# file3

FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Blue Tit, Jay. Grey Squirrel.  Meadow Brown, Speckled Wood.

VEG:
Only four of the units were surveyed in the course of surveying other parts of the Quantocks. Unit (1) is a strip of grassland, with a bank of dense Bracken or Urtica dioica tall herb, flanking a stream, including Athyrium filx-femina. A gappy species-rich hedge flanks the W. Unit (2) has in its N section a steep N-facing bank of Sessile Oakwood with Hazel beneath, apparently a neglected coppice. A sparse ground flora includes Bracken, Digitalis purpurea, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Oxalis acetosella and Dryopteris filix-mas. The rest is dense Bracken with some Bramble, Hyacinthoides, Holcus lanatus, Teucrium scorodonia and Aira praecox and a few areas of scattered Ulex europaeus/Cytisus scoparius scrub. An old boundary bank is marked by Holly, Beech and Oak standards. Unit (3) is composed of two almost adjacent parcels. The S parcel is part vegetable garden, and the rest woodland of even-aged dense Ash and Sycamore, with some Alder and old Hazel coppice. Ground flora includes Rhododendron ponticum, Polystichum setiferum, Lapsana communis, Primula vulgaris, Poa nemoralis and Urtica dioica. The N parcel is Sessile Oakwood with some Beech emerging, over dense scrub of English Elm, Holly and Bramble in the S and dense Rhododendron ponticum in the N. Ground flora, for the most part sparse includes Dryopteris dilatata, Stellaria holostea, Lonicera periclymenum, Umbilicus rupestris and Mnium hornum. Units (8) and (9) were not traceable on the ground.

MANAGE:
There was no evidence of management, although there had once been coppice on units (2) and (3), and sheep pasturing presumably on unit (2). Part of unit (3) appears to be a private vegetable garden. Non-intervention is the most sensible management option although elimination of Rhododendron is a good idea where practical.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted: Buzzard, Pheasant, Carrion Crow. Rabbit.

VEG:
The small N unit is indistinguishable from the bulk of the adjacent CL 107 (q.v.). It holds dry heath with scattered bracken and semi-improved acidic grassland, dominated by Agrostis capillaris with Luzula campestris, Trifolium repens, Poa annua and much Juncus effusus. The main part of the site shows a gradation from virtually improved grassland of Lolium perenne and Poa trivialis at the top of the hill to species-richer grassland below. A zone of semi-improved acidic sward has Ranunculus repens, Achillea millefolium, Cirsium vulgare, C. palustre, Bellis perennis and Cerastium fontanum; beneath is Agrostis capillaris-dominated grassland with Rumex acetosella, Lotus corniculatus, Prunella vulgaris, Trifolium micranthum, Hypericum pulchrum, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus, Digitalis purpurea and scattered Ulex europaeus and Bracken. A flush rising here holds Agrostis stolonifera, Juncus effusus, J. bulbosus, Stellaria alsine, Myosotis secunda, Carex echinata, C. ovalis, Lotus uliginosus, Peplis portula, Montia fontana, Sagina procumbens, Ranunculus repens, R. flammula, R. omiophyllus, Cirsium palustre and Polytrichum commune, with a little Wahlenbergia hederacea also. The site is bounded to the E by a defunct hedge of Ulex europaeus; this species becomes quite frequent at the S of the site.

MANAGE:
The main part is heavily sheep-grazed with the flushed area churned up. The other receives light intermittent grazing.


FAUNA:
Chiffchaff and Magpie were noted during the brief site visit.

VEG:
The main straight verge is Arrhenatherum elatius grassland with Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Rumex obtusifolius, Heracleum sphondylium, Anthriscus sylvestris, Ranunculus repens and Taraxacum officinale agg.  Its E end has a small grove of mature English Oak, Beech and Sycamore, with Ash, Hawthorn and Wayfaring tree beneath. Somers Hill to its N is shaded by a narrow strip of woodland of Sycamore, English Oak, Ash, Hawthorn, Holly and Field Maple, with a ground flora of Mercurialis perennis, Hedera helix, Pteridium aquilinum, Galium aparine, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Vicia sepium, Allium ursinum, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Asplenium scolopendrium, Adoxa moschatellina, Chaerophyllum temulentum, Urtica dioica and Geranium robertianum. A small area of grassland and tall herb at its S end includes Pentaglottis sempervirens, Leucanthemum vulgare, Lathyrus pratensis, Silene dioica and Geranium pyrenaicum. The E verge is similar to the main one but has Galium cruciata, Potentilla anserina, Centaurea nigra, Armoracia rusticana and planted trees of Ash (4) and Sycamore (1). Hedges which border the verges are moderately species-rich.

MANAGE:
The main verge is mown with most of the clippings removed. Trees have been planted on the E section. Spoil has been dumped at Mary's Grave. Current verge management should continue. Any future tree plantings should be of native species, notably Oak or Ash.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted: Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, Swallow, Magpie.

VEG:
The two verges consist almost completely of semi-improved neutral grassland, disturbed locally by driving on the common. MG1 and a small amount of MG7 NVC types are present.  Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Heracleum sphondylium, Trifolium pratense, Symphytum officinale, Rumex obtusifolius, R. crispus, Urtica dioica, Convolvulus arvensis, Potentilla anserina, Malva sylvestris, Achillea millefolium, Senecio jacobaea, Cirsium vulgare, Leontodon autumnalis and Taraxacum officinale agg. are present, but in general the grassland is of little interest. A small area is mown as a lawn and the site is partly bounded by intact species-poor hedges of Field Maple, Ash, Blackthorn and Hawthorn.

MANAGE:
The verges may be irregularly mown, although consideration of traffic visibility is unlikely to be considered important on this minor road. A part of the grassland is mown regularly as a lawn. Native tree or shrub planting in localised patches would diversify this site. Non-intervention in much of the grassland is appropriate.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Woodpigeon, Tree Pipit, Blur Tit, Coal Tit, Great Tit, Wren, Robin, Blackbird, Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, Wood Warbler, Garden Warbler, Starling, Chaffinch, Yellowhammer, Linnet, Carrion Crow,  Common Shrew.

VEG:
Much of the common is covered with dense Bracken, which although rather species-poor (especially the E area), has a good range of associated species overall. These include frequent Holcus mollis, Rubus fruticosus agg. and Chamaenerion angustifolium, Arrhenatherum elatius, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Lonicera periclymenum, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Deschampsia flexuosa, Digitalis purpurea, Galium aparine and Silene dioica. In a few marginal areas, heath vestiges hold Galium sxatile, Potentilla erecta, Hypochoeris radicata, Teucrium scorodonia, Carex pilulifera and Hypericum pulchrum. Scattered scrub and trees occur within the Bracken. Silver Birch, Oak, Rowan, Hawthorn and Hazel are frequent in the W part, whilst in most of the E area these are rare; Ulex europaeus and Blackthorn are local, although the SE does have much scrub also, including Elder and Salix cinerea ssp. cinerea. Woodland is developed along the SW edge. The far W has a neglected coppice-with-standards of Ash and English Oak, with a dense shrub layer of Hazel forming a subcanopy. This becomes secondary even-aged Ashwood where it fringes the Bracken, rather open, with a little Sycamore and ground flora including Bracken, Lysimachia nemorum, Stellaria holostea, Silene dioica, Teucrium scorodonia and Hyacinthoides non-scripta. The road bank has a richer flora including Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Prunella vulgaris, Fragaria vesca, Primula vulgaris, Glechoma hederacea, Potentilla sterilis, Galium mollugo, Arum maculatum, Vicia sepium, Ribes uva-crispa, Stachys silvatica and some elements suggesting more lime-rich soil such as Clematis vitalba, Cornus sanguinea, Carex flacca, Sanicula europaea and Mercurialis perennis. Woodland in the far S includes an area of mature Ash and Oak with especially fine standards including Beech along an old boundary bank. There is little ground flora, but an open clearing. Flanking the W edge of the excluded meadow are areas of even aged Silver Birch, and a row of mature Beech, the latter with a poor ground flora including Festuca ovina, Deschampsia flexuosa, Galium saxatile and Mnium hornum. There are a few shaded, overmature bushes of Calluna vulgaris and Erica cinerea.
Other species recorded on this site include Oxalis acetosella, Veronica montana, Dryopteris filix-mas and D. dilatata.

MANAGE:
No signs of management were evident on the common. In past years Hazel was coppiced and boundary banks maintained. There is no open pasture remaining, and it is doubtful if sheep have grazed the site for many years.
A valuable site for wildlife, especially birds. The area could be enhanced by bracken clearance in some places, such as the SE or W where this is slightly less dominant. The bracken is so dominant in the E that it may be difficult for trees to establish. A few plantings of native species, such as occur in the W section would diversify the structure somewhat. Cytisus scoparius was  surprisingly not recorded - this species too could be planted.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted: Mallard, Moorhen, Swallow, Robin, Blackbird, Starling, Jackdaw.
Common Blue.
Odonata: Sympetrum striolatum.

VEG:
Much of the common holds grassland, which had been cut for hay at the time of survey. The aftermath suggests a moderately species-rich and damp MG1 grassland, the following species having been noted: Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Festuca rubra, F. pratensis, Agrostis stolonifera, Deschampsia cespitosa, Carex hirta, Juncus effusus, Heracleum sphondylium, Anthriscus sylvestris, Centaurea nigra, Trifolium pratense, Ranunculus acris, R. repens, Rumex obtusifolius, R. acetosa, Potentilla anserina, Vicia sepium, Leucanthemum vulgare (rare) and Loutus uliginosus. An old area of spoil in the NW has tall herb vegetation of Cirsium arvense, Heracleum sphondylium, Calystegia sepium, Scrophularia auriculata, Urtica dioica Rumex spp., Stachys sylvatica, Lotus uliginosus, Epilobium hirsutum, Angelica sylvestris and Mentha x villosonervata (?). A large pond in the SE has undergone succession to swamp, with little open water remaining. Typha latifolia is for the most part dominant, with much Carex otrubae, C. pseudocyperus, C. hirta, Eleocharis palustris, Juncus effusus, Agrostis stolonifera and Calliergon cuspidatum. Also present are Mentha aquatica, Iris pseudacorus, Rumex conglomeratus, Filipendula ulmaria, Lemna minor, Caltha palustris, Lycopus europaeus, Galium palustre, Juncus inflexus, J. articulatus, Cardamine pratensis, Myosotis scorpioides, Solanum dulcamara, Senecio aquaticus, Potentilla anserina, Equisetum spp., Angelica sylvestris, Ranunculus repens and R. lingua (rare). Small ponds in the N of the site have very little open water, and are more shaded, with Typha latifolia, Iris pseudacorus, Glyceria sp. and Apium nodiflorum. Fringing the main pond is tall herb vegetation of Urtica dioica and scrub of Bramble, with trees of cultivated apple, Field Maple, Horse Chestnut and Ash to the W. Beside the  NE pond are Crack Willow pollards; three adjacent ones have epiphytic trees on their crowns - an Elder, a 3m Hazel, and a 6m Ash. A few peripheral areas of the common hold tall herb vegetation.

MANAGE:
The bulk of the grassland on the green is cut, presumably for hay. A small, fenced-off area S of Huxham is horse grazed. The ponds are not managed. Some willows in the N are pollarded.
Grassland management should continue as at present with no sward improvement. Pond renovation could increase the diversity of freshwater habitat if the central area around the island (within pecked line) were cleared of swamp vegetation and some open water thus created. TPOs could be sought for the interesting pollards on the N of the Green.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Woodpigeon, Swallow, Wren, Chiffchaff. Rabbit, Grey Squirrel.

VEG:
The site consists entirely of secondary, semi-natural woodland, defined throughout by a woodbank open in the E and closed in the W. Canopy species are dominant English Oak with Ash, and some Silver Birch and Rowan. Beech and Sycamore are important in the W. The shrub layer comprises mostly Birch and Hazel, but also Beech, Rowan, Wild Cherry and Holly. In the open E section, bracken is dominant in the ground flora; it becomes more occasional to the E. Other elements of the ground flora are Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Chamaenerion angustifolium, Dryopteris dilatata, D. affinis, D. filix-mas Rubus fruticosus agg., Holcus lanatus, H. mollis, Silene dioica, Geranium robertianum, Moehringia trinerva, Oxalis acetosella, Deschampsia flexuosa, Lonicera periclymenum, Veronica montana, Lysimachia nemorum, Conopodium majus, Polytrichum formosum and Mnium hornum. Some Ulex europaeus persists on the woodbank to the S.

MANAGE:
None was evident at time of survey, although boundary trees along the woodbank had been coppiced long ago. Non-intervention should continue.


FAUNA:
Only Mallard & Small Tortoiseshell were seen during the brief visit to this site.

VEG:
Most of the site is species-poor amenity grassland of the Poo-Lolietum type (MG7), with very little diversity, but including some Taraxacum officinale agg., Trifolium repens, Medicago arabica and Bellis perennis and a few planted trees: Field Maple, Horse Chestnut hybrid, Black Poplar and Hawthorn. Boundary drains are the richest part of the common. Phragmites australis or Azolla filiculoides are dominant, with Callitriche stagnalis, Lemna minor, Iris pseudacorus, Equisetum fluviatile, Stachys palustris, Oenanthe crocata, Ranunculus sceleratus, Polygonum amphibium, Apium nodiflorum, Galium elongatum, Schoenoplectus lacustris ssp. tabernaemontani, Agrostis stolonifera, Typha latifolia and Scirpus maritimus. There is a Crack Willow pollard in the N. The exchanged Common Land (area A) was, at the time of survey, one third bare, one third disturbed grassland and ruderal vegetation, and one third poor semi-improved grassland with Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne, Poa trivialis, Agrostis stolonifera, Alopcurus geniculatus, A. pratensis, Trifolium repens, Ranunculus repens, Cirsium arvense and Bellis perennis. The exchanged area is separated from the old common by a defunct species-poor hedge with Salix cinerea, English Elm, Elder, Dog Rose and Bramble, with some MG1 grassland.

MANAGE:
The common is managed as a park with gang-mown grassland and benches provided. Safe crossings have been provided between the two halves of the common now that it has been bisected by the road. At present this urban fringe common is both sterile to wildlife, and evidently very uninspiring for formal/informal recreation. Many use the public footpath to get into town. It is an ideal site for the establishment of a creative conservation scheme possibly involving local schools. Hedgerows could be replaced and repaired, a large pond/wetland area created, possibly linking to the existing drains (latter especially apposite given the name of the common), and the area of B6 grassland used as a nucleus for creating an annually mown meadow.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted: Skylark, Swallow, Wren, Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler, Starling, Yellowhammer, Carrion Crow. Rabbit. Small Copper, Common Blue, Small Heath.

VEG:
The site consists entirely of unimproved neutral hay meadow. Dominant or abundant are Cynosurus cristatus, Lolium perenne, Dactylis glomerata, Alopecurus pratensis, Poa trivialis, Hordeum secalinum, Holcus lanatus, Trisetum flavescens and Rumex acetosa. Other species are Agrostis stolonifera, Festuca pratensis, x Festulolium loliaceum, Cirsium arvense (locally abundant), Ranunculus repens, R. acris, Cerastium fontanum, Filipendula ulmaria, Heracleum sphondylium, Vicia cracca, Centaurea nigra, Trifolium pratense, Achillea millefolium, Lathyrus pratensis, Elymus repens var. aristatum, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Leucanthemum vulgare, Lotus corniculatus and Silaum silaus (locally frequent). A few shallow defunct ditches, rather more moisture retentive, may hold Agrostis stolonifera, Filipendula ulmaria, Ranunculus repens, Juncus inflexus, J. acutiflorus, Pulicaria dysenterica, Lychnis flos-cuculi and Potentilla anserina. The margins of the meadow have tall MG1 grassland with Heracleum sphondylium, Symphytum officinale, Bromus sterilis, Phragmites australis, Urtica dioica and Cirsium spp. The N end of the site was not visited, but abuts onto the rich meadow of the E end of Wick Moor. It is likely that additional species such as Rhinanthus minor and possibly Orchis morio are present.

MANAGE:
The site is managed in the traditional manner for hay. This practise should continue, with no improvement of the swards permitted.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Buzzard, Red Grouse, Herring Gull, Swift, Woodpigeon, Swallow, Meadow Pipit, Blue Tit, Wren, Stonechat, Robin, Whinchat, Blackbird, Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, Wood Warbler, Blackcap, Jay, Magpie, Linnet, Raven.  
Red Deer, Rabbit.  
Speckled Wood, Small White. Heath Fritillary is known to breed.

VEG:
The upper slopes of the common to the S hold dry heath of the scarce H4 type, mostly with Bracken scattered throughout. Ulex gallii, Calluna vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus and Erica cinerea are abundant with Agrostis curtisii, Deschampsia flexuosa, Ulex europaeus, Erica tetralix and Molinia caerula occasional to frequent. Other species noted include Melampyrum pratense (locally frequent), Cuscuta epithymum (local) and Polygala serpyllifolia. In a few places on the plateau there is little Bracken and Calluna and U. gallii become dominant, whilst on the lower slopes Bracken is dense and tall with heath species scarce beneath. The N and E of the common has scattered scrub and trees of Birch, Oak, Rowan, Salix cinerea and Ulex europaeus, the latter becoming dense in a few places to the E. Rhododendron ponticum is locally occasional, having escaped from a hedge leading to the Youth Hostel a while ago. Valley floors in the N hold woodland, often of Sessile Oak and Birch with Rhododendron frequent near the YHA, and large Beeches at Toads Park Reservoir, where there is also much Ash. The shrub layer includes Hazel, Rowan and Holly, and ground flora includes Athyrium filix-femina, Asplenium scolopendrium, Polystichum setiferum, Dryopteris dilatata, D.filix-mas, Lonicera periclymenum, Oxalis acetosella, Digitalis purpurea, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Luzula sylvatica, Primula vulgaris and the fungus Laccaria amethystea. Stands of Reynoutria japonica occur at SS 970442 and 968442, and a shaded acidic flush occurs at the junction with Long Combe (SS 969442) with Juncus effusus, J. bulbosus, Glyceria fluitans, Stellaria alsine, Holcus lanatus and Sphagnum sp. Species associated with this stream lower down include Apium nodiflorum, Ranunculus flammula, Myosotis secunda, Scrophularia auriculata, Carex divulsa and Cirsium palustre. Other woodland formations are valley Alderwood with Hazel and Salix cinerea, W of Staunton Wood; facing this at the foot of Trimps Hill is an area of Douglas Fir plantation with Rhododendron which grades N into Oak/Birch Wood with scattered Bracken and much Melampyrum pratense. At SS 976440 there is open Sessile Oak coppice with Birch, somewhat intermediate between woodland and a double hedge; a vestigial heath flora includes Vaccinium myrtillus, Teucrium scorodonia, Luzula pilosa, L.multiflora, Umbilicus rupestris and Deschampsia flexuosa. There is quite a good flora of epiphytic lower plants, as elsewhere on site, including Usnea florida. Scrub woodland and thick hedges in the NE of the site include Elder, Sycamore, Blackthorn and much Berberis glaucocarpa. Other alien trees on this site include small plantations of Western Hemlock and Hybrid Black Poplar near the YHA; Lawson Cypress, Lilac and Bamboo are also present.
In the N, Bracken dominates Trimps and Arms Hills. Often it has an associated flora different to that in the S; replacing heath species are Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Holcus lanatus, H. mollis, Stellaria holostea, Teucrium scorodonia, Agrostis capillaris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Silene dioica and Hypochoeris radicata. Dense, impenetrable Ulex europaeus scrub also occurs on Trimps Hill with scattered Birch, Oak and Rowan.

MANAGE:
The cutting of firebreaks is the most obvious management activity on this site. The shrub cuttings have been left in one or two places. Parts of the wood were once coppiced.

The cutting of firebreaks appears to have benefited Agrostis curtisii-Ulex gallii heath at SS 975439, but it is important for firebreak effectiveness and prevention of soil enrichment that cuttings should not be left. Management for wildlife is now being undertaken by STNC. An important exercise is management of heath/bracken mosaic to benefit the Heath Fritillary Butterfly. Further bracken management might be considered worthwhile in the W of the site in the vicinity of SS 967439 where heath rich in Melampyrum pratense still persists beneath Bracken currently too dense to support this species. It is also most important that the spread of Rhododendron be controlled whilst this is still practical, in view of the problem created by this species on the neighbouring Quantock Hills. Isolated tree planting of suitable species, amid Bracken, in the S of the site would favour certain bird species such as Tree Pipit. Stands of Reynoutria japonica should be eradicated.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Buzzard, Swallow, Green Woodpecker.  Rabbit. Gatekeeper, Common Blue.

VEG:
The 8 pieces of land are described separately. The largest unit (1) has homogeneous species-poor resown grassland of Lolium perenne and Poa trivialis with a little Dactylis glomerata, Urtica dioica and Cirsium spp. also apparent during the brief visit. Unit (2) has 2 paddocks in its N half, which are horse-sick. They contain some species of disturbed habitats such as Anagallis arvensis, Medicago arabica, Senecio jacobaea and Verbena officinalis. A road cuts through the far N end and separates a small piece which is scrubbing over with tall herb. In the S, a cemetery was established in 1985 which has a mixture of disturbed weedy grassland, car park planted exotic trees, and a steep bank which still holds some scrubby grassland, including Arrhenatherum elatius, Bromus erectus, Origanum vulgare, Daucus carota, Agrimonia eupatoria, Lotus corniculatus, Leucanthemum vulgare, Clinopodium vulgare, Agrimonia eupatoria and a little dense bracken. Units (3) and (4) were not surveyed but hold woodland mostly of Ash with Hazel and Field Maple and some Whitebeam. Units (5) (6) and (7) are all private gardens, the latter two including the houses themselves. Unit (8) is a lane with MG1 grassland including Heracleum sphondylium, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Arum maculatum, Asplenium scolopendrium, Galium mollugo, Convolvulus arvensis, Stachys sylvatica, Calamintha ascendens, Lotus corniculatus, Trisetum flavescens and Origanum vulgare.

MANAGE:
The main unit is grazed; units (3), (4) and (8) are not managed; unit (2) is partly managed as a cemetery, with planting of exotic trees and beds, and provision of benches and a car park. The rest is overgrazed by horses, with the exception of an unmanaged verge. The other units appear not to be common. Unit (8) is quite good for butterflies and a late summer cut of the grass with the clippings removed would be beneficial. Management options over the other units are limited.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Wren, Stonechat. 
Odonata: Libellula depressa (all on Unit 1).  Green Woodpecker, Jackdaw (on unit 2).

VEG:
Unit (1) is virtually homogeneous dense Bracken with scattered trees of Holly, Sessile Oak and Hawthorn. In more open areas beneath the Bracken are found Agrostis capillaris, Galium saxatile, Stellaria graminea, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Rubus fruticosus agg., Digitalis purpurea, Deschampsia flexuosa, Teucrium scorodonia, Silene dioica, Cirsium palustre and Rumex acetosella. Bare areas hold Vulpia bromoides and Aira praecox. There is a little Cytisus scoparius. The SE end has semi-improved pasture with some mature Oaks. Unit (2) has parts of 3 abandoned quarries. The floor of the central one has dense scrub of Salix cinerea and Birch with some Sweet Chestnut and Ash; it is poorly drained and passes to carr wood N of the site. Scattered scrub including Rhododendron ponticum occupies the E quarry with Bracken and a relict area of dry heath. The W quarry is more bare with its slopes only being included in the CL (although boundaries are very hard to follow on this site). These hold colonising acidophilous species including heaths Deschampsia flexuosa, Hieracium pilosella, Aira caryophyllea, Rhododendron ponticum, Festuca ovina, Asplenium adiantum-nigrum, Polypodium vulgare, Vulpia bromoides and Polytrichum juniperinum. A cusp of land in the S bears acid grassland heath and scrub on the original surface. Present are Festuca rubra, F. ovina, Agrostis capillaris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Deschampsia flexuosa, Rumex acetosella, Potentilla erecta, Sedum anglicum and Conopodium majus with rabbit disturbed areas having Sagina apetalata, S. procumbens, Myosotis discolor, Aphanes microcarpa, Ornithopus perpusillus and Senecio sylvaticus. Erica cinerea, Calluna vulgaris and Ulex gallii are occasional with Rowan, Birch, Blackthorn, Hawthorn and Elder. There is also an area of herb-poor Arrhenatherum elatius grassland with some old anthills.

MANAGE:
Sheep graze area 1 very lightly. Area 2 is not managed and is fenced off for safety reasons. Non-intervention should continue.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Wren, Blue Tit, SongThrush, Carrion Crow.  Rabbit, Common Shrew.  Small Heath, Meadow Brown, Mullein Moth.

VEG:
The S of the site has closed tall woodland with Alder and Ash dominant, and occasional Sessile Oak and Silver Birch. A sparse open shrub layer includes Hawthorn, Hazel, Rowan, Elder, Spindle and Holly, and ground flora includes much Bramble, Hedera helix and Glechoma hederacea, and Silene dioica, Geranium robertianum, Dryopteris filix-mas, D. dilatata, Oenanthe crocata and Digitalis purpurea. Streamsides have Athyrium filix-femina, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Carex divulsa and Mnium hornum. There has been much Bracken invasion in the grassland in the N of the common; the few associates include Holcus lanatus, Hypochoeris radicata, Digitalis purpurea and Verbascum thapsus. The grassland is dominated by Holcus lanatus, Agrostis stolonifera, Dactylis glomerata and Anthoxanthum odoratum with Rumex acetosa, Stellaria graminea, Lathyrus pratensis, Carex divulsa, C. hirta, Centaurea nigra, Ranunculus acris, Potentilla anserina, Cirsium palustre, Senecio jacobaea, Conopodium majus and Rubus fruticosus agg., Juncus effusus, Angelica sylvestris, Solanum dulcamara, Scrophularia auriculata and Salix cinerea occur by streams. Parts of the sward are mown and others have a flora indicating disturbed dry habitat such as Trifolium dubium, T. micranthum, Medicago arabica, Cirsium  spp., Crepis capillaris, Vulpia bromoides and Spergularia rubra. In the N a depression holds a large stand of Iris pseudacorus. Throughout occur planted fenced trees with Crack Willow, Hawthorn, Birch, Horse Chestnut and various ornamental species.

