedswamp becoming invaded with Arrhenatherum elatius, including Phragmites, Cirsium arvense, Equisetum arvense, Urtica dioica, Epilobium hirsutum, Solanum dulcamara, Galium palsutre, Calystegia sepium, Heracleum sphondylium, Rubus fruticosus agg. and a little Iris pseudacorus. In the centre is a pond with Salix triandra. W of this is a small area of Salix hybrid scrub and of carr wood with Salix fragilis over swampy vegetation of dominant Glyceria maxima with Iris pseudacorus. Further W again is reed swamp with scattered trees, part of which has been cleared and now consists largely of bare earth with a few spp. persisting: Solanum dulcamara, Mentha aquatica, Ranunculus sceleratus, Polygonum amphibium, Chenopodium rubrum, Veronica catenata, Epilobium palustre and Atriplex prostrata.

MANAGE:
The only management evident at time of survey was the clearance of reed from the rhyne and adjacent bank in the W. Pasture rights have clearly remained unexercised for some time. The cover afforded by the rank grass and scrubby wood on the site is probably of value in the vicinity and non-intervention is recommended.