MANAGE:
The only signs of management are in the grassland, where parts are mown in a lawn-like manner and about 2 dozen trees have been carefully planted. What is clearly regular mowing could be accompanied by swiping of some areas of bracken. Regular treatment of bracken will allow the unimproved grassland to persist. All cut material should be removed from the bulk of the site.


FAUNA:
On site visit the following species were noted:  Woodpigeon, Blue Tit, Willow Warbler, Chaffinch.

VEG:
The verges of Street Lane hold mostly a rank weedy grassland with much Elymus repens, Lolium perenne and Poa trivialis, and patches of tall Rumex obtusifolius, Urtica dioica, Festuca arundinacea and Cirsium arvense. Also present are Ranunculus repens, Alopecurus pratensis and A. x hybridus. A few areas are somewhat richer with Holcus lanatus, Cynosurus cristatus, Festuca rubra, Lolium perenne, Dactylis glomerata, Trifolium pratense, Ranunculus acris, Rumex acetosa, Vicia cracca, V. sativa and Silene dioica. Some stands of Filipendula ulmaria occur in the W. Hedges defining the site are rather species-poor.

MANAGE:
The site is unmanaged, although has been used for dumping large amounts of farm machinery, tyres, spoil, straw and silage bags. Dumping should be curtailed, and non-intervention should continue.


FAUNA:
Noted during site visit were: Yellowhammer, Whitethroat; Orange Tip and Meadow Brown butterfies.

VEG:
The vegetation of the common is generally quite damp in character. The larger, western portion (1) comprises coarse, neutral grassland, typically dominated by Deschampsia cespitosa. This is accompanied by occasional-to-abundant Holcus lanatus and Festuca rubra, occasional-to-frequent Cardamine pratensis, Carex panicea, Potentilla anserina, Rumex acetosa, locally frequent Dactylis glomerata, Centaurea nigra, Juncus conglomeratus, Arrhenatherum elatius, Lathyrus pratensis and Lotus corniculatus and locally occasional Silaum silaus, Ranunculus repens, Juncus inflexus, Stachys officinalis, Senecio ?erucifolius and Pulicaria dysenterica. This vegetation appears to be mainly of NVC type MG9a, possibly with local transitions to MG9b, where A. elatius becomes frequent. Isolated features noted were a small stand of of Iris pseudacorus and to the edge of the common is a narrow ditch with Filipendula ulmaria. A further wet ditch runs east to west across the common near to the point where the photograph was taken. This feature is about 20m long by 2.0m wide. Associated with this are abundant Eleocharis palustris, Potentilla reptans and Agrostis stolonifera var. palustris, frequent-to-abundant Potentilla anserina, occasional-to-frequent Cardamine pratensis, locally abundant Carex nigra and locally occasional Juncus inflexus and J. conglomeratus. The smaller portion to the east of the road also has rather damp vegetation. To the north (2) this may grade locally into true marshy grassland. Deschampsia cespitosa once again appears to be the most dominant grass, with a somewhat similar species compostition to that already noted, plus locally abundant Festuca ?arundinacea and locally occasional Carex ovalis, C. hirta and C. nigra. In addition, one small area is dominated by  Carex nigra, with  frequent Potentilla anserina and occasional Poa sp., Juncus inflexus, Festuca arundinacea and Ranunculus acris. The remainder of this part of the common (3) is mainly a mosaic of coarse grassland plus some tall ruderal species. This is dominated by Arrhenatherum elatius and Dactylis glomerata, with locally frequent Centaurea nigra, Anthriscus sylvestris, Urtica dioica, Heracleum sphondylium, Galium aparine, Cirsium arvense, Plantago lanceolata, Equisetum arvense, Alopecurus pratensis and  Rumex obtusifolius (NVC type MG1). Localised wet areas still persist, characterised by D. cespitosa and Cardamine pratensis. There are two small clumps of scrub next to the road which have Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra and Malus sylvestris.

MANAGE:
The common appears largely unmanaged. However, there was evidence of quite recent localised heavy poaching of the grassland turf by cattle hooves to the west of the road. The habitats present on the common appear to have a varied species composition and wide structural diversity and may be good invertebrate habitat. Butterfly foodplants are well-represented and these include many of the grass species, plus Lotus corniculatus, Urtica dioica and Cardamine pratensis. The wet ditch introduces further habitat diversity. The site complements the adjacent CL 330, which has extensive areas of scrub, and the two taken together are probably important areas for wildlife at a local level. Maintainance of the grassland sward on this site, ideally through light grazing in late summer/autumn, or selective rotational mowing of part at a time, would appear to be the optimal management recommendation. This would have the minimal impact on invertebrate populations. Ideally such work would be preceded by an invertebrate survey. Part of the grassland next to the road may be cut by the local authority. There has been dumping of garden rubbish at the SE corner of the western portion by people from the adjoining housing estate.


FAUNA:
Noted during site survey were: willow warbler, yellowhammer, greenfinch, wren, blackbird, robin, skylark, kestrel, whitethroat, chaffinch, chiff chaff, magpie, wood pigeon. 
Invertebrates: orange tip, green-veined white and meadow brown butterflies, seven-spot ladybird and a froghopper, Cercopis vulnerata.

VEG:
The vegetation of the common largely comprises a mosaic of dense scrub and grassland. The main area of scrub is at (1). This gives way locally to areas of tall neutral grassland/tall ruderal vegetation. The predominant scrub tree is  Crataegus monogyna (NVC W21), with locally abundant Prunus spinosa (NVC W22), plus occasional Ulums glabra, Rosa canina, Viburnum opulus, Betula pendula, Fraxinus excelsior, Malus sylvestris, Acer campestre, Rubus fruticosus agg. and Sambucus nigra. Beneath is an understorey which includes Arrhenatherum elatius and  Dactylis glomerata as the main grasses, plus  Bromus sterilis, B. mollis, Festuca rubra and Poa trivialis all locally frequent, plus herbs which include Epilobium hirsutum, Galium aparine, Lamium album, Urtica dioica, Anthriscus sylvestris, Heracleum sphondylium, Chamerion angustifolium, Cisrium arvense, Arctium minus, Artemisia vulgaris, Stellaria media, Mercurialis perennis and Leucanthemum vulgare. Beside the road itself is a narrow grassland strip, part of which may be mown by the highway authority. This is dominated by Arrhenatherum elatius, with locally abundant Lolium perenne and Urtica dioica. Other species noted include Potentilla reptans, Trifolium pratense, Taraxacum  officinale agg., Achillea millefolium and  Tragopogon pratensis. Localised small infestations of Reynoutria japonica were also noted. 
Moving eastwards (2), the scrub is much more open, giving rise to wide grassy areas. One interesting damp patch here has Juncus inflexus, Potentilla anserina, Angelica sylvestris, Carex panicea, C. ovalis, Silaum silaus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, E. hirsutum, Cardamine pratensis, Centaurea nigra, and Rumex acetosa. Adjacent to the road at this point were also noted two individuals of Symphitum ? x uplandicum and one of Malva sylvestris. At the extreme eastern end is a broadly triangular plot of mown amenity grassland. To the north of the road is a narrower strip of common land with a mosaic of scrub, grassland and tall ruderal of generally similar character of that to the south.
At (4) is another mown area, recorded as semi-improved neutral grassland, with Lolium perenne, Agrostis capillaris, Bellis perennis, Taraxacum officinale agg., and Plantago lanceolata. There is an area of structurally diverse neutral grassland at (5). This is dominated by Arrhenetherum elatius, with abundant tussocky Deschampsia cespitosa, locally abundant Chamerion angustifolium, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Cirsium arvense, Epilobium hirsutum, Heracleum sphondylium and occasional Tanacetum vulgare (NVC MG9b). Scattered scrub in this area includes C. monogyna and Ulex europaeus.

MANAGE:
The greater part of the common appears to be unmanaged at present. Two small areas of grassland at either end are regularly mown for amenity purposes. There are several features of conservation interest on the common. These include the diverse scrub habitats which appear to be locally important to birds of scrub/woodland edge (see fauna section) and the structurally diverse grassland habitats, which may have good invertebrate habitat potential and also appear to be feeding areas for kestrels. Butterfly foodplants are well-represented in the from of the various grasses, plus Urtica dioica and Cardamine pratensis. The ideal management would appear to be to maintain this diversity of scrub and grassland habitats. This may necessitate future control of the area of scrub should it invade the areas of open grassland. Removal of scrub would best be aimed at achieving a "scalloped" edge, through the creation of small "glades" to achieve the maximum habitat interface with the grassland. Without management of the grassland habitat there is also the danger of the loss of some of the species and structural diversity. In the absence of grazing, the best option would be to cut selected small areas in late summer on a rotational basis and remove the clippings - this would ensure the minimum impact on invertebrate populations. 
The presence of several small infestations of {\it Reynoutria japonica} (Japanese knotweed), an invasive alien, is a cause for concern.


FAUNA:
Noted during site survey were: hobby, four spot chaser (Libellula quadrimaculata - a dragonfly) and large heath butterfly (Coenonympha tullia). 

The SSSI as a whole is a grade A site on the Invertebrate Site Register. These are sites of national importance for invertebrate conservation, equivalent to NCR status on grounds of invertebrate interest. The area has been studies extensively by entomologists over many decades and many Red Data Book and notable species associated with fen, bog and woodland have been found. In total there have been over 3,000 recorded invertebrate species. 

Of particular interest on Inkle Moor (the extreme NW portion of the common) are the number of species associated with saline conditions in a position so far inland. The SSSI is the only recorded location for two beetles -  Curimposis nigrita and Bembidion homorale. Another feature is the occurrence together of northern upland species and southern fenland species, each at their geographical limits. The area is a stronghold for the large heath butterfly, whose caterpillars feed on the Eriophorum angustifolium. 

The site is also important for its breeding and wintering bird populations. Breeding species characteristic of dry scrub and heathland include nightjar, nightingale, tree pipit, woodcock and whinchat, while teal, snipe, reed and grasshopper warblers are associated with the wet heath and fen habitats. The breeding population of nightjars on the Moors is of national importance, as its numbers regularly exceed 1 per cent of the total British breeding population. Reptiles such as adder and common lizard are also present on the moors.

VEG:
The common forms a major portion of the Thorne, Crowle and Goole Moors SSSI. Part has also recently been scheduled as a National Nature Reserve (The Humberhead Peatlands), and part has been proposed as a Special Area of Conservation (pSAC) under EC legislation. The site is also listed in "A Nature Conservation Review", Ed. D.A. Ratcliffe, 1977. 

The site as a whole forms the largest extent of lowland raised mire in England, even though it has been much modified by peat cutting. The peat deposits are of variable depth, possibly up to 4.0m, and these are underlain by an impervious layer of lacustrine clays and silts. Since the middle of the last century commercial peat winning and warping have destroyed the original bog surface of moss hummocks, wet hollows and shallow pools. However, traditional methods of peat extraction have ensured a continuity of suitable conditions for the recolonisation of remnants of the original flora and fauna, while fen habitats, containing rich assemblages of species, have also developed. 

Most peat cuttings are dominated by  Eriophorum angustifolium and Juncus effusus. Locally there are carpets of Sphagnum mosses which contain species such as Vaccinium oxycoccos, while pools contain Utricularia vulgaris. The old mire surface between the cuttings is dominated by  Betula pubescens, Pteridium aquilinum, Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix and Eriophorum vaginatum. Such dry communities are particularly well-developed in the SE portion of the site, and also occur on the warped land, (ie. land subject to deliberate flooding with river water). 
In several places around the edges of the common the birch trees have developed into stands of broadleaved woodland, which appear to have an understorey of Molinia caerulea, Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix and Eriophorum spp. 
Other habitats, notably the extensive series of canals linking the cuttings, contain a wide range of plant species, including some elements of the original raised mire flora. This includes  Andromeda polifolia (the only recorded extant location for this species in Vice County 63 - G.T.D. Wilmore, pers. comm.), plus Vaccinium oxycoccos, Drosera rotundifolia, and several species of Sphagnum moss. A number of characteristic fenland plants such as Potentilla palustris, Osmunda regalis, Calamagrostis canescens, Cladium mariscus and Phragmites australis also occur within these canals, while on warped land there is a well-developed fen vegetation containing Triglochin palustris, Dactylorhiza praetermissa and Thalictrum flavum. Also recorded in association with these areas is the nationally rare Rhinanthus angustifolius (G.T.D. Wilmore, pers. comm.). 
A particular feature of the abandoned peat workings are tramways, once used by horses and later by trains pulling peat-laden wagons, which are built up from a mixture of lime-rich blast furnace slag and clinker. These have allowed species such as Dactylorhiza maculata and D. purpurella (possibly plus hybrids), together with Euphrasia officinalis, Lotus corniculatus and Listera ovata to colonise. The close juxtaposition of these species with those of the raised mire habitat makes for a rather unusual mosaic to say the least. 
NB. Nationally Rare plant species: recorded as occurring in 15 or fewer ten km squares of the National Grid.

MANAGE:
A major portion of the common, mostly that to the north, is under commercial peat extraction by Levington's. The southern portion, mainly comprising old peat workings, has been handed over to English Nature and forms the NNR. Planning permission for the peat extraction exists until 2025 and the recent agreement with Levington's will allow the peat removal to be gradually phased out by this date. This allows peat removal to a minimum depth of 0.5m. 

The management aims for the NNR are to recreate suitable conditions for the re-establishment of raised bog vegetation. This requires the maintenance of a high water table. To achieve this, drainage channels leading from the old workings have been blocked by peat dams or 'bunds'. In addition, water from the area being actively cut is being pumped into the reserve. The results so far have been encouraging, in that the water table has indeed risen, with the result that many of the birch trees have been killed-off. This is generally considered desirable as this is thought to minimise water loss through evapotranspiration. The hope is that {\it Spagnum} mosses will colonise the re-wetted areas and eventually these will be followed by other bog plants from the remnant strips of the original raised mire. 

This work was clearly evident at the time of the site visit in early July 1995, with a high winter rainfall over 1994/95. Subsequently there were serious fires during August and September. Such events have been recorded in several recent years. Fortunately for the NNR, the 1995 fires mainly affected the area of commercial peat extraction, where the bare peat had been able to dry-out in the extremely hot summer weather. However, a number of the peat dams were reported to have burnt through, with resulting drainage of part of the NNR. Fortunately these effects appear to have been fairly limited, and the damage has now been repaired. Despite the apparent success of efforts to raise the water table, it is recognised that the 0.5 - 2.0m residue of undisturbed peat at Thorne Moors is likely to provide a poor hydrological buffer between it and the underlying aquifers, and that success may also require the control of agricultural drainage and extraction from the underground aquifers.


FAUNA:
Noted during site visit were: swifts, willow warbler, yellowhammer. 
The common has an entry in the Invertebrate Site Register, although this is ungraded. There are records for a small number of rare and notable species: Nationally notable (known from 30 or fewer 10km squares) - Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths): Metzneria aprilella, Nationally notable (known from 100 or fewer 10km squares) - Coleoptera (beetles): Galeruca tanaceti, Longitarsus ochroleucus and Micrambe villosus - Diptera (flies): Calliopum elisae, Orellia colon and Symphoromyia immaculata. Nationally rare - Diptera: Polydesmus denticulatus. Local - Diptera: Polydesmus inconstans, Coleoptera:  Choleva spadicea, Isoptera: Haplophthalmus mengei.

VEG:
The common lies on the edge of a shallow valley in the Magnesian limestone. Part of the common has been designated as an SSSI, primarily on geological grounds, and also due to calcicolous grassland communities. A number of quadrat records for this habitat are available on file (see below). 

To the top of the valley side is a level area of amenity grassland in front of a housing estate. This continues to the west of the road and here there are also scattered clumps of broadleaved trees - Salix sp., Crataegus monogyna, Quercus robur and Betula sp. This part lies within the SSSI. There is a hint that some of this grassland may have been derived from a calcicolous sward, suggested by the localised presence of Plantago media and Centaurea scabiosa. 

To the north of the common is an area of scrubby broadleaved woodland on a steep part of the hillside. This supports trees and shrubs of  Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus, A, campestre, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Rosa sp., Corylus avellana and Quercus robur. The field layer contains a fairly wide variety of species which include Mercurialis perennis, Rubus fruticosus agg., Pteridium aquilinum, Tamus communis, Arctium minus, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Lamiastrum galeobdolon, Geum urbanum, Fragaria vesca, Pentaglottis sempervirens, Agrimonia eupatoria and Hieracium sp. Toward the base of the slope there is also a stand of Alliaria petiolata. 

The remainder of the common is where the outcrops of Magnesian Limestone occur. These occupy approximately 5 per cent of the area. Toward the top of the slope there appears to be a spread of coarse neutral grassland dominated by Arrhenatherum elatius and Dactylis glomerata with frequent Urtica dioica and Anthriscus sylvestris. Further down the slope, bracken has become dominant over much of the area. 

The calcicolous grassland is confined to the areas surrounding the limestone outcrops. There are two sources of quadrat data for this habitat. The first is dated 1981, while the second was performed by Bruce Langridge in 1987. Reference to these sources would suggest that the combined effects of burning and eutrophication have caused the area of calcicolous grassland to decline due to the spread of bracken and coarse grass species. 

Examples of calcicolous grassland noted during the present survey were dominated by Bromus erectus, with frequent-to-occasional associates including Plantago lanceolata, Centaurea scabiosa, Hieracium sp., Sanguisorba minor, Agrimonia eupatoria, Pimpinella saxifraga, Helianthemum nummularium, Hypochoeris radacata, Carex flacca, Lotus corniculatus, Hypericum sp. and Campanula rotundifolia. This composition appears broadly in agreement with the previous quadrat data, which indicate a sward of NVC type CG3. Other species recorded, but not noted on this occasion include Ononis repens, Briza media, Origanum vulgare, Knautia arvensis, Lamium album, Silene alba, Thymus drucei, Avenula pubescens, Centaurium erythrea, Linum catharticum, Primula veris and Sedum acre. Scattered scrub is also present locally within this area comprising C. monogyna and Rosa spp. and on the slope itself, Ulex europaeus and scattered trees.

MANAGE:
The amenity grassland area is managed by mowing, presumably by the local authority. The remainder of the common appears unmanaged. 

The area of calcicolous grassland appears to have declined over recent years, due to the spread of bracken (possibly encouraged by fires started by vandals) and eutrophication from the large quantities of dog faeces deposited all over the common. There has also been further degradation of the site through dumping of rubbish, particularly in the wooded section. Further, some of the geological exposures on the common have been vandalised by graffiti. Continued monitoring of this site is recommended, although it is unlikely that there is any realistic chance of halting the apparent decline in its botanical diversity. 

There have been proposals to erect an information board in the vicinity of the war memorial highlighting the geological interest of the site. The need to prevent vegetation from concealing the rock exposures has also been highlighted.


FAUNA:
Noted during site visit were: blue tit, chaffinch, willow warbler, greenfinch, whitethroat, blackbird, cuckoo, jay, yellowhammer, chiff chaff, robin, common frog, plus peacock, orange tip and large white butterflies. Part of the common, including the Low Common, is listed as Grade B on the Invertebrate Site Register. These are sites of regional importance for invertebrate conservation, equivalent to SSSI status on grounds of invertebrate interest. There are listed a diversity of Red Data Book and Notable species, some but not all associated with grassland and scrub habitats. Recording efforts have been mainly concentrated on the SSSI/Rseserve area, but occasional visits to other parts of the complex indicate that other portions, including the Dike Hagg area (not all on common land) are also of interest. For a list of the species recorded, refer to the ISR. The main orders represented are Diptera (flies) - including Opomysa punctella and Platypalpus aeneus, Lepidoptera (butterfiles and moths) - including Sesia bembeciformis, plus Coleoptera (beetles).

VEG:
The common is part of a larger area of somewhat rather overgrown land to the east of Maltby. It includes Maltby Low Common to the west (which forms a major part of an SSSI/YWT Reserve) and Maltby Far Common to the east. 
There is a large amount of biological and management information on file relating to the SSSI. This includes a detailed vegetation and hydrological survey undertaken by the Wildlife Trust. This part of the common is influenced by a bank of Magnesian Limestone which lies along the southern boundary of the SSSI (although it is just outside the boundary of the common). 

The base-enriching influence of the bank, together with the neutral and acidic conditions from partial leaching of the limestone, supports a mosaic of grassland communities not yet recognised from any other site in South Yorkshire. To the centre is also an area underlain by impervious Permian Marl which has resulted in impeded drainage. This has led to the development of an area of swamp and marshy grassland. The swamp is characterised by  Valeriana dioica, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Silaum silaus, Ranunculus flammula, Agrostis canina subsp. montana, Molinia caerulea, Pulicaria dysenterica and Lotus uliginosus. In addition there is a small area said to be dominated by Calamagrostis epigejos. There are also scattered trees and shrubs of Salix fragilis, Quercus petraea, Viburnum opulus, Betula pendula and  Populus tremula. However, a central watercourse has an enriching effect which has led to locally dominant Urtica dioica and Epilobium hirsutum. 

A small pond is fringed by Typha latifolia. The marshy grassland is dominated by Deschampsia cespitosa, Angelica sylvestris and Filipendula ulmaria. Also noted during the present survey were R. flammula, Valeriana dioica, Ajuga reptans, Cardamine pratensis, Juncus inflexus, Silaum silaus and Dactylorhiza fuchsii. Within this area, small patches of acidic grassland have also developed, dominated by Nardus stricta, Agrostis capillaris and Festuca ovina, with abundant Potentilla erecta and Ajuga reptans, locally frequent Carex panicea, C. nigra and  Luzula campestris, occasional Pedicularis sylvatica, Succisa pratensis and Achillea ptarmica, plus small patches of Calluna vulgaris and Sphagnum moss species. 

To the south of this part of the common is a fringe of neutral grassland, dominated by Holcus lanatus, Agrostis capillaris and Anthoxanthum odoratum, plus numerous herbs including Anemone nemorosa, Rhinanthus minor, Stachys officinalis and Viola riviniana. More unusual species include Dactylorhiza fuchsii and Ophioglossum vulgatum, while this area is the only recorded site for Cirsium dissectum in Vice County 63 (G.T.D. Wilmore, pers. comm.). Noted also during the present survey were Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Galium cruciata and Mercurialis perennis. Small areas of bracken are present at the margins, though these are being controlled by the wildlife trust to allow the area of neutral grassland to expand. 

To the west of Maltby low Common lies an area of broadleaved woodland interspersed with neutral grassland, tall ruderal and bracken patches being colonised by trees of Betula sp. This woodland is contiguous and unfenced from the larger expanse of Maltby Woods, with no evidence of any boundary of the common in this area. 

These woods are characterised by small, but mature trees of Quercus petraea, with occasional individuals of Betula pendula. There are few undershrub trees, occasional Corylus avellana being the only noted. Locally the field layer is grassy with abundant Agrostis capillaris, Holcus lanatus and Melica uniflora. Other associates include Brachypodium sylvaticum, Lonicera pericylmenum, Geum urbanum, Scrophularia nodosa, Viola riviniana, Mercurialis perennis, Stachys sylvatica, Galeopsis tetrahit, Anemone nemorosa, Hyacinthoides non-scripta and Lamiastrum galeobdolon. Locally the field layer is dominated by Pteridium aquilinum, Chamerion angustifolium or R. fruticosus agg. One wet area also has  Angelica sylvestris and Valeriana dioica, while Glyceria fluitans was noted in a wet ditch. 

In between the blocks of woodland are open areas which have a mosaic of bracken, coarse neutral grassland and tall ruderals. Much of these areas appear to have been burnt. The initial cause appeared to be vandalism, but apparently the local people light fires round the bases of the trees to kill them and subsequently take them for firewood. A number of burnt stumps of oak trees were noted. A damp area was noted to have a small population of D. fuchsii, plus Lotus uliginosus, Angelica sylvestris and Succisa pratensis. There is one further source of information referring to "Maltby Wood South of Railway". Part on this area appears to coincide with the above wooded areas of the common. There are records for this compartment for Luzula pilosa and Daphne laureola, but it is not clear whether either are present on the common.

Maltby Far Common forms a significant part of the site as a whole and lies to the eastern end of the complex. Only the southern portion was visited during this survey, along the public footpath which runs to the south. At this time, most of this field appeared to comprise a rather species-poor grass sward, dominated by Lolium perenne. Frequent throughout were Dactylis glomerata, Plantago lanceolata and Bellis perennis, with locally frequent Trifolium dubium and Bromus mollis. This area would appear to have been under cultivation at some time.

To the north of this area the common partly overlaps a series of small disused quarries known as Dike Hagg. This area was the subject of a survey by YWT/NACRO in 1987. Sections of the boundary of the common here appear to cross through the Dike Hagg area and do not follow any physical boundaries. This means that it is not possible to determine precisely how the target noted information relates to common land. However, one of these notes mentions a line of Salix sp. trees along an old woodland boundary, which may in fact lie along that of the common. This has occasional Sambucus nigra and Rubus idaeus, plus invasion onto the common of trees and shrubs of Crataegus monogyna, Rosa canina and Betula pendula. The grassland in the vicinity of the "hills and hollows" appears to be calcicolous in character and includes a wide diversity of species: Bromus erectus, Trisetum flavescens, Brachypodium pinnatum, Festuca ovina, Briza media, Helictotrichon pubescens, Agrostis stolonifera, A. canina, Holcus lanatus, Prunella vulgaris, Thymus praecox, Agrimonia eupatoria, Blackstonia perfoliata, Centaurium erythrea, Inula conyza, Origanum vulgare, Linum catharticum, Lotus corniculatus, Euphrasia sp., Hypericum perforatum, Carex flacca, C. caryophyllea, Trifolium dubium, Tragopogon pratensis, Gentianella amarella, Plantago media, P. lanceolata and Lithospermum officinale. In addition, several individuals of Ophrys apifera var. chlorantha are present and there is an old record for Ophioglossum vulgatum. Some of the "hollows" are wet and have Viburnum opulus, Salix spp. and Potentilla reptans. The margins of the site are overgrown with Chamerion angustifolium and dense bracken.

MANAGE:
The Low Common is managed by the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust as a nature reserve. The management objectives recognise the unique botany of the site and much research has been undertaken to decide upon the best strategy for management. 

A number of important issues have been recognised. In the first place, it was realised that parts of the fen area were becoming dominated by species indicative of eutrophication, namely Urtica dioica and Epilobium hirsutum. A hydrological and pedological study in 1987 identified the source of nurtients to be the dyke which crossed this area. The common has a higher water table than the dyke for most of the year, but during the summer, it falls to below that in the dyke, enabling nutrients to be released onto the surrounding part of the common. As the dyke is not thought to be responsible for supplying water onto the common (rather it is the impervious substrate which allows water to collect in a basin), it was considered that piping of the dyke would cure the eutrophication problem. 
To date it would appear that work done on the dyke has been widening, clearing and where necessary, diverting, to encourage nutrient-rich water to leave the reserve as quickly as possible. Annual cutting of Epilobium hirsutum and Urtica dioica is being undertaken in late July to try and control these species. This has led in part to a local abundance of other fen species such as Poa pratensis and Pulicaria dysenterica. 

The second main issue for Maltby Low Common was the most suitable management regime for the surrounding grassland habitats. A report in 1984 recommended the adoption of a mowing regime as the best method of managing the habitats on this part of the common. However, it was recognised that grazing would perhaps be a better, but unfortunately unfeasible option. 
The main drawback with mowing is in its drastic effect on invertebrate populations of the tall vegetation - it completely removes their habitat. There are also impacts on the flora, where flowering or seeding may be affected. To minimise these effects, a rotational mowing regime on a biennial basis was adopted, with the mowing of each compartment set to the least damaging time of year for its botanical constituents. A further problem in this part of the common are areas of bracken. This plant has been sprayed with Asulox several times in the early 1980s, and since has been controlled by cutting and removing as much of the accumulated litter as possible. 

The other threats relate more generally to the entire common land unit as a whole. These relate primarily to the close proximity of a large housing estate. Problems identified include the lighting of fires, especially in dry springs (this activity associated with the illegal removal of trees, and may interfere with the mowing regime); motorcycle scrambling which occasionally causes severe problems on fragile areas; destruction of wildlife by illegal shooting, picking wildflowers, illegal tipping and damming of watercourses. The problem of tree removal appears to be a more general one of all of the woods in the area, particularly in Maltby Wood, to the north of the common. This appeared to originate at the time of the miners' strike, but has become more widespread since this time. Maltby Far Common, being largely an area of managed grassland appears not to be subjected to many of these problems. 

Yorkshire Wildlife Trust have recommended that the provision of motorcycling facilities should be pursued by the local council, and they are keen to see the erection of gates and other barriers to prevent vehicular access along the lanes which provide access onto the common.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: distant skylarks calling, lapwing, greenfinch, robin, large white butterfly.

VEG:
The largest area of vegetation on the common lies at (1). This area, which at the time of the visit was being grazed by tethered horses, appears to have a range of different grassland communities. Most appears to be unimproved neutral grassland. Much of this has a fairly tall sward with abundant Festuca ovina, Agrostis capillaris and Holcus lanatus with frequent Poa pratensis, Dactylis glomerata and Alopecurus pratensis. Forbs include locally frequent Taraxacum officinale agg., Hypochearis radicata, Achillea millefolium, Centaurea nigra and Plantago lanceolata, plus locally occasional Rumex obtusifolius and Anthriscus sylvestris. Locally there are areas with a much shorter turf dominated by Festuca ovina with abundant H. radicata, locally abundant Lotus corniculatus and A. millefolium, locally frequent Rumex acetosella and Trifolium repens, plus occasional P. lanceolata. 

A further neutral grassland community is represented by areas dominated by a new growth of Holcus lanatus. Locally within the neutral grassland are what appear to be transitions to an acidic grassland sward, with Nardus stricta becoming co-dominant with F. ovina. Locally frequent Luzula campestris was also noted here, as was one large patch of Carex hirta. To the extreme south of this area is a sward of grassland which appears not to be grazed at all and this is dominated by a tussocky sward of  Deschampsia cespitosa. Few other species are present, but locally occasional Ranunculus repens, Urtica dioica, Carex nigra and Cardamine pratensis were noted. 

Also in this locality is a small wet ditch dominated by a stand of Eleocharis palustris and a small patch of marshy grassland dominated by Carex nigra and Potentilla anserina with abundant Alopecurus sp. Occasional individuals of Rumex crispus and ?Chenopodium sp. were noted here. 

At (2) is a small overgrown verge with grassland dominated by Arrhenatherum elatius with frequent Anthriscus sylvestris and Urtica dioica, plus locally frequent Artemisia vulgaris, Heracleum sphondylium and Rumex obtusfolius. 

On the opposite side of the road (3) is further A. elatius and A. sylvestris grassland, with a defunct hedge of Crataegus monogyna, ultimately giving rise to a line of mature trees of C. monogyna, Quercus sp., and Fraxinus excelsior. 

Back on the other side of the road is an area of mown grassland, crossed by tarmac drives, in front of houses. Galium cruciata was noted at one point. Several mature planted trees are also present in this area - Prunus sp., Tilia sp. and Fagus sylvatica. 

Adjacent to here is a small patch of overgrown vegetation (4). This has rank grassland dominated by A. elatius, plus Bromus sterilis, Poa pratensis and Alopecurus pratensis, with tall ruderals and other forbs - Anthriscus sylvestris, Urtica dioica, Heracleum sphondylium, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Digitalis purpurea, Chamerion angustifolium, Galium aparine and  Stachys sylvatica. In addition there is scattered scrub represented by occasional bushes of Ulex europaeus, Rosa sp. and Rubus idaeus. There is also scattered bracken throughout and one tree of Quercus petraea.

MANAGE:
A significant part of the grassland on the common is grazed by tethered horses. This activity is seen as desirable, as so little of South Yorkshire common land appears to be grazed. This grassland could be important locally to birds such as skylark and lapwing. 
Part of the remainder is mown grassland in front of properties, while a small section, fenced from the rest, forms a part of a larger field of arable cultivation. 
An area of bare ground to the north of the common has various vehicles parked on it - a car, caravan, mobile horsebox, cart and landrover. 
Tarmac drives have been constructed across the mown grassland area to link adjacent properties to the road.


FAUNA:
Noted during site visit were: chaffinch, robin and yellowhammer. The call of a distant cuckoo was also heard.

VEG:
The common has basic habitat information available from the Phase 1 survey conducted by Barnsley MBC in 1988/89. This has been augmented by a field survey. 

The common has a small area of broadleaved woodland (1) which lies on the periphery of West Haigh Wood. This has a canopy of Quercus petrea and Betula pendula. The understorey has areas dominated by Pteridium aquilinum, some dominated by Holcus mollis and others by Deschampsia flexuosa. Locally occasional were Rubus fruticosus agg. and Hyacinthoides non-scripta. A second, smaller wooded strip to the west is dominated by B. pendula, with occasional Q. robur, and has a similar understorey. 

In the centre of the common is an 'island' of Calluna vulgaris heath surrounded by a broad bare 'race track', beyond which has a mosaic of heath and acidic grassland. The Calluna on the central heathy area is all in the form of seedling and young building phase plants (about 25cm), apparently kept in this condition by regular fires which appear to be started in this general vicinity. Much of the Calluna appears to be suffering from excessive trampling and very little of it looked to have flowered in the previous year. There are also scattered trees of Betula pendula here. 

The surrounding area also has suffered much burning, and is also badly trampled. The main grass species present are it Deschampsia flexuosa and Nardus stricta. Only at the extreme edges has the Calluna been allowed to grow into more mature plants. To the west of here is an area of neglected neutral grassland, which may have been disturbed in the past. This appears to be dominated by Arrhenatherum elatius, plus  Tussilago farfara, Bromus sterilis and Linaria vulgaris.

MANAGE:
The common appears unmanaged at present. It is clearly being degraded by its use as a 'race track', and the continuous burning (although this may be maintaining the heather in a youthful state). There are also piles of dupmed brick rubble around this area. The heath may have been part of a much larger area at one time - the substrate appears to be sandy and free draining. 
Despite this degradation, the common appears to form part of a mosaic of local wildlife habitats, significant amongst which are the adjoining Lady Wood and West Haigh Wood. 

Reference to the maps of the South Yorkshire Woodland Inventory indicate that although West Haigh Wood itself has been classified as ancient woodland (ie. as having had continuous use as woodland since at least the 1600s), the area of woodland to the east of the common appears to be defined as ancient woodland which has been cleared since the First Series OS 1:25,000 maps were produced (this being between the dates of 1901 and 1939). It appears to be typical of the acidic mixed oak-birch woodlands to be found on the Coal Measures series of South Yorkshire. A small corner of this woodland lies within a Second Tier site (No. 143) identified by the former South Yorkshire County Council in 1981 (see map).


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: skylark, chaffinch, wren, willow warbler, blue tit and yellowhammer.

VEG:
The common was covered by the Barnsley MBC Phase 1 survey in 1988/89, with basic habitat information being available. Additional notes were gathered during the field visit. The wooded portion of the site is also listed as part of a larger block of woodland - West Haigh Wood and Houghton Common, listed in the Shedule of Natural History sites complied by the now defunct South Yorkshire County Council in 1981. 

The main block of deciduous woodland lies to the west of the B6273 (1). This is dominated by a mixture of Quercus petraea and Betula pendula, usually with one species dominant in any given area. Other canopy trees noted locally, especially to the NW include Fagus sylvatica (including a "copper" variety), Aesculus hippocastanum and Castanea sativa. There appear to be several different understorey types present. Large areas have, Holcus mollis, H. lanatus and Agrostis capillaris. Other areas are dominated by Deschampsia flexuosa, while elsewhere there is Rubus fruticosus agg., or infestations of bracken Pteridium aquilinum. Other species noted at lower frequency include Milium effusum and Mercurialis perennis. The woodland appears to have affinities with either NVC types W10 or W16, or both, although more detailed survey work would be needed to define the communities. 

There appears to be little evidence of any tree regeneration through most of the wood, and most of the B. pendula are old trees, often with dead branches present. In addition, a number of dead trees were noted. Further, two areas were noted within the wood where areas occupied by B. pendula trees had succumbed to fire in recent years. One such an area has an infestation of Chamerion angustifolium. There could be subsequent regeneration in these areas. One area of birch regeneration is in a bracken-dominated patch lying next to the road (2). 

To the east of the road adjacent to here is a similar area with, at the margin of the common, a row of mature planted trees of Fagus sylvatica. 

To the south and east of the main wooded area lie a mosaic of other habitats. At (3), for example, is a stand of unimproved acidic grassland dominated by Deschampsia flexuosa with locally occasional Potentilla erecta, Carex nigra and Holcus lanatus. To the other side of the road (4) lies a large area dominated by bracken (NVC type U20) with scattered scrub bushes of Ulex europaeus and trees of B. pendula. Adjacent to a lay-by on this side of the road was also noted a large bush of Viburnum opulus. 

To the north of this area (5) is what appears to be a series of old workings of some kind. This has a complex mosaic habitats which include acidic grassland (D. flexuosa and Nardus stricta), neutral grassland plus tall ruderal species (Arrhenatherum elatius, Urtica dioica, Anthriscus sylvestris, plus one small stand of Reynoutria japonica next to the minor road), scrub (Crataegus monogyna, Ulex europaeus and Rubus fruticosus agg.), scattered broadleaved trees (B. pendula) and dense bracken.

MANAGE:
The common appears to be unmanaged. It has not been possible within the scope of this project to look into the management history of the site. 
Reference to the South Yorkshire Inventory of Ancient Woodland suggests that the woodland is not considered to be "ancient" in origin. This contrasts with the adjoining West Haigh Wood, which is listed. 
There was some evidence on the ground to suggest the location of the former wood bank around the latter site, which now forms part of the western boundary of the common. Trees of F. sylvatica, A. hippocastanum and Castanea sativa in the wooded part of the common are all clearly planted, while the remainder is likely to be secondary in origin. However, localised indicators of an ancient woodland ground flora persist in the presence of Mercurialis perennis. 

The woodland is one of a number in this area, including two which are SSSI (West Haigh Wood to the west and Howell Wood the the east) and therefore forms a part of this resource. The common also has the greatest area of broadleaved woodland of any in the county (apart from Thorne Moors).


FAUNA:
During the site survey a number of house sparrows were seen and the call of a distant cuckoo was heard.

VEG:
No pre-existing survey information. The common comprises a closely-mown amenity grassland sward, characterised by Lolium perenne, Taraxacum officinale agg., Bellis perennis and Trifolium repens. Around the edges of the main part of the common (and elsewhere) are rows of planted trees, mostly around 3.0m tall. These are mainly of an ornamental Prunus sp., plus Aesculus hippocastanum. Others include Sorbus sp., S. aucuparia, Fraxinus excelsior, Crataegus monogyna, Populus sp., Acer sp. and Fagus sylvatica.

MANAGE:
The common appears to be managed for its amenity value by the local authority. The grassland is intensively mown. Deciduous trees appear to have been planted between 10-20 years ago. The site appears to have little nature conservation interest.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: house sparrows, swift, greenfinch.

VEG:
The common comprises a closely-mown, species-poor amenity grassland sward. This is dominated by Lolium perenne with Bellis perennis, Plantago lanceolata, Trifolium repens and Taraxacum officinale agg. Localised areas also have Holcus lanatus, Dactylis glomerata, Poa trivialis and P. annua. Two planted trees of Populus sp. are also present.

MANAGE:
The common is regularly mown, presumably by the local authority. The site appears to have no, or little conservation value. Note that four garages have been erected on the southern part of the common.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site survey were: willow warbler, swift, meadow pipit, wren, starling, robin, yellowhammer, magpie, orange tip butterfly and 14-spot ladybird.

VEG:
The major part of the site, which appears to be a disused sandstone quarry, supports Calluna vulgaris dry dwarf shrub heath. For the most part this heath has almost 100 per cent cover of  Calluna, mostly mature and even-aged, around 50cm tall. Much of this vegetation has little in the way of understorey species present. Occasional plants of Erica cinerea are also present among the Calluna. Locally the Calluna is somewhat taller and becoming senescent, while small areas have been burnt in recent years - most of these show some regeneration of young plants, although there are signs that some of these burnt areas are being invaded by scattered bracken, as are other parts of the heath. 

Elsewhere in the heath, often in hollows, is locally abundant Vaccinium myrtillus, accompanied by Deschampsia flexuosa. Most of the heath on the common appears to belong to NVC type H9, possibly with transitions to H12 where V. myrtillus becomes dominant. Small areas of the heath are also dominated by bushes of Ulex gallii and these may be of NVC type H8. Some of these areas have also been burnt. 

Further localised areas of the heath are being invaded by seedling trees of it Betula spp.,  Quercus spp., Sorbus aucuparia and Acer pseudoplatanus. 

There appears to be one main path through the common, with numerous other small ones; these are often grassy at the edges, dominated by Festuca ovina and D. flexuosa. Noted elsewhere were  Anthoxanthum odoratum, Cynosurus cristatus, Hypericum tetrapterum, Lotus corniculatus, Plantago lanceolata, Senecio jacobea, Luzula campestris, Heracleum sphondylium and Rubus fruticosus agg.  

One of the burnt areas of Calluna heath also was noted to have several individuals of Vaccinium vitis-idaea. 

The topography of the common is complex, with the main hollow of the quarry being surrounded by several narrow steep-sided valleys and ridges, apparently originating from the quarry waste. To the south-west of the common is a steep wooded bank of Acer pseudoplatanus, Betula spp., and Salix spp., with and understorey of occasional trees of Crataegus monogyna. One bush of Malus sp. was also noted. The field layer has Urtica dioica, R. fruticosus agg., Galium aparine and Pteridium aquilinum. On the top of the slope just to the north of the wooded portion is an area infested by Reynoutria japonica.

MANAGE:
The site is clearly an important remnant of heathland, part of a somewhat larger area comprising Loxley and Wadsley Common, listed as a second tier site on the Schedule of Natural History Sites complied by the former South Yorkshire County Council. 

The common supports the largest area of dry heath on South Yorkshire common land. The site appears to be threatened by the apparent spread of bracken and trees onto the Calluna heath. The ideal management objective would probably be to control these factors and maintain a diversity of Calluna plants of different ages and growth forms. Controlled rotational burning of Calluna is generally the best method of achieving this. The occurrence of burning of small parts of the site has been noted, but it is not known whether this was deliberate management, or vandalism. 

There is some evidence to suggest that bracken appears to be invading in the areas of recently burnt heath, and generally it is not recommended to burn heather where bracken is present. However, a fuller assessment of the dynamics of bracken on the site before the best management option can be decided upon. 

The heath on the common provides the only common land record for Vaccinium vitis-idaea for South Yorkshire. The presence of Reynoutria japonica may also be an adverse sign. There has been some dumping of rubbish under trees in the wooded area.


FAUNA:
Noted during site visit were: willow warbler, yellowhammer, cuckoo, swallow.

VEG:
The common comprises two narrow sections of verge at the edge of a minor road. A complex mixture of different habitat types are present. 

The smaller portion to the west is fenced from the road and is contiguous with the adjacent field, this being cattle grazed. This was viewed from the road and appears to support a sward of semi-improved neutral grassland dominated by  Festuca ovina and Cynosurus cristatus with  Bellis perennis, Trifolium pratense, Achillea millefolium, Lathyrus pratensis, Taraxacum officinale agg., Heracleum sphondylium, Cirsium arvense and Cerastium fontanum. 30 per cent of this area also has dwarf shrubs in the form of bushes of Ulex gallii. 

The larger strip, moving from west-to-east, has the following habitat areas. To the extreme west (1) there is a small lay-by next to the road. Adjacent to here are tall ruderal species, mostly Urtica dioica, with some Anthriscus sylvestris, Chamerion angustifolium and Cirsium arvense. Other plants present, some of which are dumped garden escapes, include Geranium sp., Lamium spp. (incl. L. album), Centaurea montana, Myosotis sp., Plantago lanceolata, Taraxacum officinale agg., Potentilla reptans and Ranunculus repens. 

At (2) there is a dense stand of Aegopodium podagraria with more A. sylvestris and C. angustifolium, plus Rubus fruticosus agg., and occasional plants of Reynoutria japonica. 

At (3) Pteridium aquilinum becomes co-dominant with A. podagraria and there is also a small stand of Myrrhis odorata and occasional individuals of Hyacinthoides non-scripta. 

At (4) P. aquilinum is dominant, and there is a small roadside stand of Arctium minus. 

At (5) the P. aquilinum is accompanied by patches of dwarf shrub heath dominated by Calluna vulgaris and Vaccinium myrtillus. 

Beyond here (6) the rest of the verge has a 5.0m wide strip next to the road which is neutral grassland plus tall ruderal - Arrhenatherm elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Festuca rubra, Deschampsia cespitosa, Alopecurus pratensis, C. angustifolium, H. sphondylium and A. sylvestris. There is also a further stand of M. odorata. Behind this is a mosaic of Calluna/V. myrtillus heath, plus acidic grassland of Deschampsia flexuosa, Galium saxatile and Potentilla erecta. Occasional bushes of Salix cinerea are present and occasional small clumps of Molinia caerulea.

MANAGE:
The smaller portion of the common is contiguous with a larger grazing unit and is grazed by cattle. The larger strip appears unmanaged. There has been dumping of garden and other rubbish, such as glass, tin cans etc. near to the lay-by. 

The common has a fairly wide botanical diversity and includes the only common land record for  Myrrhis odorata in the county. Small infestation of Reynoutria japonica present, which may lead to suppression of some of the botanical diversity.


FAUNA:
Noted during site survey were: the calls of curlew, lapwing, skylark, golden plover and meadow pipit. Evidence of red grouse in the form of pellets. A cuckoo and a pied wagtail were also noted. Two local people met at the time also claimed that merlin and short-eared owl are found in this area.

VEG:
The common lies on the hilltop on the divide between Huddersfield and Sheffield, some way south of Holmfirth. A remnant of blanket bog lies along one edge of the common, giving way to grass/heath on the thin peat at the other side. The blanket bog has been classified as the dry modified category in Phase 1 terms and appears representative of a type found extensively on the plateaux of the South Pennines. This is dominated by Calluna vulgaris and Eriophorum vaginatum with locally frequent Empetrum nigrum and Eriophorum angustifolium (NVC type M20). The Calluna is at between 75-90 per cent cover and generally exists as healthy mature plants around 0.5m tall. There were few signs of any grazing, and most plants appeared to have flowered well in the previous growing season. 
At the margin of the peat layer, which is about 1.5m deep, there is a complex mosaic of acidic grassland plus dwarf shrub heath, and locally, remnants of dry mofified bog vegetation. The acidic grassland is dominated by Nardus stricta (NVC type U5), within which there is locally abundant Calluna vulgaris, locally frequent  Juncus effusus, Molinia caerulea, Deschampsia cespitosa, Vaccinium myrtillus and Empetrum nigrum, plus locally occasional Erica tetralix. Toward the edge of the road the vegetation has been classified as pure acidic grassland as there is only about 10% cover of Calluna vulgaris. Other species noted in this area away from the deep peat include Hypnum cupressiforme, Polytrichum ?formosum, Campylopus introflexus, Vicia sepium, Achillea millefolium, Galium saxatile and Ranunculus repens. Close to the road are some wet areas with D. cespitosa, Juncus squarrosus, Cardamine pratensis, Holcus lanatus, Cirsium palustre and Dactylis glomerata.

MANAGE:
The common is unfenced from the surrounding land along its northern and western edges. As a result it appears to be subject to occasional slight grazing by sheep. There is also a small area at the edge of the mire surface where peat is still being removed. This material is stacked on old wooden pallets to enable it to dry. This is the only South Yorkshire common to have any upland blanket mire recorded. It lies just outside the boundary of the recently designated Dark Peak SSSI. The blanket mire on the common appears typical of much of that within the scheduled area. Several of the upland breeding birds, a major factor in designating this SSSI, appear to be observed around the common, although it is only a very small site.


FAUNA:
Starling, lapwing, wood pigeon and mallard were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Stafford common lies on level to gently sloping land. Marston Brook runs along part of the eastern edge and crosses the northern end of the common and Sandyford Brook runs along part of the western edge. 

The majority of the vegetation comprises improved grassland with frequent to abundant {\it Lolium perenne}, frequent {\it Cynosurus cristatus} and occasional {\it Trifolium repens, Leontodon autumnalis, Ranunculus acris, Plantago major, Taraxacum officinale} and {\it Bellis perennis}. {\it Agrostis stolonifera} is locally frequent. The recreation area at the south-western end supports {\it Lolium perenne} grassland with occasional {\it Dactylis glomerata, Hypochaeris radicata, Leontodon autumnalis} and {\it Rumex acetosella}. There is a small marshy area (2) with frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Cynosurus cristatus} and occasional {\it Ranunculus flammula, Juncus effusus, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}. A stream emerges briefly at (1) channelled by a concrete structure but supporting {\it Apium nodiflorum, Veronica beccabunga} and {\it Lemna} sp.

There are two areas of semi-improved neutral grassland on the common. The area west of Common road with less {\it Lolium perenne}, frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata} and occasional {\it Festuca rubra} and {\it Holcus lanatus}. The small area adjacent to the A513 supports a rank community of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}. 

Sandiford Brook supports an emergent vegetation of {\it Glyceria maxima, Typha angustifolia, Epilobium hirsutum, Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Phragmites australis} and occasional {\it Salix fragilis}. 

The majority of the common is bordered by species-poor hedgerows of {\it Crataegus monogyna}. {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Salix fragilis} occur in the hedges bordering the streams and occasional hedgerow trees of {\it Quercus robur} occur at the northern end of the common bordering Marston Lane. Parts of the common are fenced. There is a line of {\it Tilia x vulgaris} along common walk.

MANAGE:
The recreation area is probably maintained by regular mowing but the remainder was being grazed by cattle and horses at a moderate level (although there are no registered rights on the common). The common has evidently been heavily improved. The vegetation of the Sandyford Brook reflects this being quite overgrown by lush vegetation. The marshy area supported lapwing. 

There were a number of fresh shallow pits on the common - people have been digging soil? There is an area of bare ground on the recreation ground near the gate probably caused by cars being allowed to park on the common on occasions. The A513 has been constructed across the northern end of the common.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the site visit. Evidence of rabbits were recorded during the a previous site visit (Sue Sheppard, 23.02.92).

VEG:
Marshes Hill is situated on a narrow exposed ridge sloping steeply to the south-west and north-east over-looking the Head of Trent valley. At 275m above sea level the common is just below the 300m cut-off point for upland moorland (S.Sheppard). 

The majority of the common supports acid dry dwarf-shrub heath of {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. Some {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Juncus squarrosus, Nardus stricta} and {\it Molinia caerulea} are present. {\it Ulex gallii} and {\it U. europaeus} are scattered across the northern end of the common and along the roadside. 

There is an area of marshy grassland along the western edge of the common dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. 

The southern end and areas along the roadside are fairly disturbed supporting relicts of heathland interspersed with semi-improved neutral grassland species {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus mollis, Elytrigia repens, Dactylis glomerata, Geranium pratense, Agrostis capillaris, Ranunculus repens, Leontodon autumnalis, Trifolium repens, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and tall ruderal species {\it Urtica dioica, Chamerion angustifolium, Heracleum sphondylium} and some {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. 

West of the track to Burnfields the community is damper with {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Juncus effusus} and {\it Achillea ptarmica}. A grassy track runs along the eastern edge north of Burnfields supporting semi-improved neutral grassland.

MANAGE:
Despite an apparent lack of management the heathland appears fairly healthy, apparently maintained by wind clipping as a result of the exposed position. However there is little pioneer heather and the majority falls within the mature and degenerate stages. Intervention may be required to ensure the continuity of the heathland. There has been a decline in the cover of {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} since 1986 in the area now classified as marshy grassland and an increase in the cover of {\it Ulex} spp. at the northern end of the common.

The common is a popular recreation area (managed as a viewpoint although not sign-posted) which may explain the disturbed nature of the vegetation at the southern end of the common near the car park. Some dumping was noted on the common in 1992 which may also have lead to local nutrient enrichment here. There has been some recent improvement work on the car park. The track along the eastern edge north of Burnfields is fenced off from the rest of the common.

Gorse encroachment on the common may become a problem in the future.


FAUNA:
Meadow brown and small tortoiseshell were the most frequent butterflies encountered during the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust (SWT) Phase 1 survey 14.07.95 with smaller numbers of painted lady, small heath and red admiral. Cinnabar moth caterpillars and burnet moths were noted and the dragonfly {\it Libellula depressa}. Bumblebees and hoverflies were observed and grasshoppers heard. Abundant rabbit activity was recorded in the western part of the site and a common frog was found in the wetter grassland near the stream. An insect foray on 16.07.93 by members of SWT recorded the following: small skipper, common blue and green-veined white butterflies, mother of pearl moth, common green and brown grasshoppers, pond skater and a hawker dragonfly {\it Aeschna} sp. Large and small whites, small tortoiseshell, small copper and wall brown butterflies, {\it Aeschna grandis} and {\it Sympetrum striolatum} dragonflies and the hoverflies {\it Heliophilus pendulus, Episyrphus balteatus} and {\it Syrphus} sp. were recorded by R. Hill (27.09.85), a mother shipton moth {\it Callistege mi} by N.B. Baskerville 05.88 and a whirligig beetle {\it Gyrinus} sp. by S. Brady 26.03.94.

Coot, moorhen, mallard, heron, kestrel, sparrowhawk, green woodpecker, goldfinch, fieldfare and redwing have been recorded from the common and the southern hedgerow supports yellowhammer and corn bunting (S. Brady). 

45 resident species of bird have been recorded from the common (extract from "The History and Ecology of Pipe Green, Lichfield" by R. Thomson and V. Hopley to mark the 200th Anniversary of the Pipe Green Trust 1793-1993) including bullfinch, coal tit, dunnock, goldcrest, grey partridge, all three woodpeckers, lapwing, meadow pipit, red-legged partridge, reed bunting, tawny owl, tree sparrow and willow tit. In addition to these are the winter visitors brambling, redwing, fieldfare and siskin, the summer visitors blackcap, chiffchaff, cuckoo, hobby, house martin, skylark, swallow, swift, turtle dove, whitethroat and willow warbler with the occasional visitors canada goose, common and green sandpipers, great black-backed and herring gulls, linnet, snipe and spotted flycatcher.

Water vole was recorded from the stream 07.11.89, M.G. July.

VEG:
Pipe Green common is situated to the north-west of the City of Lichfield mainly surrounded by agricultural land. A small block of mixed woodland adjoins the common to the west and playing fields lie to the east. The Leamonsley Brook flows across the southern end of the common. The common was surveyed by the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust 14.07.95 and on 01.06.89 by English Nature on which the following description is based.

The majority of the common supports a semi-improved grassland sward of predominantly {\it Agrostis capillaris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus, Festuca rubra} and {\it Cynosurus cristatus} with frequent {\it Rumex acetosa, Ranunculus acris, Stellaria graminea, Lotus corniculatus, Hypochaeris radicata, Plantago lanceolata} and less commonly {\it Conopodium majus, Pilosella officinarum} and {\it Campanula rotundifolium}. {\it Rumex acetosella} and {\it Potentilla erecta} are locally abundant and {\it Nardus stricta} and {\it Galium saxatile} locally occasional. {\it Carex hirta} is locally abundant in lower lying parts. 

The lower lying part of the common near the stream supports marshy grassland with frequent to abundant {\it Juncus effusus, Lotus pedunculatus} and {\it Galium palustre} and occasional {\it Lychnis flos-cuculi, Juncus articulatus, J. acutiflorus, Cirsium palustre} and {\it Carex panicea} (locally abundant). {\it Juncus inflexus} is locally dominant. {\it Ranunculus flammula} and {\it Succisa pratensis} were recorded as locally frequent during the EN Grassland Inventory survey 01.06.89.

The stream supports a number of aquatic plants including frequent {\it Sparganium erectum, Veronica beccabunga, Apium nodiflorum, Lemna} sp. and {\it Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum} and with the uncommon species {\it Veronica catenata} and {\it Berula erecta} in one locality. In places the banks support abundant {\it Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Scrophularia auriculata} while elsewhere {\it Solanum dulcamara} is dominant. Other species recorded from the banks include {\it Carex paniculata, Deschampsia cespitosa, Juncus effusus} and {\it Senecio aquaticus}. {\it Alnus glutinosa} is scattered along the stream, particularly at the eastern end. 

Hedges of predominantly {\it Crataegus monogyna} with occasional {\it Sambucus nigra, Ilex aquifolium, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Rosa} sp. surround most of the common with a tall fence where it abuts Lady Muriel's Belt and Fitzherbert Firs plantation. The southern boundary consists of a wide wet ditch choked with {\it Apium nodiflorum, Glyceria} sp., {\it Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum} and {\it Juncus} spp. In 1986 {\it Prunus avium} was planted alongside the ditch as a screen. 

There is a small plantation of {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Betula pendula, Aesculus hippocastanum, Quercus} sp. and {\it Fagus sylvatica} along the western boundary. 

Additional species of interest recorded from the common include {\it Alchemilla filicaulis} ssp. {\it vestita} and {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris}. {\it Saxifraga granulata} and {\it Triglochin palustris} were recorded by S. Brady in 1994.

The common is notable for a rich fungus flora some 112 species having been recorded including the rare {\it Mycena aetites}.

MANAGE:
The common is currently managed by fairly light grazing with cattle (although there are no registered rights on the common) and would possibly benefit from slightly higher grazing levels. It is managed by the Pipe Green Trust for conservation. Part of the common at least has been reported to have been ploughed during the war. A small plantation has been planted along the western boundary and some {\it Prunus avium} planted along the southern boundary. The populations of the scarcer plants should be monitored and appropriate action taken to maintain these if necessary.


FAUNA:
Wood pigeon was recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Belmont Green is a level strip of common land supporting semi-improved neutral grassland and broadleaved scrubby woodland. 

The grassland consists of {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Holcus lanatus} with locally frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and occasional {\it Lolium perenne, Ranunculus repens, Rumex acetosa, Hypochaeris radicata, Leontodon autumnalis, Rumex obtusifolius, Vicia sativa, Centaurea nigra} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium}. The south-western end is crossed by a ditch overgrown with {\it Calystegia sepium, Phalaris arundinacea, Urtica dioica} and occasional {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Salix fragilis}.

Woodland canopy species include {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with understorey and scrub species {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ulmus glabra, Acer campestre, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Sambucus nigra}. Groundflora species recorded were {\it Holcus mollis, Hedera helix, Dryopteris dilatata, Bromopsis ramosa, Chamerion angustifolium, Geranium robertianum, Stachys sylvatica, Silene} sp. and {\it Urtica dioica}. 

Towards the north-eastern end of the common is an area of scattered scrub and tall ruderal vegetation comprising {\it Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra, Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Urtica dioica}. 

Overgrown {\it Crataegus monogyna} hedgerows border the south-eastern edge of the common encroaching in places and with occasional {\it Quercus robur}. There is an earth bank along the road side.

MANAGE:
The grassland areas are managed by mowing with the immediate picnic area being mown more frequently. There has been some thinning out of the scrubby woodland to provide paths linking the open areas of grassland. The area occupied by scattered scrub and tall ruderal vegetation had been burnt in recent years. The raised bank along the roadside has probably been constructed to prevent vehicles from driving onto the common. Part of the south-westernmost spur had possibly been incorporated into the adjoining field. Some dumping of garden rubbish was noted on the separate smaller section at the north-eastern end.


VEG:
Hanbury Common is situated on a north-facing slope overlooking the Dove valley. Much of the common is covered by scrub comprising {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Acer campestre, Sambucus nigra, Ulmus glabra, Acer pseudoplatanus, Quercus robur, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Rosa} sp. {\it Dryopteris felix-mas} and {\it Viola hirta} were recorded amongst the scrub. At the southern end of the common on a flatter area at the top of the hill is an area of rank semi-improved neutral grassland with frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Elytrigia repens} and occasional {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Rumex obtusifolius, Cirsium arvense, Urtica dioica, Centaurea nigra, Achillea millefolium, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Trifolium pratense}. {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Betula pendula} are scattered through the grassland. A second area of coarse semi-improved neutral grassland is present at the northern end of the common used as a picnic area. The eastern end of the common supports tall ruderal vegetation of predominantly {\it Urtica dioica} with {\it Galium aparine} and {\it Tamus communis} with scattered scrub.

MANAGE:
The common appears little managed. The grass around the picnic area had been cut back but was becoming encroached with {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Unless managed the grassland at the southern end of the common will become lost to scrub encroachment. Scrub has spread considerably on the common since the survey in 1979 when the common was described as "an area of former woodland or scrub that has been cleared to leave a rough grassy slope with scattered hawthorn scrub". It would probably be most beneficial to allow the scrub to develop into woodland.


VEG:
Milford common is a small common adjoining the north-eastern end of Cannock Chase. The grassland adjoining the road is level rising to the south where it adjoins CL89.

The northern half of the common consists of an amenity grassland sward with frequent to abundant {\it Lolium perenne}, occasional {\it Holcus lanatus, Taraxacum officinale, Hypochaeris radicata, Leontodon autumnalis} and {\it Dactylis glomerata} and locally frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca rubra}.

The southern half comprises a variety of habitats. There is an area of mixed plantation of {\it Castanea sativa, Betula pendula, Sorbus aucuparia, Pinus} sp., {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it Ulex europaeus} and an area of semi-natural broadleaved {\it Quercus robur} woodland with an eroded groundflora of {\it Holcus mollis} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} with a few mature {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Quercus robur} near the road. Between the woodland and car park is an area of rank semi-improved neutral grassland dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with locally dominant {\it Urtica dioica}. To the west of the plantation is an area of continuous scrub comprising {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Quercus robur, Ulex europaeus} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and to the south, an area of unimproved acid grassland of {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} with occasional {\it Calluna vulgaris, Nardus stricta} and scattered {\it Betula pendula}.

MANAGE:
The northern half of the common is mown fairly regularly as a recreation area. The remainder of the common appears unmanaged with scrub encroachment in places. There is a small area of mixed plantation. The groundflora of the semi-natural broadleaved woodland is very eroded from recreational use.


FAUNA:
Swallow was recorded during the site visit. 557! species of invertebrate have been recorded from the common. The invertebrate survey by S.Falk recorded the red data book listed nomad bee {\it Nomada lathburiana} and the nationally scarce species {\it Andrena humilis} (Hymenoptera), {\it Acanthiophilus helianthi, Paroxyna absinthii, Hilara albipennis} and {\it Scathophaga decipiens} (Diptera), {\it Aulacigastromyia anisodactyla} and {\it Cneorhunus plumbeus} (weevil). A number of specialist species were recorded: the bugs {\it Keidocerys truncatulus} and {\it Orthotylus ericetorum} and the beetles {\it Chilocorus bipustulatus, Lochmaea suturalis, Micrelus ericae} and {\it Strophosomus sus} (heathland specialists), the bugs {\it Anthocoris sarothamni, Heterocordylus tibialis} and {\it Bruchidium villosus} (on broom), the beetles {\it Apion scutellare, A. ulicis} and {\it Sitona tibialis} (on gorse) also {\it Asciodema obsoletum} (bug), green hairstreak butterfly caterpillars, {\it Apion atratulum} and {\it Sitona regensteinensis} (beetles) (on broom and gorse), {\it Dolichopus atripes} and {\it Pseudocoenosia solitariana} (Diptera - wet heath and bog), the bug {\it Monalocoris filicis} and {\it Strogylogaster} sawflies (on bracken). The hoverfly {\it Chrysotoxum arcuatum}, the fly {\it Acanthiophilus helianthi} and the click beetle {\it Selatosomus aeneus} occur here close to the edge of their range.

VEG:
Barlaston common is situated on a gentle south-west facing slope. The common is divided into two main parts separated by the A5005. 

The larger area to the west is dominated by a marshy grassland of {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} with occasional {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix, Juncus squarrosus, J. effusus, Potentilla erecta, Vaccinium myrtillus, Vaccinium vitis-idaea} and some scattered scrub of {\it Ulex europaeus}. {\it Eriophorum} sp. was also recorded during the 1992 site visit (S. Sheppard). {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} is locally frequent with occasional {\it Galeopsis tetrahit, Juncus conglomeratus, Achillea ptarmica, Cirsium arvense, Chamerion angustifolium, Epilobium hirsutum, Holcus} sp., {\it Valeriana officinalis, Equisetum arvense, Galium palustre, G. aparine, Solanum dulcamara, Ranunculus flammula} and some scattered scrub of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Betula pendula, Ulex europaeus, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Rosa} sp. near the small stream to the north-west. There are a couple of small areas of wet dwarf-shrub heath to the south of {\it Vaccinium vitis-idaea} with {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix, Molinia caerulea} and {\it Carex nigra}.

There are several small areas of continuous scrub and woodland fringing the common comprising {\it Ulex europaeus} (particularly along Cocknage Road), {\it Quercus robur, Betula pendula, Corylus avellana, Sambucus nigra, Rosa} sp. and {\it Rubus idaeus}.

Along the edge of the A5005 is an area of semi-improved neutral grassland with scattered scrub and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. Species recorded include {\it Holcus lanatus, Deschampsia flexuosa, Chamerion angustifolium} and occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. There is a small area with no scrub or {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris, Festuca rubra, Holcus} sp., {\it Plantago lanceolata} and {\it Leontodon autumnalis} with occasional {\it Achillea millefolium, Phleum pratense} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}.

The area east of the A5005 supports an area of dry heath/acid grassland mosaic with frequent {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Calluna vulgaris, Deschampsia flexuosa, Nardus stricta} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. There is an area of unimproved acid grassland to the east of {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Nardus stricta, Holcus mollis, Juncus squarrosus, Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}. 

The north-eastern tip of the common supports a tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Urtica dioica, Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Armoracia rusticana} with scattered {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. scrub. There was some {\it Calluna vulgaris} and one plant of {\it Erica cinerea}.

At the southern end of this part of the common are areas of woodland and scrub of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pendula} with some {\it Pteridium aquilinum} amongst the scrub.

There is a small disused quarry at the western end with {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Achillea millefolium, Agrostis capillaris, Festuca rubra} and {\it Leontodon autumnalis} growing on the quarry floor.

Along the roadsides are small areas of continuous scrub, semi-improved neutral grassland and tall ruderal vegetation. Along Common Lane the scrub comprises {\it Ulex europaeus} and the grassland {\it Holcus mollis, Dactylis glomerata, Agrostis capillaris, Hypochaeris radicata, Leontodon autumnalis, Lolium perenne, Elytrigia repens, Cynosurus cristatus, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Rumex acetosa}. The scrub adjacent to the A5005 comprises {\it Quercus robur, Betula pendula} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}, the grassland {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus mollis, Festuca rubra, Elytrigia repens, Trifolium pratense, Agrostis capillaris, Cirsium arvense, Heracleum sphondylium, Anthriscus sylvestris, Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and there is an area of {\it Urtica dioica, Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Armoracia rusticana}.

MANAGE:
There seems to be little management on the common and it is becoming encroached with scrub. 

The western portion of the common was possibly once wet heath which has degraded with the lack of management. With appropriate management this area could possibly be restored. Some areas, particularly in the wetter parts are becoming rank. There has possibly been some control of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} alongside the A5005 at the southern end west of the road. 

East of the A5005 the area is more heavily used for recreation and is suffering from the pressure. Local nutrient enrichment, tipping or disturbance has probably resulted in the areas of tall ruderal vegetation and semi-improved neutral grassland. One area (mapped as bare ground with scattered scrub) had been burnt fairly recently, probably accidentally. Ideally, recreational use should be controlled and nutrient enriched areas could be stripped and restored to heathland.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the site visit. Butterflies recorded from the common in 1983 were small tortoiseshell, orange tip, meadow brown, gatekeeper, small and large skippers and large, small and green-veined whites. 85 species of moth have been recorded from the common including several species of micro moth not known to occur elsewhere in Staffordshire ({\it Thelechrysis tripuncta, Cnephasis pasiuana, Crambus uliginossellus, Oidaematophrus lithodactyla} and {\it Phalonia rupicola}). 23 species of spiders were recorded from the common 1991-92 (W. Rixom) including two species uncommon in Staffordshire ({\it Ozyptila trux} and {\it Pirata latitans}) and 53 species of beetle in 1994 (E. Brown). The very local Neuropteran {\it Chrysepa phyllochroma} has also been recorded.

VEG:
Allimore Green Common is managed as a nature reserve by the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust (it is also a SSSI). Unfortunately the site was visited quite late in the survey season when the sward was fairly tall making it difficult to survey. The majority of this description is therefore based on existing records. 

The common comprises an area of acidic marshy grassland. The area is very diverse supporting some 140 species of flowering plants. A survey in 1986 revealed a complex of NVC grassland communities. The three main communities are MG10 {\it Juncus effusus} rush pasture, {\it Juncus inflexus} sub-community, M23 {\it Juncus effusus/acutiflorus-Galium palustre} rush pasture and a {\it Molinia caerulea}-dominated community. 

The MG10 supports, in addition, frequent {\it Agrostis stolonifera, Holcus lanatus, Angelica sylvestris, Lotus pedunculatus, Mentha arvensis, Ranunculus repens, Centaurea nigra, Pulicaria dysenterica}, locally frequent {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Festuca rubra, Molinia caerulea, Caltha palustris, Filipendula ulmaria, Juncus acutiflorus} and occasional species including {\it Dactylorhiza} spp., {\it Equisetum palustre} and {\it Lychnis flos-cuculi}. 

The M23 community supports in addition locally frequent {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Juncus inflexus, J. tenuis} and {\it Ranunculus repens} and a few occasional species including {\it Juncus subnodulosus}. {\it Juncus gerardii} a species generally associated with salt marshes was recorded from this community. 

The {\it Molinia caerulea}-dominated community has frequent {\it Holcus lanatus} and occasional species such as {\it Cirsium dissectum, Juncus} spp. and {\it Succisa pratensis}. 

There are small areas of MG5c {\it Centaurea nigra-Cynosurus cristatus} meadow and pasture, {\it Danthonia decumbens} sub-community with species such as abundant {\it Cirsium dissectum}, frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Molinia caerulea, Carex hirta, C. panicea} and {\it Centaurea nigra}, locally frequent {\it Parnassia palustris, Juncus acutiflorus} and {\it Triglochin palustris} and occasional species including {\it Linum catharticum, Polygala vulgaris, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Filipendula ulmaria, Gymnadaenia conopsea, Epipactis palustris, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Succisa pratensis, Juncus} spp. and {\it Briza media}. {\it Anagallis tenella} was recorded from this community as a rare component. 

Other communities recorded were small areas of MG5 {\it Lathyrus pratensis} sub-community, MG1 {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} rough pasture, MG13 {\it Agrostis stolonifera-Alopecurus geniculatus} grassland and MG9 {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} coarse grassland. {\it Eleocharis uniglumis} occurs in a winter wet hollow at the northern end of the common. 

Narrow strips of {\it Alnus glutinosa} woodland fringe the eastern and western boundaries with an groundflora of {\it Holcus mollis, Poa trivialis} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg.

There are records for 29 species of fungi from the common (list compiled 1994).

MANAGE:
The common is managed as a nature reserve by the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust. At the time of the site visit the common was being grazed by eight cattle. The sward was fairly tall (50cm plus) and possibly a little rank. The cattle had evidently only recently been put onto the common. With grasses such as {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} present on the common I would anticipate higher/earlier grazing to be more appropriate to maintain the diversity and prevent these grasses and the commoner rushes from coming to dominate the sward. Allowing the sward to become so tall may also have a deleterious effect on the lower growing species. However there could be several other important factors not evident from a single site visit to be considered in the management. Some {\it Alnus glutinosus} scrub was noted encroaching into the grassland.


FAUNA:
Starlings were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Walton Hill common is a mostly level area of common land sloping gently to the west. The vegetation comprises predominantly semi-improved neutral grassland with frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Poa pratensis} with occasional {\it Lolium perenne, Dactylis glomerata, Trifolium repens, Bellis perennis, Festuca rubra} and {\it Holcus lanatus}. 

At the northern end of the common are a couple of rank areas supporting {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Festuca rubra, Lamium album, Chamerion angustifolium, Urtica dioica, Anthriscus sylvestris, Dactylis glomerata, Rumex acetosa, Plantago lanceolata, Holcus lanatus, Ulex europaeus, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and young {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. 

The grassland immediately in front of and alongside Walton Heath Farm is suffering from disturbance and damper in places with {\it Polygonum aviculare, Juncus effusus, Polygonum persicaria, Agrostis stolonifera, Geranium dissectum, Tripleurospermum inodorum, Ranunculus repens, Filago vulgaris, Galeopsis tetrahit, Heracleum sphondylium, Urtica dioica, Rumex} spp., {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Linaria purpurea}. 

At the extreme southern end of the common is a small pond hidden in scrub of {\it Salix cinerea, Crataegus monogyna, Quercus robur, Prunus spinosa, Ilex aquifolium, Fraxinus excelsior, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Prunus spinosa}. The pond was almost dry at the time of the site visit with no aquatic vegetation and a few dumped car tyres.

There is a building on the common at the northern end surrounded by a few ornamental species such as {\it Buddleja davidii, Potentilla, Berberis} and a species of conifer. Along the roadside north of the building is an area of {\it Salix cinerea, Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Corylus avellana} scrub with occasional {\it Salix fragilis}.

The common is surrounded by species-poor intact hedgerows of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}.

MANAGE:
The majority of the common is mown as an amenity area with a football pitch. A few small areas are apparently unmanaged. The disturbed areas around the farm are caused by farm vehicles being driven over the grassland and this area is also used for storing farm machinery on. There is a building on the northern end of the common.


VEG:
Yarnfield green consists of a small area of improved {\it Lolium perenne} grassland with occasional {\it Bellis perennis}. It is continuous with a recreation area to the south, the boundary marked by mature {\it Salix fragilis, Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. There is an outlying fragment of woodland at the western end of the common of similar composition with {\it Corylus avellana}. Part of the western boundary consists of a tall hedgerow of {\it Alnus glutinosa, Corylus avellana, Prunus spinosa, Fraxinus excelsior, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}.


FAUNA:
Magpie, swallow, blackbird and kestrel were recorded during the site visit. Green woodpecker, skylark, blackcap, whitethroat, willow warbler, meadow pipit, greenfinch, linnet, yellowhammer and reed bunting were recorded in 1990 (M. July). Two Red Data Book species (the nomad bees {\it Nomada signata} and {\it N. lathburiana}) and six nationally scarce species (the bees {\it Andrena humilis} and {\it Nomada pleurosticta}, the hoverfly {\it Orthonevra geniculata}, {\it Opomyza lineatopunctata} (Dipteran), the dungfly {\it Scathophaga decipens} and the picture-winged fly {\it Paroxyna absinthii}) were recorded from the common (draft report, S. Falk, 1995?). In addition a number of specialist heathland and bog invertebrate species were recorded. Common lizard also occurs on the common.

VEG:
Gentleshaw common is situated on a low hill on the southern flanks of Cannock Chase sloping sharply to the southwest from a small plateau at the northern end from which a number of quite pronounced valleys radiate out. It is an important site in that its floristic character has elements of both oceanic western and northern heaths typical of the Cannock Chase plateau and exhibits a well developed transition from dry to humid heath. There is a large disused sand quarry at the south-western end of the common.

A large proportion of the common is extensively invaded by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scrub forming locally dense stands. The scrub comprises {\it Betula pendula, Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} and in wetter areas {\it Betula pubescens} and {\it Salix cinerea}. 

Much of the site is free-draining supporting areas of dry heath/acid grassland mosaics and dry heath. The major species comprise {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} with {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Nardus stricta, Erica cinerea, Juncus squarrosus, Carex binervis} and more locally {\it Vaccinium vitis-idaea}. {\it Ulex gallii} occurs locally. 

Where soil drainage is impeded, marshy grassland dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea} with occasional {\it Erica tetralix, Calluna vulgaris, Juncus conglomeratus} and {\it Empetrum nigrum} occurs. The ericaceous species become more abundant in places forming areas of wet heath. {\it Sphagnum compactum, S. papillosum, Eriophorum angustifolium, Carex echinata, Potentilla erecta, Narthecium ossifragum, Drosera rotundifolia} and {\it Vaccinium oxycoccos} occur locally.

To the east of Common Side are two areas of woodland with a canopy of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pendula}, an understorey of {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Corylus avellana, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Rosa} sp. and a sparse groundflora of {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Holcus mollis}. 

There are a couple of small areas of semi-improved neutral grassland at the northern end of the common of {\it Lolium perenne, Dactylis glomerata, Plantago lanceolata, Trifolium repens} and {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. with scattered trees of {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Betula pendula} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} over one part. 

Fringing the southern boundary adjacent to Redmoor Brook is a strip of tall ruderal vegetation comprising {\it Urtica dioica, Chamerion angustifolium, Cirsium arvense} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}. There is a small area of similar vegetation east of Common Side.

MANAGE:
The common appears largely unmanaged with large areas invaded by bracken and scrub. The condition of the heather is also poor mostly in the degenerate phase with little regeneration. The common is subject to a Countryside Stewardship agreement and should improve under the scheme. There does appear to have been some control of bracken since previous surveys although there has also been further encroachment in places. The two small areas of semi-improved neutral grassland at the northern end of the common are maintained with regular mowing and there has been some tree planting on one part.


FAUNA:
Rabbit, willow/marsh tit, chiffchaff and a peacock butterfly were recorded during the SWT Phase 1 survey.

VEG:
Kingswood common comprises an undulating area of ground. Due to time constraints and as the common was to be surveyed by SWT it was not visited for the purposes of this survey. The following description is based on the SWT Phase 1 survey.

The majority of the vegetation consists of semi-natural broadleaved woodland dominated by {\it Quercus robur} with some {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} in the understorey. The south-western part of the common has a grassy underlayer with {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} locally with bare ground, particularly to the west. Where the canopy is more open {\it Pteridium aquilinum} increases in abundance. A large area of {\it Reynoutria japonica} was noted near the houses on the western boundary.

The north-eastern part of the site is again dominated by {\it Quercus robur} semi-natural broadleaved woodland. {\it Betula pendula} is locally dominant. The scattered groundflora includes {\it Arum maculatum, Ranunculus ficaria} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. {\it Rhododendron} sp. is present at two localities. Part of the eastern boundary consists of a line of mature {\it Ilex aquifolium}.

A small area of acidic grassland was noted adjacent to the car park consisting of {\it Agrostis} sp., {\it Poa annua, Ranunculus repens, Rumex acetosella} with some {\it Veronica filiformis}.

The following additional species were recorded as frequent or abundant on the common: {\it Achillea millefolium, Agrostis capillaris, A. stolonifera, Bellis perennis, Betula pubescens, Cerastium fontanum, Chamerion angustifolium, Dactylis glomerata, Glechoma hederacea, Lolium perenne, Rumex obtusifolius, Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Trifolium repens, Urtica dioica} and the bryophyte {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}.

MANAGE:
The common is regulated under a scheme of management made by former Seisdon RDC under the Commons Act 1899. The common is suffering from erosion due to the high visitor pressure, particularly by mountain bikes attracted by the undulating terrain. Small areas have been fenced off to allow the flora to regenerate but with little success as yet. The area of {\it Reynoutria japonica} in the west of the common had been cut back.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the SWT Phase 1 survey. Badger, fox, stoat, weasel, rabbit, hedgehog, noctule and pipistrelle bats were present on the common in 1982 (SWT records). Water shrew had also been noted from the common and hare had bred in the past. Small tortoiseshell, small copper and meadow brown butterflies, common frog, magpie, yellowhammer and sticklebacks were recorded in and around the pond. 

Yellowhammer, whitethroat, lesser whitethroat, linnet, redpoll, skylark, willow tit, meadow brown, large skipper, speckled wood, green veined white and small heath were recorded during a site visit by J.P. Martin on 06.07.87. Green hairstreaks had been recorded earlier in the year. 

The following lepidoptera were recorded from the common in 1992: the butterflies large skipper, large white, meadow brown, orange tip, red admiral, small copper, small heath, small tortoiseshell and speckled wood and the moths brimstone, brown line bright eye, burnished brass, common emerald, dark arches, flame, heart and dart, mottled beauty, riband wave, shark, silver ground carpet, willow beauty, yellow shell and {\it Eurrhypara coronata}.  

Robin, green woodpecker, wood pigeon, coal tit, great tit, kestrel and wren were recorded in 1993.

VEG:
Penn common is situated on a gentle south-facing slope. A stream crosses the western half of the common. The majority of the common is managed as a golf course and supports amenity grassland. The perimeter of the common supports areas of broadleaved woodland, scrub, areas of neutral, acid and marshy grassland and heathland. A pond has been constructed in the north-west of the common east of the road. The common is of most note for its marshy communities. The common was surveyed by the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust 21.05.95 and the following description is based on this and previous data.

In 1986 Dr. I. Trueman described much of the common as consisting of grass heath with abundant {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca ovina}, locally abundant {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and frequent {\it Nardus stricta, Festuca filiformis, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Calluna vulgaris}. In 1995, much of the common supported grassland dominated by {\it Lolium perenne} with abundant {\it Trifolium repens} and frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris, A. stolonifera, Alopecurus pratensis, Bellis perennis, Cynosurus cristatus, Dactylis glomerata, Deschampsia flexuosa, Festuca rubra, Holcus lantus, Poa annua, Ranunculus repens, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Trifolium pratense}. Occasional species include {\it Achillea millefolium, Alchemilla filicaulis} ssp. {\it vestita, Briza media, Carex panicea, C. flacca, C. nigra, C. hirta, Galium saxatile, Hypericum maculatum, Lathyrus pratensis, Luzula campestris, Nardus stricta, Potentilla erecta, Prunella vulgaris, Rumex acetosa} and {\it R. acetosella}. {\it Ballota nigra} was also recorded. {\it Aegopodium podagraria, Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} are locally frequent. {\it Carex viridula} ssp. {\it oedocarpa, C. hostiana} and the hybrid between these two species, {\it C. ovalis, Serratula tinctoria} (a rare species in the county), {\it Achillea ptarmica} and {\it Agrostis canina} were recorded from the grassland area in 1986 now with a tall ruderal component. {\it Danthonia decumbens} and the introduced {\it Hieracium brunneocroceum} were recorded from the grassland in 1987 by J.P. Martin. 

The marshy grassland areas are dominated mainly by {\it Juncus} spp., particularly {\it Juncus effusus}. Abundant {\it Cardamine flexuosa} and frequent {\it Briza media, Cardamine pratensis, Epilobium hirsutum, Glyceria fluitans, Juncus inflexus} and {\it Lychnis flos-cuculi} occur along the stream running across the western half of the common. Small marshy areas are located along the stream within the woodland with frequent {\it Valeriana dioica, Menyanthes trifoliata}, orchid species and an abundance of {\it Carex} spp. J.P. Martin (1987) also recorded {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Viola palustris} and {\it Triglochin palustris}. One particularly rich area of marsh recorded by Dr. I. Trueman at SK896944 (now mapped as dense scrub) included the species {\it Carex paniculata, Menyanthes trifoliata, Eleocharis quinqueflora} (then with only one other recent record in Staffs), {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Anagallis tenella, Triglochin palustris, Ajuga reptans, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Caltha palustris} and the bryophytes {\it Acrocladium cuspidatum} and {\it Cratoneuron commutatum}. He also mentions a record for {\it Potentilla palustris} and an old record for {\it Scutellaria minor}. The stream section in the south-east corner of the site (within the woodland) is dominated by {\it Allium ursinum} with some {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum}. The constructed pond at the north-eastern end of the common is dominated by {\it Typha latifolia}. In 1987 it was choked with {\it Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum} and {\it Sparganium erectum} and was being dug out again (J.P. Martin).

There are two small areas of remnant heath/acid grassland mosaic with frequent {\it Ulex gallii, Luzula campestris} and {\it Nardus stricta} and occasional {\it Aira praecox, Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Potentilla erecta}. Two areas of dry heath were recorded west of Sedgley Road in 1986 by Dr. I. Trueman. One adjacent to the road had much {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Agrostis canina, Pedicularis sylvatica} and {\it Danthonia decumbens} and has apparently been lost and the other with {\it Thymus polytrichus, Campanula rotundifolia, Potentilla anglica} and {\it Teucrium scorodonia} now replaced by a stand of dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. 

{\it Acer pseudoplatanus} is abundant in the wooded areas with occasional {\it Alnus glutinosa, Betula pendula, Fraxinus excelsior, Pinus sylvestris, Quercus robur} and {\it Salix fragilis}. Understorey species recorded include frequent {\it Sambucus nigra, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex gallii} with locally frequent {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna, Cytisus scoparius, Ilex aquifolium, Malus sylvestris, Rosa arvensis, R. canina} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia} (planted). The groundflora comprises frequent {\it Festuca rubra, Holcus lanatus, Poa annua, Stellaria media} and {\it Urtica dioica}, locally frequent {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum, Ranunculus ficaria} and {\it Lathraea squamaria} and {\it Allium ursinum, Anthriscus sylvestris, Arctium minus} agg., {\it Arum maculatum, Dryopteris felix-mas} agg., {\it Galium aparine, Geranium robertianum, Hedera helix, Heracleum sphondylium, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Lamium album, L. purpureum, Lapsana communis, Mercurialis perennis, Rumex obtusifolius, Solanum dulcamara, Tanacetum parthenium} and {\it Viola riviniana}. 

Fungi recorded from the common include {\it Entoloma porphyrophaeum, Marasmius oreades, Paneolus rickenii, P. toeniscii} and {\it Lycoperdon giganteum}.

MANAGE:
Evidently the common has declined in quality in the last ten years, the majority perhaps as a result of the frequent mowing of the golf course and possibly through the use of artificial fertilisers. Staffordshire Wildlife Trust recommended that the mowing of rough areas on the course should be confined to one cut in late summer to control bracken and allow plants to set seed. This would also help reduce further degradation of areas of less affected grassland but would also probably encourage ranker species. According to J.P.Martin in 1987 the common was still being grazed by cattle for at least part of the year and there was apparently some dispute between the rightholder and the golf club. In 1982 there were some goats grazing the area around the pond. Some grazing would be beneficial for the areas of most biological interest. Valuable areas of remnant heathland have been lost to grassland and bracken, a valuable area of marsh to scrub and an area of interesting damp grassland has become invaded by tall ruderal species probably as a result of a lack of management. However, the common still supports a number of important species and is still classed as a Grade 1 Site of Biological Importance. The important marsh areas should be carefully monitored and maintained.


VEG:
Pipe marsh common is subdivided into four parts by the A5109, A461, a minor road and a track. It is situated on level ground. Historically a heathland site it is now much encroached by {\it Ulex europaeus, U. gallii, Rubus fruticosus, Betula pendula, Quercus robur} and locally {\it Salix cinerea} and {\it Populus tremula} scrub, young woodland in places and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, locally with tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Cirsium arvense, Digitalis purpurea, Urtica dioica} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}. 

The northern section is least encroached supporting an area of unimproved acid grassland of tussocky {\it Nardus stricta, Deschampsia flexuosa, Potentilla erecta, Agrostis} spp. and {\it Juncus effusus} and a small area of wet heath/acid grassland mosaic with {\it Erica tetralix} and {\it Calluna vulgaris} and scattered {\it Ulex europaeus}. {\it Montia fontana} and {\it Galium palustre} were recorded in this area in 1986. {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris} and {\it Ranunculus flammula} were recorded here in 1991 (Staffordshire Wildlife Trust records) and {\it Empetrum nigrum} was recorded in 1979.

South of the A5109 the former heathland area is now largely encroached by {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub. At the eastern end is an area of dense, young {\it Quercus robur} woodland with limited understorey and ground flora. 

East of the A461 is an area of {\it Betula pendula/Quercus robur} woodland with occasional {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, an understorey of {\it Ulex europaeus, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra} and a groundflora of {\it Holcus mollis, Dryopteris felix-mas, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. The pond is now silted up with only some {\it Glyceria fluitans}. The woodland is encroaching eastwards where scattered {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} occur amongst the {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. There is a turning area at the easternmost end of the common. {\it Reynoutria japonica} was recorded on both sections west of the A461.

MANAGE:
The common has apparently been unmanaged for some time. The Staffordshire Wildlife Trust records note that the area of heathland to the south of the A5109 was in urgent need of management in 1991 and now appears overtaken with scrub. The wetter area of heathland to the north of the A5109 has probably survived due to being less favourable to scrub and bracken encroachment but will eventually succumb if there is no intervention. The pond on the section east of the A461 could be dug out and the surrounding woodland opened to create a valuable additional habitat. The area is probably little used for recreation due to having to cross busy main roads.


FAUNA:
A small tortoiseshell butterfly was recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Formerly a heathland site, Wall Butts common has been destroyed by tipping of spoil and encroachment of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scrub. The spoil area now supports a tall ruderal vegetation with frequent to abundant {\it Urtica dioica} and occasional {\it Bryonia dioica, Armoracia rusticana, Artemisia vulgaris, Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Reseda lutea}. {\it Conium maculatum} is locally dominant and {\it Elytrigia repens} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} locally frequent. Scattered scrub occurs through this area comprising {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Ulex europaeus, Cytisus scoparius, Crataegus monogyna, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Betula pendula}. {\it Rubus idaeus} is locally abundant. At the eastern end of the common is an area of scattered scrub and tall ruderal vegetation in a depression supporting in addition {\it Betula pendula, Salix fragilis, Quercus robur, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Reynoutria japonica}. Elsewhere {\it Pteridium aquilinum} predominates with or without scattered scrub of predominantly {\it Ulex europaeus} in the west and {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pendula} in the east and areas of continuous scrub of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus}. The area in the east mapped as semi-improved grassland in 1992 was not checked during the site visit. The only evidence of the former heathland is a couple of patches of {\it Calluna vulgaris} along the roadside. There is a large dump of garden refuse to the north-west.

MANAGE:
Evidently the common has not been managed for some time. The local authority is planning to plant the spoil area with trees.


FAUNA:
Grey squirrel, rabbit, house sparrow and wood pigeon were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Oaken Lawn is a level area of common land crossed by a small stream. There are three areas of semi-natural broadleaved woodland on the common. At the eastern end the canopy comprises {\it Quercus robur} with locally dominant {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, a sparse understorey of {\it Ilex aquifolium, Sambucus nigra, Fraxinus excelsior, Crataegus monogyna, Betula pendula} and locally {\it Alnus glutinosa} and a groundflora of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Holcus mollis, Dryopteris dilatata, D. felix-mas, Chamerion angustifolium, Holcus mollis, Lysimachia vulgaris, Arum maculatum} and {\it Hedera helix}. {\it Polygonatum} sp. was recorded near the road, probably a garden escape. The central section is an area of {\it Alnus glutinosa, Quercus robur} woodland with an understorey of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Corylus avellana, Prunus spinosa, Ulex europaeus, Quercus robur} and a groundflora of {\it Ranunculus repens, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Dryopteris dilatata, Pteridium aquilinum, Holcus mollis, Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Urtica dioica}. At the western end the woodland is similar to that at the eastern end with a denser understorey and groundflora. {\it Populus tremula} is locally dominant here, {\it Salix cinerea} is frequent along the drain near the houses and {\it S. alba} occurs locally.

The semi-improved neutral grassland consists of abundant {\it Agrostis stolonifera} with frequent {\it Lolium perenne, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Trifolium repens}. Associated species include {\it Cerastium fontanum, Odontites vernus, Rumex acetosa, Leontodon autumnalis, Senecio aquaticus, Stellaria graminea, S. media, Urtica dioica, Cirsium arvense} and locally {\it Juncus effusus, J. articulatus} and {\it Ranunculus flammula}. {\it Quercus robur, Sambucus nigra, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ilex aquifolium} scrub with some {\it Pteridium aquilinum} is encroaching from the hedgerows into the grassland. West of Oaken Lawn Riding School the grassland is ranker with abundant {\it Agrostis stolonifera}, frequent {\it Holcus lanatus, Festuca rubra} and occasional {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Heracleum sphondylium, Potentilla anserina, Polygonum persicaria} and {\it Centaurea nigra}. Scattered scrub of {\it Ulex europaeus, Quercus robur} and {\it Salix} sp. occurs through this area. There is also a small area of similar semi-improved neutral grassland in front of the houses at the western end of the common with occasional {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Lotus pedunculatus} and {\it Galeopsis tetrahit}. {\it Succisa pratensis} was also recorded here. Bordering this area is a small area of tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Urtica dioica, Aegopodium podagraria} and {\it Calystegia sepium}. There is also a mature {\it Populus nigra?}. Other areas of tall ruderal vegetation occur with {\it Urtica dioica, Chamerion angustifolium, Epilobium hirsutum, Cirsium arvense} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium}. {\it Potentilla erecta} and {\it Galium palustre} were recorded from the picnic area at the eastern end of the common.

At the centre of the common, bordering the stream is a small area of marshy grassland comprising frequent {\it Phalaris arundinacea} and occasional {\it Angelica sylvestris, Epilobium hirsutum, Juncus effusus} and {\it Galeopsis tetrahit}. {\it Iris pseudacorus} occurred locally and {\it Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Urtica dioica} were locally dominant. {\it Aegopodium podagraria} and {\it Armoracia rusticana} were also recorded and scattered scrub of {\it Quercus robur, Salix sp., Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Corylus avellana}.

MANAGE:
The picnic area at the eastern end of the common and the grassland in front of the houses at the western end are mown and there is possibly some grazing on the other grassland parts of the common. Scrub encroachment and the rankness of the grassland in places suggests grazing is fairly limited. Recreational use of the woodland at the eastern end of the common is damaging the groundflora. The common is regulated under a scheme of management made by former Seisdon RDC under Commons Act 1899.


VEG:
The common at Pye Green consists of a small area of semi-improved neutral grassland of frequent {\it Lolium perenne, Agrostis capillaris} and occasional {\it Holcus lanatus, Festuca rubra, Trifolium repens, Plantago lanceolata, Hypochaeris radicata, Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Leontodon autumnalis, Poa annua, Achillea millefolium} and {\it Rumex acetosa}. {\it Agrostis stolonifera, Plantago lanceolata, Hypochaeris radicata} and {\it Hordeum murinum} were locally frequent and {\it Rumex crispus} and {\it R. obtusifolius} locally occasional. The scattered trees at the north-western end consist of {\it Betula pendula, Quercus robur, Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}.

MANAGE:
The area is regularly mown and some of the trees have probably been planted.


FAUNA:
Magpie, skylark, swallow, starling and the butterflies red admiral, small tortoiseshell, peacock, small copper and wall brown were recorded during the site visit. A woodpecker was heard.

VEG:
Hednesford hills occupies two low hills separated by a dry valley largely occupied by the NCB Training centre. The ground slopes away steeply to the north-east and south-west. The latter slope is dissected by some dry valleys. There are a couple of small quarries in the south. It is a remnant of the now fragmented Cannock Chase. 

A large proportion of the vegetation comprises a dry heath/acid grassland mosaic also with more extensive areas of both dry dwarf shrub heath and acid grassland. {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} is the dominant grass with {\it Nardus stricta} occurring locally and occasional {\it Juncus squarrosus}. {\it Molinia caerulea} occurs in the valley bottoms along the south-western edge with some {\it Juncus effusus} and there are a couple of areas of marshy grassland dominated by {\it Juncus effusus}. 

Heathland accounts for approximately 30-50% of the dry heath/acid grassland mosaic comprising {\it Calluna vulgaris, Empetrum nigrum, Vaccinium myrtillus, V. vitis-idaea} and occasional {\it Erica tetralix}. {\it Calluna vulgaris} generally accounts for half the ericaceous content. The most complete areas of heathland occur along the north-eastern edge on the slopes below the Raceway. The heathland is mostly in the mature to degenerate stage. {\it Pteridium aquilinum} is invading the heathland particularly along the north-western edge. Scattered scrub occurs in places comprising {\it Pinus sylvestris, Betula pendula, Crataegus monogyna, Ulex europaeus, Quercus} spp. and locally {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and small areas of continuous scrub mostly of {\it Ulex europaeus}. 

Some semi-improved acid grassland (locally semi-improved neutral) occurs to the south and west with frequent {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} amongst the {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} sward and occasional {\it Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}. Locally amongst the semi-improved grassland, around the periphery of the common, recolonising a large recently burnt area to the east and a few other small burn areas there is a tall ruderal element comprising {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Urtica dioica}.

There are a large number of small mixed, broadleaved and coniferous plantations on the common consisting of {\it Sorbus aucuparia, S. aria, Betula pendula, Quercus} spp., {\it Castanea sativa, Fagus sylvatica, Pinus sylvestris} and {\it Larix decidua}. A number of these areas retain a dry heathland/acid grassland groundflora with {\it Pteridium aquilinum} in places.

MANAGE:
Hednesford hills common is subject to management sceme made by Cannock Chase DC known as "(Hednesford Hills) Commons Scheme" 1984. This area of heathland is ungrazed and consequently the heather is largely in the mature to degenerate stage with little regeneration. D. Chittock in 1986 remarked that the {\it Calluna} appeared to be being replaced by {\it Empetrum nigrum, Vaccinium} spp. and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} in particular the {\it D. flexuosa} which had formed tussocks and a dense layer of litter preventing any new growth of {\it Calluna}. {\it Empetrum nigrum} and {\it Vaccinium} spp. form equal parts with the {\it Calluna}. There is a large recently burnt area to the east and a few other small burn areas formerly of dry heath/acid grassland mosaic on the common. It is unclear whether these are a result of active management or accidental fires. In these areas there is currently little regeneration of {\it Calluna vulgaris}, some {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and invasion with tall ruderal species. Some spraying of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} was noted on the common. Various measures could be taken to encourage the regeneration and spread of heathland on the common (eg. rotovating or controlled burning to break up the litter layer) but retaining some of the tussocky {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} as a habitat for invertebrates. Rotational cutting or burning of areas of mature to degenerate heather would also be beneficial encouraging regeneration.

Scrub encroachment is not too serious a threat at present but will be a continual if not increasing problem due to the number of plantations on the common providing a large seed source. It would be worth considering thinning or felling some of the plantations retaining a dry heath/acid grassland flora. There is some path erosion on the slopes around the Raceway and the grassland nearby which is used for parking.


VEG:
Offley Marsh mostly comprises an area of semi-natural broadleaved woodland with a canopy of {\it Betula pendula, Quercus robur} and locally {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. Understorey species include {\it Quercus robur, Ilex aquifolium, Fraxinus excelsior, Salix} spp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and the groundflora {\it Molinia caerulea, Deschampsia flexuosa, Hedera helix} and {\it Dryopteris dilatata}. There is a small clearing with {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Galium palustre} and {\it Ulex europaeus}. There were still a few degenerate {\it Calluna vulgaris} bushes in 1986 and {\it U. gallii} was also recorded (D. Chittock). To the north of the pond which adjoins the common to the south are waterlogged areas dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} with {\it Molinia caerulea, Sphagnum} spp. and cushions of {\it Polytrichum commune} (D. Chittock, 1986 and management plan). This area was not revisited. 

To the south of the woodland is a small area of semi-improved neutral grassland of {\it Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne} and {\it Ranunculus repens} adjoining an area of tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Urtica dioica}, some {\it Typha latifolia} and a few scattered trees of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Quercus robur}. From here a small track leads eastwards to the minor road bordered by species-poor hedgerows of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Corylus avellana} with a narrow fringe of vegetation comprising {\it Cirsium arvense, Chamerion angustifolium, Epilobium hirsutum, Holcus lanatus, Lathyrus pratensis} and {\it Agrostis stolonifera}.

MANAGE:
The area is apparently unmanaged at present. Up until about 50 years ago the common (then covering a larger area) was still being grazed by cattle. Management suggestions made in the management plan include the maintenance of the open grassy areas through scrub removal and if possible allowing grazing by tethered animals or alternatively occasional cutting, small scale lifting of grass turves in the vicinity of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} bushes to enable its spread and occasional topping of the bushes to encourage new growth and thinning parts of the woodland where there are still heathy remanants in the groundflora.


FAUNA:
Grey squirrel and great tit were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Little Heath Green lies adjacent to Coal Brook. It supports semi-natural broadleaved woodland. The canopy is dominated either by {\it Quercus robur} with occasional {\it Betula pendula} or {\it Alnus glutinosa}. Understorey species include {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it R. idaeus, Prunus padus, Ilex aquifolium, Sorbus aucuparia, Corylus avellana, Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa}. The groundflora comprises {\it Dryopteris dilatata, D. felix-mas, Urtica dioica, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Agrostis stolonifera, Pteridium aquilinum, Holcus mollis, Ceratocapnos claviculata, Stellaria holostea, Geum urbanum, Chamerion angustifolium, Galeopsis tetrahit, Silene dioica, Alliaria petiolata, Moehringia trinervia} and {\it Hedera helix}. {\it Pteridium aquilinum} is predominant beneath {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Rubus} spp. and {\it Urtica dioica} beneath {\it Alnus glutinosa}. {\it Phragmites australis, Urtica dioica} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. were frequent near the stream at the southern end.

MANAGE:
The common is apparently unmanaged. A fairly healthy woodland with natural regeneration.


FAUNA:
Doley common is on English Nature's Invertebrate Site register for supporting small pearl-bordered fritillary and the local small grass-veneer micromoth, the latter usually associated with fens and salt marshes and only known from one other Staffordshire locality (entry dated 1983). The common is also locally notable for its wintering and breeding birds. The following fauna were recorded in the early 1980's (English Nature records): fox, weasel, short-tailed field vole, water vole, long-tailed field mouse, the birds mallard, sparrowhawk, kestrel, partridge, pheasant, moorhen, lapwing, snipe, curlew, redshank, heron, wood pigeon, barn owl, short-eared owl, swift, skylark, swallow, carrion crow, rook, jackdaw, magpie, mistle thrush, grasshopper warbler, sedge warbler, goldfinch, linnet, yellowhammer, reed bunting and a vagrant sacred ibis. Black headed gull have also been known to breed on the common. Butterflies recorded were small pearl-bordered fritillary and large skipper and various species of dragonfly (not listed).

VEG:
Doley common is a low lying area in the flood-plain of the Doley brook overlying a moderately nutrient-poor clayey peat. Doley common was subject to a National Vegetation Classification survey on 17.08.93 and was not resurveyed for this project. 

The majority of the vegetation equated to an MG9 {\it Holcus lanatus-Deschampsia cespitosa} coarse grassland with associated species {\it Cirsium palustre, Lotus pedunculatus, Equisetum palustre, Galium palustre, Viola palustris, Cirsium arvense, Festuca rubra, Juncus effusus, Rumex acetosa, Agrostis canina, Galeopsis tetrahit, Lycopus europaeus, Potentilla erecta, P. anserina, Stellaria graminea, Cirsium dissectum} and less frequently {\it Agrostis stolonifera, Angelica sylvestris, Cardamine pratensis, Carex nigra, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Juncus acutiflorus, Molinia caerulea, Scutellaria galericulata, Succisa pratensis} and the bryophytes {\it Calliergon cuspidatum} and {\it Brachythecium rivulare}. Locally, near the south-eastern corner of the common within this community, are small areas of S28a {\it Phalaris arundinacea} swamp, {\it P. arundinacea} sub-community. {\it Juncus effusus} is locally abundant along the south-western edge in the south-eastern half of the common equating to M23b {\it Juncus effusus/acutiflorus-Galium palustre} rush pasture, {\it Juncus effusus} sub-community (mapped as marshy grassland).

The community of greatest interest is an area of M24b {\it Molinia caerulea-Cirsium dissectum} fen meadow typical sub-community in the north-western half of the common (mapped as marshy grassland) with frequent {\it Agrostis canina} and {\it Holcus lanatus} and associated species {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Galium palustre, Juncus effusus, Potentilla erecta, Rumex acetosa, Carex nigra, Cirsium palustre, Lycopus europaeus, Angelica sylvestris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Carex panicea, Epilobium palustre, Festuca rubra, Ranunculus flammula, Festuca ovina, Luzula multiflora} and the bryophyte {\it Brachythecium rivulare}. A number of fen species also occur including {\it Viola palustris, Lotus pedunculatus, Equisetum palustre, Potentilla palustris, Scutellaria galericulata} and {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris}. There are local patches of {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} and {\it Carex panicea} and areas codominated by tall herbs such as {\it Angelica sylvestris}. Other species recorded in this community include {\it Calluna vulgaris, Carex demissa, Dryopteris carthusiana, Achillea ptarmica, Sphagnum palustre} and {\it Triglochin palustris}. Fringing this area to the north-west and south-west is M27c {\it Filipendula ulmaria-Angelica sylvestris} mire, {\it Juncus effusus-Holcus lanatus} sub-community. 

There are also uncomfirmed past records from the common for {\it Salix repens, Menyanthes trifoliata, Eriophorum vaginatum} and {\it Erica tetralix} which were not recorded during the 1993 survey.

MANAGE:
The common was still being grazed by cattle in 1985 but had not had any significant management for a number of years in 1993 generally appearing very rank. Grazing stock would be unlikely to have any effect on the rank coarse grass unless forced to graze it by high stocking levels which would probably lead to overgrazing of the less coarse and more important habitats. It was recommended that the coarse grass was cut with subsequent cutting or grazing to maintain a shorter sward (with any grazing carefully regulated to maintain the M24 area). A small part of the common has been fenced off at the southern end which is excluded from the SSSI.


VEG:
The common land at Huddlesford comprises a series of roadside verges. The longest continuous stretch running east-west along Park Lane is a Staffordshire Site of Biological Interest. It was surveyed in 1995 by the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust. The vegetation is of semi-natural broadleaved woodland of {\it Quercus robur} with frequent {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Betula pendula}. The understorey comprises {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Corylus avellana, Clematis vitalba, Acer campestre, Ilex aquifolium, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia} and a small amount of {\it Reynoutria japonica}. The groundflora varies from rankish grassy verges supporting {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Dactylis glomerata, Galium aparine, Chelidonium majus, Heracleum sphondylium, Rumex obtusifolius, Vicia sepium, Conopodium majus, Plantago lanceolata} and {\it Stellaria hollostea} lining the road to a woodland flora of {\it Holcus mollis, Poa trivialis, Lamium album, Alliaria petiolata, Anthriscus sylvestris, Hedera helix, Ranunculus ficaria} and {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} interspersed with areas dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. {\it Pteridium aquilinum} occurs on the northern side of the road. 

Around the junction of Broad and Park Lanes are areas of regularly mown semi-improved species-poor neutral grassland with some planted {\it Prunus} sp., an area which has been fenced off as part of a garden and an area of bare ground which is used for parking on. 

North from here along Broad Lane is an area of continuous scrub comprising {\it Quercus robur, Crataegus monogyna, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Humulus lupulus}. 

Further north on the northern side an area of scrubby woodland of {\it Quercus robur, Prunus spinosa, Ulex europaeus, Sambucus nigra, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Salix} spp. There is a small area of rank {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} dominated grassland with some {\it Juncus conglomeratus, Teucrium scorodonia} and scattered scrub of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and a strip alongside the footpath of {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Urtica dioica}. 

The northernmost section comprises rank grass and tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Urtica dioica, Cirsium arvense, Heracleum sphondylium, Conium maculatum, Silene alba, Anthriscus sylvestris, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Galium aparine} with scattered scrub of {\it Quercus robur, Sambucus nigra, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Prunus spinosa}. 

The fragment south of the railway line supports tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Urtica dioica} with {\it Phalaris arundinacea} and scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. This area is crossed by a stream and at the southernmost end is an area of {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Salix} spp.

MANAGE:
The common is largely unmanaged except for cutting back of road verges and locallised mowing around properties. Part of the common has been fenced off and incorporated into a garden and there has been some planting of trees on the common. Part is regularly used for parking on. Without intervention the unmanaged open areas will become scrubbed over in succession to woodland.


VEG:
Whittington Hurst common is an old gravel pit with an uneven floor. The former pit now supports semi-natural broadleaved woodland dominated by {\it Quercus robur} with a sparse understorey of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Lonicera periclymenum, Salix cinerea, Ulex europaeus, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ilex aquifolium} and a groundflora of {\it Holcus mollis, Bryonia dioica, Digitalis purpurea} and {\it Teucrium scorodonia}. The common was only surveyed from the roadside. Additional species recorded in 1979 (Staffordshire Wildlife Trust (SWT) records) include {\it Betula} sp., {\it Fagus sylvatica, Pinus sylvestris, Deschampsia cespitosa, D. flexuosa, Dryopteris dilatata, D. affinis, Galium palustre, G. uliginosum, Glyceria fluitans, Juncus effusus, Lysimmachia vulgaris, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Solanum dulcamara}. {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Ranunculus flammula} were recorded during the 1991 SWT site visit.

The common also comprises a number of stretches of road verge supporting scrub of {\it Ilex aquifolium, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Quercus robur, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with {\it Pteridium aquilinum} in places. The verges also support areas of semi-improved neutral grassland with frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris, Plantago lanceolata, Leontodon autumnalis, Lolium perenne} and occasional {\it Trifolium repens} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}.

MANAGE:
Only some verge management is carried out on the common and scrub clearance under overhead cables.


FAUNA:
Moorhen was recorded during the site visit. The nationally scarce {\it Pherbellia brunnipes, P. dorsata, Tetanocera punctifrons} and {\it Phaonia atriceps} (Diptera) were recorded from the pond.

VEG:
The common consists of two separate parts forming additional parts of Barlaston common (CL21) gently sloping south-westwards. The vegetation of the eastern portion consists of dense scrub of {\it Ulex europaeus, Betula pendula, Quercus robur} and {\it Fagus sylvatica} and an area of rank semi-improved neutral grassland of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Festuca rubra, Deschampsia flexuosa, Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered scrub of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus}. 

The western portion comprises semi-natural broadleaved woodland of {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Quercus robur} with some {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} in the groundflora and an area of continuous scrub of {\it Salix capraea, Crataegus monogyna, Quercus robur, Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Betula pendula} at the western end. In between is a pond fringed by {\it Juncus effusus, J. articulatus, Typha latifolia, Mentha aquatica, Equisetum} sp. and {\it Galium palustre}. Aquatic species inlude {\it Potomogeton} sp. and {\it Elodea canadensis}. {\it Eleocharis palustris, Myosotis scorpioides} and {\it Crassula} sp. were recorded in 1992 by S. Sheppard. Surrounding the pond is a small area of semi-improved neutral grassland of {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius, Centaurea nigra, Agrostis capillaris, Holcus} spp., {\it Cirsium arvense, Ranunculus repens, R. acris, Plantago lanceolata, Phleum pratense, Festuca rubra, Chamerion angustifolium, Vicia cracca, Artemisia vulgaris, Urtica dioica, Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Cirsium palustre}. There is also some {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. scrub amongst the grassland.

MANAGE:
There is little current mangement on the common. The eastern portion is rank and rapidly becoming invaded with scrub. There has been some management in the area around the pond on the western portion; the grassland appears to be cut but probably infrequently, logs have been placed along the roadside to prevent vehicular access and there possibly has been some clearance of vegetation in the pond since 1992. Some dumping of garden waste was noted outside the properties adjoining this portion.


VEG:
The Holmes is situated on the Crane Brook on the outskirts of Shenstone. Much of the adjoining land to the south has been built on. It is continuous with additional open areas. The common is subdivided by the railway line and the Footherley Brook.

The majority of the common supports a semi-improved neutral grassland with frequent {\it Festuca rubra, Agrostis capillaris} and occasional {\it Dactylis glomerata, Deschampsia cespitosa, Rumex acetosa, Centaurea nigra, Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Stellaria graminea, Poa pratensis, Holcus mollis, Rumex obtusifolius, Cirsium arvense, Elytrigia repens, Leontodon autumnalis, Ranunculus repens, Achillea millefolium} and {\it Plantago lanceolata}. {\it Succisa pratensis} was rare in the grassland. Locally the grassland is ranker with frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} or scrub of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Along the banks of Crane Brook are some {\it Salix alba} and {\it Alnus glutinosa} with some {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Impatiens glandulifera}. The western boundary of the section west of the railway line is a hedgerow of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Quercus robur, Betula pendula, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Corylus avellana}. 

South of the Footherley Brook is a small area of developing woodland of {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Salix} sp. with an understorey of {\it Corylus avellana, Ulmus glabra, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and a sparse groundflora of {\it Hedera helix}. The stream here is fringed with {\it Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Apium nodiflorum}.

MANAGE:
At the access near the railway bridge at the southern end of the common is a sign announcing "The Little Holmes Natural area" being maintained for the benefit of the village. Generally the grassland is fairly rank, locally with {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scrub encroachment. Some parts are possibly unmanaged or with the occasional cut. There is no evidence of any grazing. Scrub encroachment will undoubtably increase if left unmanaged. The grassland areas would benefit from being grazed although they are not particularly of botanical interest. The ranker areas may be an important habitat for fauna and a little scattered scrub adds diversity to the habitat.


VEG:
Cloud common is situated on a hill in the north of the county occupying part of the hill top and east-facing slopes. The common was described in 1979 as an area of mixed moor with small trees and birch scrub. The common was only viewed from the roadside and the footpath to The Cloud north of Cloud side for this project (the footpath to the south-western corner via Bridestones was closed due to disease risk). The habitat boundaries on the map are therefore only approximate. 

The common appears to support a good cover (90-100 percent) of {\it Calluna vulgaris} in good condition and with a little scattered {\it Betula pendula}. The small area of heathland near the roadside was in poorer condition with about 30 percent cover of {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}, the remainder being of {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. 

Around the edges is some semi-natural broadleaved woodland with a canopy of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pendula}, an understorey of {\it Ilex aquifolium, Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and a groundflora with abundant ferns ({\it Dryopteris dilatata}?), {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Deschampsia flexuosa, Molinia caerulea} and {\it Holcus mollis}. 

Adjacent to the road is a small area of tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Urtica dioica} and {\it Digitalis purpurea} with scattered {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Betula pendula}. 

The eastern ear of the common appeared to be being cleared of heath possibly with the aim of reseeding with grassland. A site visit would be required to confirm that this was part of the common. 

{\it Rumex alpinus} recorded from the verge in 1979 was not recorded during the site visit.

MANAGE:
The heathland appears to be in a better condition than in 1979 with a greater cover of heath and not having been significantly encroached with scrub although it was unclear how it is being managed. Part of the common appears to be being cleared of the heathland vegetation.


VEG:
Threapwood quarries is situated on the edge of the Peak District outside the National Park boundary spanning a slight valley and overlying an old quarry site. 

The larger half of the common supports semi-natural broadleaved woodland with frequent {\it Quercus petraea} and occasional {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Sorbus aucuparia, Betula pendula} and {\it Pinus sylvestris}. The understorey comprises {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Ilex aquifolium} and locally {\it Rubus idaeus} and the groundflora {\it Urtica dioica, Hedera helix, Holcus mollis, Lonicera periclymenum, Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Dryopteris dilatata}. Less frequent species include {\it Stellaria holostea, Rumex sanguineus, Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Galium saxatile}. There is quite a lot of deadwood and oak litter. Some {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Leucanthemum vulgare} were recorded on the road verge. 

The northern half of the common supports an area of fenced rank semi-improved grassland comprising {\it Dactylis glomerata, Lolium perenne, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Urtica dioica}. This is bordered to the north by a strip of woodland (probably planted) of {\it Pinus sylvestris, Prunus avium, Quercus petraea, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. This section is wired off from the road.

MANAGE:
The enclosed area of grassland did not appear to have been grazed recently and is possibly only cut at infrequent intervals. The remainder of the woodland is left unmanaged and is possibly of high invertebrate interest due to the presence of deadwood and oak litter. The roadside verges are kept cut back.


FAUNA:
Fallow deer were observed during the site visit and grey squirrel, great tit and speckled wood butterfly were recorded from the woodland on Satnall Hills. Many notable woodland species of moth have been recorded from the SSSI including the angle-striped sallow, argent and sable and alder kitten. The heathland and mires support small pearl-bordered fritillary and the anomalous and grass wave moths. Of the numerous beetles {\it Pediacus dermestoides} and {\it Biplophorus minutus} are two of the rarer old timber specialists and {\it Gnypeta velata} an uncommon wetland species with southern affinities. Bog bush cricket is also present (the only occurence in the county). Cannock Chase supports a major breeding concentration of fallow deer. The whole Chase area including the SSSI supports a nationally significant population of nightjar. Five species of bat, adder and common lizard also occur on the common. The following amphibians were recorded from the SSSI in 1990: warty newt, palmate newt, common toad, common frog, viviparous lizard, grass snake and adder. 47 species of bird were recorded from Brocton Coppice (1983?) including sparrow hawk, kestrel, woodcock, cuckoo, tawny owl, nightjar, all three species of woodpecker, willow tit, siskin, linnet, tree pipit, redpoll and brambling. Whinchat breed amongst the bracken. A list of 43 species of moth have been recorded from Cannock Chase (1987-1988) although the grid reference quoted lies at some distance from the Chase.

VEG:
Unfortunately only a brief visit was possible to the common and much of the following description is based on the English Nature Phase 1 survey (J.P. Martin, June/July 1989) and the Phase 1 survey maps produced for the County Council by LUC in 1994. 

Cannock Chase is largely situated on the east-facing valleyside of the Sherbrook. The northern end of the common is largely covered with {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and a large area of ancient semi-natural broadleaved woodland (Brocton Coppice). The southern end supports a large amount dry dwarf-shrub heath interspersed with {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

The area of heathland is the most extensive in the midlands. The geographical location and altitude are responsible for a heathland type intermediate in composition between that of northern and upland England (supporting such species as {\it Vaccinium vitis-idaea} and {\it Empetrum nigrum}) and those of southern counties (represented by species such as {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea} and {\it E. tetralix}). The Chase is also the main British station for the restricted hybrid bilberry {\it Vaccinium x intermedium}. {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Nardus stricta, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Juncus squarrosus, Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Molinia caerulea} occur locally. The heathland has been invaded in many places by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} which is particularly abundant over the northern end of the common. Young {\it Betula pendula}, locally with {\it Pinus sylvestris}, is also invading open ground in many parts with rapid progression to woodland. Locally the vegetation is dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea} with {\it Eriophorum} sp. The extreme southern end of the common supports an area of wet heath with {\it Molinia caerulea, Calluna vulgaris} and occasional {\it Erica cinerea}. Wet heath also occurs in conjunction with the valley mires.

The valley mire/wet heath communities are a very important feature of the common, in places dominated by {\it Sphagnum} spp. with {\it Vaccinium oxycoccus, Eriophorum} spp. and {\it Erica tetralix}. Again these communities are intermediate between southern valley mires such as those of the New Forest and northern ones. The areas of valley mire occur in the Oldacre and Sherbrook valleys. In the Oldacre valley the mire is composed of {\it Sphagnum palustre, S. recurvum, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Carex panicea, Molinia caerulea, Erica tetralix, Aulacomnium palustre, Festuca rubra, Eriophorum angustifolium, Carex echinata, C. paniculata, C. nigra, Deschampsia flexuosa, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Polytrichum commune, Viola palustris, Holcus lanatus, Dryopteris carthusiana, Agrostis canina, A. stolonifera, Juncus acutiflorus} and {\it Carex rostrata} with scattered {\it Alnus glutinosa, Betula} spp. and {\it Salix cinerea}. Uncommon species recorded include {\it Galium uliginosus, Drosera rotundifolia, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, D. maculata, Eleocharis quinqueflora, Vaccinium oxycoccus} and the nationally scarce* {\it Thelypteris palustris}. Locally nutrient enriched springwater gives rise to flushed ground rich in sedges and flowering plants including uncommon species {\it Carex dioica, C. viridula ssp. brachyrhyncha, Pinguicula vulgaris} and {\it Parnassia palustris}. 

The ancient semi-natural broadleaved woodland at Brocton coppice is of {\it Quercus petraea} and {\it Betula pendula}. Much {\it Melampyrum pratense} is present in the groundflora together with {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Deschampsia flexuosa, Holcus mollis, Oxalis acetosella} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. The remainder of the woodland on the Chase is of fairly recent origin and dominated by {\it Betula pendula} often with {\it Sorbus aucuparia} and locally {\it Pinus sylvestris} particularly in the Brocton area. {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Vaccinium myrtillus} or {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} are the main groundflora constituents. {\it Alnus glutinosa} is locally abundant in damper situations particularly in the lower Sherbrook valley with smaller areas in the Oldacre valley and Stafford Brook. {\it Salix cinerea, Viburnum opulus} and {\it Cornus sanguinea} are present in the understorey. Groundflora species recorded include {\it Carex paniculata, C. remota, Deschampsia cespitosa, Viola palustris, Athyrium felix-femina, Molinia caerulea, Urtica dioica, Filipendula ulmaria, Holcus lanatus, Equisetum palustris, Potentilla erecta, Apium nodiflorum, Oxalis acetosella, Ranunculus repens, Sphagnum} spp. and {\it Dryopteris carthusiana}. The rare Staffordshire species {\it Carex x boenninghausiana} has been recorded in the Sherbrook valley.

* Nationally Scarce species are those occurring in between 16 and 100 10km squares in Britain (Scarce Plants in Britain, Steuart {\it et al}, 1994).

MANAGE:
Bracken and scrub encroachment are a serious problem on the common and will require constant contol to maintain this important area of heathland. The 1989 survey mentions control of bracken by burning, flailing and spraying etc. Several large areas were observed to have been burnt and some areas of the heather cut.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the site visit. Tracks and damage by fallow deer were noted during the 1986 survey. The common lies within the Cannock Chase SSSI, the fauna of which is described under the entry for CL89.

VEG:
White House Land is a flat area of common land which slopes gently towards the Sherbrook valley at the north-western point. The land was formerly occupied by the military. The common is surrounded by forestry plantations, the area between the common and CL89 having been recently clear felled. 

The vegetation consists of acid dry dwarf shrub heath, locally forming a mosaic with acid grassland. The heathland is dominated by fairly mature {\it Calluna vulgaris} locally with {\it Empetrum nigrum, Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Vaccinium vitis-idaea}, particularly in the west (all recorded as abundant in 1986). Occasional {\it Erica cinerea} was recorded in 1986. 

The acid grassland is dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Molinia caerulea}. {\it Nardus stricta} occurs locally, particularly along the path edges. {\it Linum catharticum, Lotus corniculatus, Galium saxatile} and {\it Hypochaeris radicata} also occur along the paths. There are a few areas of semi-improved neutral grassland of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Agrostis capillaris, Holcus mollis} and some {\it Festuca ovina}.

In places the common is invaded by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (locally forming a continuous layer), scattered scrub and trees of {\it Pinus} spp., {\it Betula pendula, Crataegus monogyna, Ulex europaeus} and {\it U. gallii} and areas of semi-natural {\it Pinus} spp. self set from the surrounding plantations and mixed woodland of {\it Pinus} sp. and {\it Betula pendula}.

White House Land is part of the Cannock Chase SSSI which is described more fully under the entry for CL89.

MANAGE:
The area is managed by Staffordshire County Council. Since 1986 there has been a decrease in the amount of {\it Vaccinium} spp. and {\it Empetrum nigrum} and the quality of the heathland has probably improved. Scrub, tree and bracken encroachment still remain a problem and will require continual management to conseve the heathland.


FAUNA:
Redstart and the butterflies peacock, speckled wood, large white and common blue were recorded during the site visit. During the 1986 survey of the wider area of Penkridge Bank included within the SSSI, fallow deer, nightjar, adders, the notable Lepidoptera {\it Clepis senecionan, Pseudoterpna pruinata atropunctaria, Eupithecia goosensiata, Argyrotaenia pulchellana} and {\it Perionia strigillaria} were recorded. This area is the primary site on Cannock Chase for {\it Stilbia anomala}. A general description of the fauna of the SSSI is included under the entry for CL89.

VEG:
A more or less level area of common land sloping gently to the north-east. As for CL90 this area of common land is the site of an old military camp from the first World War. Some concrete foundations remain. The common is bordered to the south and west by coniferous plantations. A phase 1 survey was carried out in 1985 for English Nature and the vegetation was mapped again in 1993 by Land Use Consultants for Staffordshire County Council forming the basis of this report. A general description of the vegetation of the SSSI is included under the entry for CL89.

The vegetation is predominantly of acid dry dwarf shrub heath with scattered trees and scrub. The heathland is composed of {\it Calluna vulgaris, Empetrum nigrum} and {\it Vaccinium vitis-idaea} generally in the ratio (50:25:25). Associated species include {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Molinia caerulea, Erica tetralix, E. cinerea, Vaccinium myrtillus} and locally {\it Nardus stricta} and {\it Festuca ovina}. {\it Erica tetralix} is most frequent in the south-western corner. The scattered trees are {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Pinus} sp. and the scrub {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Ulex} spp. Towards the centre of the common the scrub becomes denser and there is scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and tall ruderal vegetation amongst the heath. In general {\it Pteridium aquilinum} is largely restricted to the edges of the tracks and a few continuous stands.

Along the western edge is a strip of semi-improved neutral grassland of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} with occasional {\it Dactylis glomerata, Calluna vulgaris, Lotus corniculatus, Trifolium repens, Stellaria graminea} and {\it Cirsium arvense} and scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Betula pendula}.

Along the northern edge is an area of {\it Betula pendula} woodland with occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. The understorey consists of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and the groundflora {\it Agrostis capillaris, Pteridium aquilinum} and locally abundant {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}.

MANAGE:
The common generally appears well managed and in a similar condition to when surveyed in 1986 with the exception of an increase in scrub in the central sections of the common which require attention. Continuing scrub and bracken control will be required to conserve the heathland.


FAUNA:
A fallow deer stag, sparrowhawk, blue tit, great tit, chaffinch, blackbird, carrion crow, long-tailed tit, swallow and a small copper butterfly were recorded during the site visit. Red squirrel occur in the {\it Pinus sylvestris} woodland around Brindley heath, a species which is otherwise absent from central southern England. Brindley Heath is one of five commons lying partly or wholly within the Cannock Chase Site of Special Scientific Interest, the fauna of which is described under the entry for CL89.

VEG:
Brindley Heath slopes gently from the south-west corner in a north-easterly direction and is crossed by a number of small valleys. One runs from the track which joins the southern edge of the site to the north-east corner bisecting the common. The Brindley Valley crosses the northern end of the common running north-west to south-east and continuing south along the edge of the common and a third valley (a subsiduary valley to Brindley valley) runs west to east from SJ99651485 to SK00401480 with a track following its course. The common is bordered by coniferous plantation to the north and west.

The majority of the common supports degenerate heathland succeeding rapidly to {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Pinus} spp. woodland (particularly in the west) with occasional {\it Quercus robur}. There are small plantations of {\it Pinus} sp. within this woodland. To the south of the abandoned County Primary school there is an area of {\it Pinus} spp. dominated woodland with some {\it Prunus laurocerasus} and {\it Rhododenron} sp. About 25 percent of the land area is closed woodland (A131) with a groundflora of {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Vaccinium myrtillus, V. vitis-idaea, Pteridium aquilinum, Calluna vulgaris, Galium saxatile} and {\it Molinia caerulea} (sparser where {\it Pinus} spp. are denser) and a similar amount of open canopy woodland with a good amount of surviving heathy understorey. The remaining areas of heathland consist of {\it Calluna vulgaris} with {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it V. vitis-idaea} (locally dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}). {\it Pteridium aquilinum} is present over almost all the remaining open areas and locally co-dominant. Trees are also invading across the site. There are some areas of dry acid grassland of {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Nardus strica, Agrostis capillaris}, occasional {\it Molinia caerulea, Galium saxatile, Calluna vulgaris, Dactylis glomerata, Juncus effusus, Cirsium arvense} and locally {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and scattered {\it Betula pendula, Ulex europaeus, Pinus} spp. and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. There is a small glade of mown semi-improved neutral grassland within the woodland to the north of the common with abundant {\it Agrostis capillaris}, and occasional {\it Lotus corniculatus, Plantago lanceolata, Dactylis glomerata, Trifolium repens, Hypochaeris radicata, Euphrasia officinale} agg. and {\it Leontodon autumnalis}. The bottom of the Brindley valley supports areas of marshy grassland of frequent {\it Molinia caerulea} with {\it Nardus stricta, Deschampsia flexuosa, Galium saxatile, Agrostis capillaris, Holcus mollis, Juncus effusus, J. squarrosus} and {\it Calluna vulgaris} with occasional {\it Erica tetralix}. There is a recently excavated pond in the valley with a species of water crowfoot {\it Ranunculus} sp. 

The south-eastern end of the common is situated on the edge of a plateau sloping to the north and dropping quite sharply into the Brindley valley to the east. This area supports the largest area of open heathland although again with invasive {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, {\it Betula pendula} woodland (particularly along the eastern edge) and locally with scattered trees and scrub mainly of {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Pinus} spp. {\it Calluna vulgaris} is present in all stages of its life-cycle with some {\it Vaccinium vitis-idaea, V. myrtillus, Empetrum nigrum, Deschampsia flexuosa, Molinia caerulea, Festuca ovina} and {\it Nardus stricta} occurring locally. {\it Erica tetralix} was recorded occasionally on the sides of the small valleys in this area in 1986. A heathy understorey survives beneath the {\it Betula pendula} woodland which also supports a variety of fungi. 

The south-western portion of the common largely supports coniferous plantation. Beneath the pines in the west of this area the groundflora is dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. Elsewhere a heathy understorey persists particularly within the area of mixed semi-natural woodland where there is a good amount of {\it Calluna vulgaris} with some {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. There is a good area of regenerating {\it Calluna vulgaris} although with some invading {\it Pteridium aquilinum} in a recently burnt area which has also left some standing deadwood. There are a couple of stands of {\it Calluna vulgaris} close to the southern boundary of this area being invaded by {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

MANAGE:
Brindley heath is being actively managed probably by the County Council. Scrub clearance work and management of heather by cutting (and possibly locallised burning) was evident. There is certainly less scrub in the south-eastern part of the site compared with 1986. This part of the common was also subject to some grazing experiments in the 1970's using enclosures. Locally there has been an increase in the amount of {\it Calluna vulgaris} with respect to the other ericaeous species since 1986 and possibly a slight increase in the overall cover of heath. {\it Pteridium aquilinum} encroachment still remains a problem on the common. There appears to have been an increase in the amount of closed woodland since 1986 particularly in the south-west which was described much more as open heath being invaded by {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Pinus} sp. and {\it Betula pendula} and now largely mapped as coniferous plantation. There is a good amount of {\it Calluna vulgaris} regenerating on the site of an accidental burn although also becoming invaded by {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. There has been some clearance of the encroaching {\it Betula pendula} woodland along the south-eastern boundary which is being replaced by heath. A pond has recently been created on the common in the Brindley valley. There is a mown glade in the woodland at the northern end of the common (a picnic area?) and some of the paths are maintained by mowing.


VEG:
Knowsley common is a small, fairly level area of common land. The major habitat is dry heath/acid grassland mosaic dominated by dense tussocks of {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Molinia caerulea} with frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris, Nardus stricta, Juncus squarrosus} and occasional {\it Potentilla erecta}. {\it Calluna vulgaris} forms about 25 percent of the mosaic mostly in the degenerate stage with occasional {\it Erica tetralix}. {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} forms about 10 percent cover along the southern boundary. {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Chamerion angustifolium, Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Succisa pratensis} occur locally. There is a small dried up pool full of {\it Juncus effusus} along the eastern edge with some {\it Salix cinerea} and {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub and some {\it Urtica dioica, Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium} nearby. There is a small group of planted {\it Betula pendula} in the southernmost corner.

There is a gravel surfaced car park on the north-western portion of the common surrounded by an area of amenity grassland dominated by {\it Lolium perenne} with {\it Trifolium repens} and {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. Some {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} have been planted along the north-western boundary where there are also some {\it Betula pendula, Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. There is a small area of scrub of {\it Betula pendula, Corylus avellana} and {\it Malus} sp. (possibly planted). To the west of the car park is a small area of semi-improved neutral grassland with frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Holcus mollis, Vicia sativa, Potentilla erecta, Calluna vulgaris, Chamerion angustifolium, Dryopteris dilatata} and a few {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. {\it Urtica dioica, Calystegia sepium, Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Dactylis glomerata} are locally frequent.

The small fragment of the common to the east supports a semi-improved neutral grassland of {\it Agrostis capillaris} locally with {\it Festuca rubra, Plantago lanceolata, Trifolium} spp. and {\it Hieracium} sp. along the roadside and {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Urtica dioica, Anthriscus sylvestris, Dryopteris dilatata, Holcus mollis} and {\it Ulex europaeus} away from the roadside. The boundaries to the east and south of the common comprise {\it Ilex aquifolium} dominated hedges.

MANAGE:
The area around the car park (set aside as a picnic area with tables and benches and possibly reseeded) and the verges are kept mown. The remainder of the common is apparently unmanaged and has changed little since the 1986 survey. {\it Calluna vulgaris} regeneration is restricted due to the build up of {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Molinia caerulea} litter. Intervention is required to encourage regrowth of the {\it Calluna} and maintain the heath element. When the {\it Betula pendula} planted on the common reach maturity these will present a threat of scrub encroachment.


FAUNA:
Chaffinch and mallard were recorded during the site visit. Moorhen, brown hawker dragonfly and cabbage white butterfly were recorded during the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust survey 29.07.82. Four spotted chaser dragonfly was recorded in 1993.

VEG:
Elford Heath is a level area of common land situated just outside Eccleshall. The vegetation largely comprises an area of semi-improved neutral grassland of frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris} with locally frequent {\it Lolium perenne, Holcus lanatus, Hypochaeris radicata} and occasional {\it Dactylis glomerata, Anthriscus sylvestris, Heracleum sphondylium, Taraxacum officinale, Rumex obtusifolius, Ranunculus repens, Festuca pratensis, Trifolium repens, Plantago lanceolata} and less frequently {\it Rumex acetosa, Cardamine pratensis, Centaurea nigra} and {\it Trifolium pratense}. Locally there are scattered trees of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Quercus} sp. and there are also a couple of ornamental {\it Fagus sylvatica} 'Purpurea'. Along the northern edge close to the car park is a small area of marshy grassland of {\it Holcus lanatus, Deschampsia cespitosa, Cirsium palustre, Ranunculus repens, Filipendula ulmaria, Vicia cracca, Iris pseudacorus, Achillea ptarmica} and {\it Lotus pedunculatus}. 

Along the southern edge is a small area of {\it Alnus glutinosa} woodland with an understorey of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Alnus glutinosa, Salix cinerea} and a groundflora of {\it Hedera helix, Urtica dioica, Lonicera periclymenum, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it R. idaeus}. There are also a few small areas of continuous scrub of {\it Salix cinerea} locally with {\it Quercus} sp. and a groundflora of {\it Urtica dioica, Heracleum sphondylium, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}.

There is a large pond at the eastern end of the common surrounded by a few {\it Salix fragilis} and some {\it Ulex europaeus}. Fringing the pond are {\it Mentha aquatica, Solanum dulcamara, Lotus pedunculatus, Carex hirta, Juncus effusus, Galium palustre, Myosotis} sp. and emergent {\it Typha latifolia} and {\it Iris pseudacorus}. 

The common is bordered largely by tall hedgerows of {\it Crataegus monogyna} with some {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Prunus spinosa, Quercus robur} and {\it Corylus avellana}.

The additional marsh species {\it Eleocharis palustris, Epilobium  palustre, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Juncus articulatus, J. acutiflorus, J. conglomeratus} and {\it Ranunculus flammula} and also {\it Succisa pratensis} were recorded during the SWT survey 29.07.82.

MANAGE:
The majority of the common is mown appart from the small area of marshy grassland along the northern boundary which had not been cut. There has been some tree planting and the pond appears to be well maintained.


VEG:
Highshutt is situated on the edge of a great ledge of sandstone. It has been partly quarried and overlooks Cheadle. It lies adjacent to the National Trust nature reserve of Hawksmoor Wood which supports {\it Betula pendula, Quercus robur/Betula pendula} and mixed woodlands above {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. 

The vegetation of Highshutt is very similar to that of the National Trust reserve. The majority of the common supports a semi-natural broadleaved woodland of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pendula} with a sparse understorey of {\it Ilex aquifolium} and rarely {\it Sorbus aucuparia} and a groundflora of {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Vaccinium myrtillus, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Dryopteris dilatata, Digitalis purpurea, Holcus mollis} and less frequently {\it Teucrium scorodonia, Galium saxatile} and {\it Hedera helix}, locally with openings of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. 

Along the top of the rocky outcrop at the edge of the quarried area is a strip of acid dry dwarf-shrub heath comprising {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea} and {\it Ulex} sp. of varying proportions: locally 50:50 {\it Calluna vulgaris:Erica cinerea} and locally up to 50 percent of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. Locally, acid grassland makes up to 60 percent of the heath comprising {\it Nardus stricta} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} and there is also some encroachment of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} at the southern end. 

Part of the base of the quarry is a car park and the remainder supports tall ruderal vegetation with scattered scrub consisiting of {\it Cirsium arvense, Arrhenatherum elatius, Heracleum sphondylium, Quercus robur, Sambucus nigra, Betula pendula, Reynoutria japonica, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Crataegus monogyna}. A similar vegetation exists around the car park on the separate northern section with {\it Calystegia sepium, Anthriscus sylvestris, Rumex} spp., {\it Urtica dioica, Elytrigia repens, Pteridium aquilinum, Heracleum sphondylium, Cirsium arvense, Quercus robur, Sambucus nigra, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.

MANAGE:
The common appears largely unmanaged and part of the small heathland area will probably be lost beneath the encroaching {\it Pteridium aquilinum} without intervention. There was quite a lot of rubbish in the car park in the old quarry apparently from travellers camping there and there was a lot of dumped garden rubbish within the woodland near to the car park.


FAUNA:
Grey squirrel, wren, wood pigeon and speckled wood butterfly were recorded during the site visit. There are some large ant hills in the area of acid dry dwarf-shrub heath. According to the Site of Biological Interest entry the site supports very good butterfly populations. Species recorded 1992-93 (Butterfly Conservation Society records) were common and small blues, green-veined, large and small whites, wall brown, small heath, dingy and large skippers, orange tip, small tortoiseshell, small copper, painted lady, comma, speckled wood and peacock. In addition, hedge and meadow browns and small skipper were recorded in 1980-82. The common is also of interest for Odonata with broad bodied chaser dragonfly and common blue, azure, blue-tailed and red-eyed damselflies recorded between 1980 and 1985.

VEG:
Wyrley common is situated on the Staffordshire/West Midlands border. There is a large spoil heap at the south-western end. The majority of the common is covered by woodland and scrub. 

The majority of the woodland is damp and low lying and the canopy is dominated by {\it Betula pendula} with occasional {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. The understorey is sparse with occasional {\it Quercus robur} and infrequent {\it Ilex aquifolium, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. The groundflora comprises {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Deschampsia flexuosa, Digitalis purpurea, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Juncus} sp., ferns, occasional {\it Calluna vulgaris} and locally frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. {\it Carex otrubae, Sphagnum} sp., {\it Cirsium palustre, Galium palustre} and {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris} have been recorded from the wetter areas (date?). Marsh orchid ({\it Dactylorhiza} sp.) was recorded in 1978.

The scrub comprises {\it Quercus robur, Crataegus monogyna, Betula pendula, Acer pseudoplatanus, Ulex europaeus, Sambucus nigra, Salix cinerea} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with occasional {\it Calluna vulgaris, Molinia caerulea, Dryopteris dilatata, Agrostis stolonifera, Dryopteris felix-mas} and the bryophyte {\it Brachythecium rutabulum}. {\it Populus tremula} is locally dominant. {\it Reynoutria japonica} is locally dominant on the small separate part of the common. To the south-west of the area of dry dwarf-shrub heath is a small stand of {\it Phragmites australis} with some {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica}. {\it Carex nigra, Typha latifolia} and {\it Sphagnum} sp. were recorded in this area? in 1979. 

The small area of acid dry dwarf-shrub heath amongst the scrub surveyed for English Nature in 1986 supports about 30 percent {\it Calluna vulgaris} with occasional {\it Empetrum nigrum} and {\it Erica tetralix} amongst acid grassland of {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Festuca ovina, Nardus stricta, Agrostis capillaris, Pilosella officinarum, Potentilla erecta, Rumex acetosella, Hieracium umbellatum, Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Galium saxatile}. There are a few scattered trees of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pendula} and some {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. scrub.

The steep sides of the spoil heap are covered with continuous scrub but there is still a lot of bare ground on the top of the revegetating spoil heap and an area of bare ground west of this adjacent to the track. Species recorded from these areas include {\it Centaureum erythraea, Hypericum perforatum, Prunella vulgaris, Centaurea nigra, Euphrasia officinale} agg. and occasional {\it Calluna vulgaris}. {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii} and {\it Anthyllis vulneraria} were recorded in 1979, {\it Erica cineria, Lathyrus pratensis, Reseda luteola} in 1980 and {\it Ononis spinosa} and {\it Rhinanthus minor} in 1982?

There is a small pool on top of the spoil heap at SK027059 supporting {\it Typha latifolia, Schoenoplectus lacustris, Plantago alisma-aquatica, Ranunculus flammula, Potomogeton} sp. and {\it Myriophyllum} sp. {\it Berula erecta} was recorded here in 1980? and {\it Hippuris vulgaris} in 1986. A second former pool at the foot of the spoil heap slopes at SK02550585 now supports a marshy grassland vegetation with frequent {\it Juncus inflexus} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} with occasional {\it Cirsium arvense, Plantago lanceolata, Linum catharticum, Centaurea nigra, Prunella vulgaris, Centaureum erythraea, Festuca pratensis} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}. {\it Agrostis canina, Alopecurus geniculatus, Carex nigra, C. otrubae, Eleocharis palustre, Galium palustre, Juncus articulatus, J. bufonius, J. conglomeratus, J. effusus, Molinia caerulea, Myosotis caespitosa, Ranunculus sceleratus, Hippuris vulgaris} and {\it Myriophyllum spicatum} were recorded here? in 1980. 

Bordering the northern edge of the common and on the roadside verge of the small separate portion of the common are areas of semi-improved neutral grassland of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with occasional {\it Elytrigia repens, Deschampsia cespitosa, Chamerion angustifolium, Cirsium arvense, Achillea millefolium, Lotus corniculatus, Centaurea nigra} and locally {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Agrostis capillaris}.

MANAGE:
The common appears largely unmanaged. There has been some scrub clearance particularly in the area of the acid dry dwarf shrub heath. The areas of bare ground are also the focus of motorcycle scrambling which is probably the reason for these bare areas remaining. It would be of benefit to control this activity if possible. Scrub is also encroaching on this floristically interesting area. The ponds on the common are a valuable habitat for Odonata and should be managed accordingly (there are also a number of other ponds nearby and the Wyrley and Essington canal). There was some dumped soil on the verge of the small separate area of the common. The common was intended for recreational development in 1979.


FAUNA:
Swallow, jay and red admiral butterfly were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Castle Ring is an Iron age hill fort within the Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. 

The outer ramparts are largely covered with {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scrub comprising {\it Betula pendula, Quercus robur} and {\it Pinus} sp. Vegetation of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scattered scrub also occupies some of the interior of the fort.

There are two small areas of woodland. To the west is an area of semi-natural {\it Quercus robur} woodland with occasional {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Pinus} sp. in the canopy, some regenerating {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. in the understorey and a sparse groundflora of {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Deschampsia flexuosa, Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Molinia caerulea}. The second area to the east  is predominantly of {\it Pinus} sp. with occasional {\it Quercus robur} with a sparse groundflora of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. 

The remainder of the common comprises unimproved acid grassland of {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} with occasional {\it Nardus stricta} (locally abundant), {\it Juncus squarrosus, J. conglomeratus, Vaccinium myrtillus, Holcus mollis} and {\it Galium saxatile}. To the south-east, a narrow ridge and furrow pattern is evident. At the northern end amongst the acid grassland are two large patches of {\it Empetrum nigrum} (mown) and at the southern end is a small area of marshy grassland with {\it Juncus effusus, Polygonum persicaria} and a stand of {\it Carex nigra}. 

At the southern end of the common between the inner and outer ramparts is a small area of shallow standing water supporting {\it Menyanthes trifoliata, Juncus bulbosus, J. effusus, J. acutiflorus}, some {\it Sphagnum} sp. and a species of water lily. {\it Agrostis stolonifera} is frequent in the area.

MANAGE:
The areas of acid grassland are kept mown and there has been some removal of young trees. The areas of grassland will need continuous management to prevent them from becoming encroached further with {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scrub.


FAUNA:
Wood pigeon, great tit, wren, magpie, blue tit and the butterflies red admiral, peacock and small copper were seen during the site visit. One pair of snipe were recorded on the southern part of the common in 1984. Lapwing, snipe, redshank and possibly curlew were recorded in the general area during the RSPB breeding waders of wet meadows survey 1982 although it is unclear whether this included the common (central grid reference SK205035). Mallard, moorhen, yellow wagtail and sedge warbler were also recorded during the latter survey.

VEG:
Warwickshire Moor lies in the floodplain of the River Anker on the outskirts of Tamworth. The common is subdivided into three parts by the railway and a disused railway line.

The southernmost part is the wettest and supports an abandoned tall marshy grassland with a quantity of tall herbs comprising {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Angelica sylvestris, Iris pseudacorus, Filipendula ulmaria, Epilobium hirsutum, Lycopus europaeus} and {\it Cirsium arvense}. {\it Urtica dioica} is locally dominant. {\it Bidens tripartita} and {\it Scutellaria galericulata} were also recorded. At the southern end is a small area of swamp dominated by {\it Phragmites australis}. Along the stone-lined ditch to the north-west {\it Glyceria maxima, Mentha aquatica, Apium nodiflorum, Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica} were recorded. Scrub of {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Salix} spp. has developed along the central drain in this area. There is a narrow strip of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} grassland along the roadside. The area of bare ground adjacent to the road is a small car park.

The central section is dominated by a semi-improved acid grassland of frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris}, occasional to frequent {\it Holcus lanatus} and occasional {\it Campanula rotundifolia, Juncus effusus, Deschampsia cespitosa, Festuca rubra} and less frequently {\it Galium palustre, Potentilla erecta, Rumex acetosella} and {\it Poa pratensis}. Scattered scrub of {\it Cytisus scoparius} and {\it Ulex europaeus} is present. {\it Calluna vulgaris} is rare in this habitat. 

To the south the grassland is a ranker and more neutral {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} grassland with occasional to frequent {\it Elytrigia repens, Cirsium arvense, Hieracium} sp., occasional {\it Filipendula ulmaria} (locally dominant), {\it Tanacetum vulgare, Heracleum sphondylium, Achillea millefolium, Stellaria graminea, Sanguisorba major, Lycopus europaeus, Angelica sylvestris, Deschampsia cespitosa, Chamerion angustifolium} with a scattered scrub of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Betula pendula} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. {\it Solidago canadensis} occurs locally and there are patches of {\it Carex acutiformis}. 

There are a couple of areas of marshy grassland at the junction of ditches which are dominated by {\it Filipendula ulmaria} with {\it Angelica sylvestris, Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Solidago canadensis}. Some {\it Salix} scrub occurs along the internal ditches. 

{\it Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus robur} occur along the south-western boundary with {\it Crataegus monogyna, Salix fragilis} and {\it Salix cinerea} occuring locally and there is a dry ditch to the north-west with a tall {\it Crataegus monogyna} hedge with occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur}. {\it Impatiens capensis}, an introduced species, was recorded along this boundary. The abandoned railway line separating this section from the northernmost is overgrown with {\it Crataegus monogyna} and some {\it Sambucus nigra}.

The northern section supports a similar semi-improved acid grassland in places, as on the central section, locally with some {\it Stachys officinalis} and {\it Succisa pratensis}. Elsewhere the grassland is generally rather rank {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with locally frequent {\it Angelica sylvestris, Anthriscus sylvestris} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium}. {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} is also locally frequent with {\it Potentilla anserina, Galeopsis tetrahit, Carex hirta} and {\it Sanguisorba major}. A shallow ditch runs through the centre of the common (not marked on the map) bordered by frequent {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it J. conglomeratus}. {\it Carex ovalis} was recorded here. A strip along the south-eastern edge is cut off by a ditch with {\it Salix alba} pollards. It supports an {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} grassland with some tall herbs similar to that on the opposite side of the ditch. This section is continuous with the adjoining land to the south-east which also appeared to have open access. To the north-west, this northern section was bordered by a hedgerow of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Prunus spinosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Salix} sp.

MANAGE:
The rankness of the vegetation and encoachment of scrub on the common suggests that there is little management at present although there are 18 registered rights of pasture. Possibly there is some locallised grazing as the grassland was locally shorter and less rank. The area bordering the road on the southern part of the common is kept cut back. All parts could benefit from some grazing, in particular the southernmost part (which would need to be cut first) which is the most overgrown. This would open up the vegetation and allow more diminutive plants to grow. It may also make it more favourable to ground-nesting birds.


FAUNA:
Black-headed gull, wood pigeon and pied wagtail were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Wolstanton marsh supports an amenity turf of abundant {\it Lolium perenne} and {\it Agrostis capillaris}, occasional {\it Trifolium repens, Taraxacum officinale, Plantago major, Bellis perennis, Holcus lanatus} and infrequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Leontodon autumnalis, Rumex acetosella, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Achillea millefolium}. Surfaced pavements run along the roadsides which are lined with {\it Tilia} sp., {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and other ornamental {\it Acer} spp., {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Populus} sp. including some {\it Populus nigra?}. Some recent plantings include {\it Sorbus aria} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}.

MANAGE:
Management of the common includes frequent mowing, pruning mature trees and tree planting. Some young trees have been planted behind the more mature trees on the common presumably to provide continuity.


FAUNA:
Grey squirrel, greater spotted woodpecker, green woodpecker, wood pigeon, robin, magpie, the butterflies small copper and painted lady and a number of dragonfly species were seen during the site visit. A buzzard was heard nearby. Breeding wood warbler, badger sett, bog bush cricket, lizard and glow worm were recorded by M. Averill, 1992.

A lot of data has been collected on the invertebrate fauna. A survey by S. Falk, 1995, recorded the following Red Data book species: three nomad bees {\it Nomada signata, N. lathburiana} and {\it N. lineola}, a digger wasp {\it Diodontus insidiosus} and two flies {\it Brachicheta strigata} and {\it Myopa strandi} (also the mining bee {\it Andrena nigrospina} which will probably receive Red Data Book species status following its split from {\it A. carbonaria}). 16 Nationally scarce species were also recorded. These were {\it Adonia variegata, Andrena bimaculata, A. humilis, A. nigriceps, Chrysolina oricalcia, Conops vesicularis, Lasioglossum quadrinottatus, Longitarsis parvulus, Nomada flavopicta, N. pleurosticta, Paroxyna absinthii, Pipizella virens, Sapromyza opaca, Sphecodes crassus} and {\it S. reticulatus}. A further two nationally scarce species were recorded by M. Bloxham {\it Lasipogon cinctus} and {\it Methocha ichneumonides}. A total 84 species of beetle were recorded from the common in 1994 and 1995 including the local Carabids {\it Bembidion lunulatum} and {\it Dromius quadrinotatus}, the local Chysomelid {\it Chalcoides aurata} and the notable Curculionid {\it Magdalis cerasi}.

The dragonflies Emperor, four spotted chaser, broad bodied chaser, black darter, common darter, southern hawker and the damselflies blue-tailed, azure, common emerald and large red were recorded in July 1995. There are records for the additional dragonflies common hawker, brown hawker and migrant hawker and the damselfly {\it Enallagma cyathigera} (M. Averill, 1986-88). 

The butterflies comma, common blue, gatekeeper, green-veined white, large skipper, large white, meadow brown, peacock, purple hairstreak, red admiral, ringlet, small copper, small heath, small skipper, small tortoiseshell, small white and speckled wood were recorded in 1995 with the additional species orange tip and painted lady recorded in 1994 and green hairstreak in 1993 (W&K. Wheatley). A total of 44 species of moth have been recorded from the common 1992-1995 (W&K. Wheatley).

VEG:
Highgate common is underlain by Lower Mottled Soft Red Sandstone of the Hunter series along with patches of Pleistocene sands and gravels. The soils are typically sandy, well drained and highly acidic humo-ferric podsols and typical brown sands. The topography is gently undulating (S. Falk, 1995). The following description and the accompanying map are largely based on the 1993 Brief Management Plan compiled for English Nature by Ecotech, Shrewsbury, 1993.

The area to the north of White House Lane is largely wooded. The canopy is dominated by {\it Betula pendula} with frequent {\it Quercus robur} with an understorey of {\it Ilex aquifolium, Corylus avellana, Ulmus glabra, Taxus baccata, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. The groundflora is dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. {\it Hedera helix, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Moehringia trinervia} were also recorded. There are a number of large clearings in the woodland supporting {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered scrub and locally tall ruderal species such as {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium} and areas of dry and wet heathland and acid grassland. The area immediately south of the northern car park has been planted with trees such as {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Carpinus betulus}. At SO838906 there is an area of degenerate heather which has been recently burnt with {\it Rumex acetosella, Nardus stricta, Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Aira praecox}. This area is becoming invaded by {\it Betula pendula}. At SO841907 there is an area of dry heath/acid grassland mosaic with both {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Erica cinerea} and {\it Potentilla erecta, Galium palustre, Nardus stricta, Deschampsia flexuosa} and the bryophyte {\it Pseudoscleropodium purum}. There is a small area of wet heathland with {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Erica tetralix}. Near the car park at the eastern end of White House Lane is an area of semi-improved acid grassland with frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} and occasional {\it Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Holcus lanatus} locally with some degenerate {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Erica cinerea}. Finally, in the centre is an area of wet heath and pools. The heathland comprises {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Erica tetralix}. The pools were created in 1981/82 and planted with {\it Glyceria maxima} and {\it Typha latifolia}. Each has an island planted with {\it Pinus sylvestris, Rhododendrum} sp. and {\it Alnus glutinosa}. {\it Bidens tripartita, Polygonum persicaria, Sphagnum} sp., {\it Iris pseudacorus, Galium palustre} and a water lily were recorded from one of these ponds in 1996 which was dry at the time of the site visit.

To the south of White House Lane is a large open area of dry heath/acid grassland mosaic with {\it Calluna vulgaris} constituting not more than 30 percent of the mosaic. {\it Erica cinerea, Vaccinium myrtillus, Ulex europaeus} and {\it Cytisus scoparius} are occasional. Locally there are areas of scattered and continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scattered {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus robur}. To the northwest there is an area of semi-natural broadleaved woodland similar to that north of White House Lane with a small pine plantation and much {\it Ulex europaeus}. There are a few other fragments of similar woodland and a further two pine plantations south of the Forestry Commission nursery. The acid grassland comprises frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} with occasional {\it Nardus stricta, Juncus squarrosus, Molinia caerulea, Arrhenatherum elatius, Leontodon autumalis, Holcus lanatus, Plantago lanceolata, Hypochaeris radicata} and locally {\it Campanula rotundifolia, Aira praecox} and {\it Rumex acetosella}. There is a small pool at SO838897 which was almost dry at the time of the site visit with an ornamental water lily, {\it Menyanthes trifoliata, Juncus bulbosus}, some {\it Sphagnum} moss and {\it Carex} sp. and fringed by {\it Juncus effusus} with {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris} and {\it Iris pseudacorus}.

To the south-east of the Forestry Commission nursery the vegetation is again dominated by semi-natural {\it Betula pendula} woodland. There are a number of small glades in this area largely dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with some tall degenerate {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea} and remnants of acid grassland. There are a couple of areas of dry heath/acid grassland mosaic.

MANAGE:
The common is largely unmanaged and there has been a decrease in the amount of heather on the open area of dry heath/acid grassland mosaic from about 60 percent in 1986 to 30 percent in 1996. As the heather dies it is being replaced by dense, tussocky {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} preventing regeneration of the heather. Trampling by visitors may also have contributed to the decrease. Rotational burning or cutting would encourage new growth and hopefully some regeneration. The fragments of heath in the woodland to the south-east of the forestry nursery have also largely become invaded by {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. Continual scrub and bracken control will be required to maintain the open heathland and grassland areas and woodland clearings (some scrub removal was noted in the area of wet heath at SO838902). 

The extent of the woodland seems to have remained much the same. Apparently much of the {\it Betula pendula} was planted in the 40 years up to 1967. There are also a few small conifer plantations and some amenity planting of trees. 

The numerous paths crossing the common support a nationally important assemblage of ground nesting bees and wasps and their associated parasites. The ponds support a range of dragonfly species and should be maintained (some were almost dry at the time of the site visit).


VEG:
The area of common land was assumed to be the area beyond the road verges delimited by a railing fence and at a lower level than the road and verges. It comprises three areas of level ground separated by tracks with a small raised area at the northern end.

The main part of this unit comprises a mosaic of semi-improved neutral and acid grassland. The semi-improved acid grassland consists of predominantly {\it Nardus stricta} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} with occasional {\it Holcus mollis, Vicia sativa, Cirsium arvense, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Juncus squarrosus} and locally frequent {\it Succisa pratensis}. One plant of {\it Calluna vulgaris} was also recorded. At the northern end is a small area of unimproved acid grassland of {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Nardus stricta} with occasional {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it Potentilla erecta}. At the southern end of the main block is an area of {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} grassland with frequent {\it Succisa pratensis} and occasional {\it Potentilla erecta}. A strip of grassland of lush {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} occurs along the north-western border with occasional {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. 

Strips of damp semi-improved neutral grassland cross this section of the common with frequent to abundant {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus lanatus, Juncus articulatus, J. conglomeratus, Achillea ptarmica, Stachys sylvatica, Elytrigia repens} and locally frequent {\it Centaurea nigra}. At the northern end there is a small area of {\it Iris pseudacorus, Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Carex nigra}. There is a small area of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. scrub along the south-eastern edge and a defunct hedgerow of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra} with some {\it Prunus} sp. trees. Along the trackside at the southern end is a row of {\it Tilia x vulgaris}.

The middle section of the common at grid reference SJ90955144 supports a semi-improved neutral grassland of {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} with occasional {\it Plantago lanceolata, Trifolium pratense, Rumex acetosa, Festuca rubra, Ranunculus repens, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Lotus pedunculatus}. There is a small area of {\it Salix capraea} scrub in the centre. The southernmost section supports a species-poor {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} dominated sward. 

There are a couple of rank areas of semi-improved neutral grassland on the common with tall ruderal species comprising {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Urtica dioica, Chamerion angustifolium, Cirsium arvense, Centaurea nigra, Heracleum sphondylium, Rumex obtusifolius} and {\it Plantago lanceolata}. {\it Descampsia cespitosa} and {\it Juncus effusus} are also present in the southernmost area of this vegetation.

The other register units at Baddesley Green are all less than 1ha and support an amenity grassland with scattered trees in places.

MANAGE:
Baddesley Green is regulated by a scheme under the Commons Act 1899 made by the former Leek RDC. Areas of the common were quite rank and appeared unmanaged (particularly the damper areas and the areas with a tall ruderal component). A strip along the north-west border is mown fairly frequently and an area at the southern end also mown. There is a lot of bare ground in the latter area which is possibly used as a games area (there was frequent {\it Succisa pratensis} here). A row of {\it Tilia x vulgaris} have been planted along the trackside bordering this area. The southern parts of the common had recently been cut. There had been a bonfire on the southern end of the common. The common is fairly diverse and would benefit from more consistent and sympathetic management.


FAUNA:
Grey squirrel, the butterflies wall brown, small tortoiseshell, small copper, red admiral and large red damselfly were recorded during the site visit. A woodpecker was heard.

VEG:
Shoal hill common is situated on the outskirts of Cannock and slopes gently to the west and south-west. To the north of the common is a large coniferous plantation. 

A large proportion of the common is covered with semi-natural broadleaved woodland of varying ages. The canopy species are {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pendula}, each species being locally dominant. {\it Pinus sylvestris} (locally frequent) and {\it Fagus sylvatica} are occasional. The understorey comprises {\it Quercus robur, Sorbus aucuparia, Ilex aquifolium, Betula pendula, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus} and the groundflora {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Deschampsia flexuosa, Agrostis capillaris, Holcus lanatus, Chamerion angustifolium, Vaccinium myrtillus} and locally {\it Molinia caerulea}. Degenerate {\it Calluna vulgaris} occurs in places and the hybrid bilberry {\it Vaccinium x intermedium} has been recorded here. There is a small area of coniferous plantation {\it Pinus sylvestris?} at SJ971116. The woodland is encroaching on the heathland area with established areas of continuous scrub of {\it Betula pendula} adjoining the woodland. In places it is very even aged indicating it originated as plantation?

The remainder of the common consists of a mosaic of habitats of acid dry dwarf shrub heath and unimproved acid grassland with locally scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, scrub (particularly {\it Betula pendula}) and small continuous stands of both. The heath element comprises {\it Calluna vulgaris} with occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. {\it Vaccinium vitis-idaea} was also recorded at low frequency. The acid grassland is dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} with occasional {\it Holcus mollis, Rumex acetosella, Nardus stricta} and locally {\it Juncus effusus}. There is an area of bare ground in the centre of the common as a result of a recent fire and an area along the northern boundary had been clear-felled.

Some tree planting was noted around the car park at the north-western end of common amongst scrub of {\it Sambucus nigra, Quercus robur, Symphoricarpos albus, Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Betula pendula}. There are a few areas used for picnicking supporting semi-improved grassland types.

MANAGE:
Much of present heath area is as a result of a fire in 1976. There was some subsequent planting mainly of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia} to replace trees lost in the fire before the site was identified as a valuable area of heathland. The common is managed under a Countryside Stewardship scheme and a local primary school is also involved in a restoration project. There has been a good deal of scrub and bracken clearance and control work since the 1986 survey by English Nature and the area of heathland has been extended. Cannock Wildlife Group and Employment action workers with the Operation South Cannock Countryside Project have been involved with this work. Continuing scrub clearance was also observed including a recently cleared area of more mature woodland. There is a vast seed source on and near the common and scrub control will be an ongoing battle. Areas of the heath have been cut to encourage new growth and there was an area which had been recently burnt possibly also for management purposes. Scarifying may be neccessary to extend the heathland into the areas now dominated by dense {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. 

Some of the picnic areas are mown with some benches provided and there is a waymarked nature trail around the common. A little amenity tree planting has taken place around the north-western car park.


FAUNA:
House martin, swallow, skylark, magpie and the butterflies small copper and wall brown were recorded during the site visit. 

50 species of bird were recorded from the common during 1990 including sparrow hawk, kestrel, lapwing, snipe, curlew, little and tawny owls, fieldfare, redwing, wheatear, stonechat, whinchat, whitethroat, linnet, twite, redpoll, bullfinch and reed bunting. 

A Lepidoptera survey in 1990 recorded the butterflies orange tip, green-veined white, peacock, small tortoiseshell and wall brown, emperor and common heath moths and the micromoths {\it Glyphipterix haworthana} (a local species on {\it Eriophorum}), {\it Elachista canapennella, Eupoecilia angustana f. fasciella, Epinotia ramella, Crambus lathoniellus} and the local {\it Griselda myrtillana}. 

Finally, during an invertebrate survey of Wetley moor carried out by Ecosurveys Ltd. in 1994, the nationally notable ground beetle {\it Pterostichus angustatus} was recorded and the following species characteristic of heathlands: {\it Scolopostethus decoratus} (Hemiptera), {\it Hydroporus melanarius} (associated with peat mosses), {\it Helophorus flavipes} (associated with acid water and sphagnum pools), {\it Strophosomus lateralis} and {\it Lochmaea suturalis} (Coleoptera) and {\it Lycophotia porphyrea} and {\it Xestia agathina} (Lepidoptera). Six species new to Staffordshire were recorded during the survey.

VEG:
Wetley moor comprises one of the largest areas of lowland heathland remaining in Staffordshire. It is situated on high ground which falls away in all directions. A noticeable north-south valley bisects the site with water courses arising from it flowing to the north and south, the centre of the moor being a watershed. Part of the eastern edge is on average 20m higher than the rest of the site with steep west and north facing slopes corresponding with an outcrop of millstone grit. This area is relatively free draining in contrast to the rest of the common.

A large proportion of the common has been enclosed and supports semi-improved and improved grassland or properties with associated gardens. The grassland varies in diveristy with varying amounts of {\it Lolium perenne}. Associated species include species of {\it Trifolium} and {\it Ranunculus}, {\it Plantago lanceolata, Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Cynosurus cristatus}. It is marshy in places, particularly in the south with species of {\it Juncus} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}. The grassland is coarse in places with species such as {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Elytrigia repens}. This latter grassland type also occurs locally in the unenclosed areas of the common.

The areas of unenclosed common had been surveyed to Phase II level in 1995 on which the following description is based. The predominant community is wet heath (H9a {\it Calluna vulgaris-Deschampsia flexuosa} heath, {\it Molinia caerulea} sub-community). {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} is also occasional in the community. In places the cover of {\it Calluna} is greatly reduced leaving a marshy grassland dominated by {\it Molinia}. {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} is locally frequent with occasional {\it Sphagnum recurvum} and {\it Juncus conglomeratus}. In a few other areas {\it Juncus effusus} is abundant or dominant with {\it Eriophorum angustifolium, Carex nigra, Polytrichum commune, Drepanocladus fluitans} and occasionally {\it Sphagnum recurvum, Viola palustris} and {\it Calluna vulgaris}. {\it Vaccinium oxycoccos}, a county rarity has been recorded from such areas. Young {\it Betula} spp. and {\it Salix} spp. trees and saplings are locally frequent and there is one small area of developing semi-natural broadleaved woodland towards the northern end of the common of {\it Betula pubescens} over a groundflora of {\it Polytrichum commune, Molinia caerulea} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. The wetland communities are more extensive than on any of the other lowland heathland sites in the county.

Towards the south-east overlying the freer draining millstone grits the common supports a dry heath community classified as H9e {\it Calluna vulgaris-Deschampsia flexuosa} heath, {\it Hypnum cupressiforme} sub community. {\it Molinia} is scarce and {\it Calluna} predominates with frequent {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}. {\it Ulex gallii} occurs locally and {\it Vaccinium vitis-idaea} is also present.

At (1) (grid reference SJ 924483) there is an interesting area of semi-improved neutral grassland of {\it Festuca ovina, Trifolium repens, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Carex panicea, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and bryophytes such as {\it Calliergon cuspidatum}. 

There are a couple of small areas of unimproved acid grassland in the west with abundant {\it Festuca ovina} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} and frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum}.

There are also a few areas of tall ruderal vegetation on the common, most notably in the small quarry which has been used as a refuse tip and is now capped, of {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Urtica dioica, Holcus lanatus, Tussilago farfara, Senecio jacobaea, Reynoutria japonica, Cirsium arvense, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. 

There has been some planting of trees on the common including two areas of broadleaved plantation associated with past nursery activities and two more recently planted areas on the periphery of the common at grid references SJ 924485 and SJ 929491.

MANAGE:
The common is managed by the Wetley Moor Joint Committee. Staffordshire Moorlands District Council and Stoke on Trent City Council have jointly prepared a management scheme for this unit under the Commons Act 1899. A large proportion of the common has become enclosed and "improved" and a large proportion occupied by properties and gardens. The heathland is in fairly good condition with all the stages in the life cycle of {\it Calluna vulgaris} present. Scrub encroachment is threatening the heathland in places locally succeeding to woodland. Grazing at the time of the site visit was restricted to enclosed areas but grazing by a limited number of ponies and cattle on the common was noted in 1986. There has been some recent tree planting on the common with some more mature stands planted some years ago. There is some damage to the dry heathland bordering onto a small infilled quarry (a capped rubbish tip) at SJ934483 caused by bicycles and some dumped rubble/pallets outside a property at SJ934484.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the brief site visit. For the fauna associated with the SSSI please see the entry for CL89.

VEG:
Haywood Warren lies on a hill bordered to the west by the Sherbrook, to the east by the Old Brook and sloping towards the Trent Valley to the north. The majority of the following description is based on existing information. 

A large proportion of the common supports a large pine planatation. Although time did not allow the interior of the plantation to be explored a fair amount of {\it Calluna vulgaris} was recorded in the groundflora at the northern end. 

The remainder of the common supports continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with greater than 25 percent cover of ericaceous species persisting beneath the canopy in places (mapped as C11/D11), semi-natural broadleaved woodland and semi-natural mixed woodland. The woodland is dominated by {\it Betula pendula} often with {\it Sorbus aucuparia} and locally {\it Pinus sylvestris} and is of fairly recent origin. {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} are the main groundflora constituents. The composition of the heathland is described under the entry for CL89.

MANAGE:
Some felling and replanting was noted at the northern end of the plantation. Encroachment of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} is a serious problem on the remaining open heathland areas.


FAUNA:
The grass contains numerous grasshoppers. Several large white, meadow brown, small copper and small tortoiseshell butterflies seen.

VEG:
The grassland is dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Bromus sterilis, Dactylis glomerata, Elymus repens, Achillea millefolium, Cirsium arvense, Geranium dissectum, Lamium album, Plantago lanceolata, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Trifolium dubium}, plus occasional {\it Phalaris arundinacea, Carduus nutans, Centaurea nigra, Heracleum sphondylium, Urtica dioica} and {\it Silene alba}. 

Along the western boundary, there is occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. Some young {\it Crataegus monogyna} (30 to 50cm high) which will develop into a new hedgerow has been planted along this boundary.

The area of the common adjacent to the River Gipping was viewed through binoculars only. It appears to be grassland similar to that described above, but further survey is required to confirm this.

MANAGE:
There was no evidence of recent grazing. No ongoing management apperent, apart from planting {\it Crataegus monogyna} along the western boundary.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, blue tit, chiffchaff, house sparrow, song thrush, swallow, yellowhammer. The  uncut grass contains numerous grasshoppers. Several meadow brown and small tortoiseshell butterflies seen.

VEG:
The semi-improved neutral grassland was uncut at the time of survey. It is mostly dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Holcus lanatus}, with locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Dactylis glomerata, Lolium perenne, Poa} spp., {\it Centaurea nigra, Lotus corniculatus, Potentilla anserina, P. reptans, Plantago lanceolata, Ranunculus repens, Rumex acetosa, Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Trifolium campestre, T. dubium, T. pratense} and {\it T. repens}, plus occasional {\it Bromus hordeaceus, Leucanthemum vulgare, Malva sylvestris, Picris echioides, Primula veris, Silaum silaus, Silene dioica} and {\it Tragopogon pratensis}. 

Right at the northern end of the common, along a trimmed boundary hedge, there is a strip of calcareous grassland up to 15m wide which contains frequent {\it Briza media, Carex panicea, Galium mollugo} and {\it Primula veris}.    

One pond was found on the common opposite the public house. It is fringed with stands of {\it Typha latifolia} with frequent {\it Solanum dulcamara} and occasional {\it Carex otrubae}. The banks support dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum}. There is a small area of {\it Populus} sp. plantation just to the east of the pond. Two other ponds are situated just outside the western boundary forming part of CL163 and contain occasional {\it Typha latifolia}. They are shaded by surrounding {\it Salix} spp. scrub. 

On the southern and western sides of the common, where there are few residential properties, the boundary hedgerows are up to 10m wide and 5m high, with scattered mature standard trees ({\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur}). On the southern side, the hedgerow is dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna}, with locally frequent {\it Prunus spinosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Sambucus nigra}. On the western side, the hedgerow is dominated by {\it Salix} spp.

MANAGE:
The grass is probably cut for hay in the late summer or early autumn. It is not clear if grazing rights are still exercised. Some grazing may take place on the autumn aftermath or over the winter - stock would probably be tethered as frequently used unfenced A and B class roads cross the common.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: mute swan (along top of riverbank).

VEG:
The common was viewed through binoculars from CL115 and the footpath along the SE boundary of CL116.  It appears to be all short sward, cattle grazed improved grassland.

MANAGE:
Managed as improved grassland, used for cattle grazing. No boundary fence was seen between this common and CL116.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: coot, house sparrow, mallard, moorhen, mute swan, woodpigeon, swallow.

VEG:
The water contains frequent {\it Nuphar lutea} and {\it Sparganium emersum}. Sheltered water along the bank contains frequent {\it Callitriche stagnalis} and {\it Elodea canadensis}. The marginal vegetation is generally well developed; along the waters edge there are discontinuous stands of {\it Glyceria maxima} (which extend up to 3m into the water) and {\it Phalaris arundinacea} with occasional {\it Schoenoplectus lacustris}. Other species recorded include locally frequent {\it Glyceria fluitans, Mentha aquatica, Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum} and {\it Veronica beccabunga} with occasional {\it Iris pseudacorus, Phragmites communis} and {\it Scrophularia aquatica. Ranunculus sceleratus} is frequent along sections of the bank which are used by cattle. Water clarity is good; depth is over 2m in the centre of the channel. The substrate (were visible) is silt and mud.

The bank mostly supports rank grassland dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Holcus lanatus}, with locally frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata} and scattered patches of {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica}. The river is partly shaded in places by overhanging trees ({\it Alnus glutinosa, Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus robur}) on the opposite bank. The northern most section of the river (TM3291) adjoins broadleaved woodland on the Norfolk side.

The bank top is generally over 1m above the water surface, although in the northern most section it is as low as 0.5m; land to the south is probably prone to flooding during the winter.

MANAGE:
Most of the riverbank appears to be subject to cattle grazing, although this is concentrated where access to the river is easiest. 

The generally well developed marginal vegetation provides a good area of cover for amphibians and birds.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: swallow, yellowhammer. Several rabbits seen. The tall herb/grass vegetation around the edges of the bracken contains numerous grasshoppers.
Most of the {\it Senecio jacobea} and {\it S. vulgaris} had been almost completely stripped of leaves by the orange and black caterpillars of the cinnibar moth ({\it Tyria jacobaeae}).

VEG:
The dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} is interspersed with occasional, scattered scrub ({\it Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Ulex europaeus}). Along the RUPPs (which are narrow tracks) there are patches of tall herb/grass vegetation dominated by {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}, plus occasional {\it Carduus nutans} and {\it Onopordum acanthium}.

A belt of land up to 30m wide along the track in the NW corner of the common has been disturbed in the last year - it supports ephemeral and ruderal vegetation. Species recorded include frequent {\it Anagalis arvensis, Cirsium arvense, Papaver rhoeas, Plantago major, Polygonum aviculare, Reseda luteola, Senecio jacobaea, S. vulgaris, Silene vulgaris, Sisymbrium officinale} and {\it Urtica dioica}, plus occasional {\it Echium} sp., {\it Malva sylvestris} and {\it Plantago lanceolata}.

In the SW corner of the common, there is a small area of {\it Bromus} sp. dominated grassland with abundant {\it Achillea millefolium} and {\it Galium verum}, plus frequent {\it Senecio jacobaea} and occasional {\it Conium maculatum, Verbascum thapsus} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys}.


VEG:
The improved field at the southern end of the common is enclosed by discontinuous hedgerows (up to 4m high and 3m wide) consisting of a mixture of {\it Acer campestre, Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., and {\it Ulmus procera}, with occasional {\it Euonymus europaeus}. The improved grassland sward extends up to the base of the hedge, but here it contains occasional {\it Galium verum}. A stream runs through this part of the common; no aquatic or marginal vegetation was observed. 

The arable field (wheat) was viewed through binoculars only.

MANAGE:
The presence of {\it Galium verum} and {\it Euonymus europaeus} along the boundary hedgerow at the southern end of the common suggests that the soil may be calcareous. A much more species diverse calcareous grassland may have existed on the site of the present improved grassland.

There is no evidence of recent hedgerow management.


FAUNA:
The folowing birds were noted: blackbird, blue tit, chaffinch, house sparrow, yellowhammer. The longer grass in the cattle grazed area at the eastern end of the common contains numerous grasshoppers. Several meadow brown an small tortioseshell butterflies were seen. Shells of the terrestrial snail {\it Cepea nemoralis} were found along the hedgerow along the northern boundary.

VEG:
The 3 most abundant species in the cattle grazed grassland at the eastern end of the common appear to be {\it Holcus lanatus, Hordeum secalinum} and {\it Lolium perenne}. There is also locally frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Dactylis glomerata, Phleum pratense, Poa} spp., {\it Achillea millefolium} and {\it Bellis perennis}, with occasional scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Sambucus nigra} and patches of {\it Cirsium arvense} and {\it Urtica dioica}. A scrubby {\it Crataegus monogyna/Sambucus nigra} hedge with occasional {\it Acer campestre} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} (coppiced) runs along the northern boundary of this part of the common.

On the remains of the actual castle fortifications, (which are now ridges up to about 4m high and 8m wide), the sward is shorter (less than 10cm high) and contains a greater diversity of herb species: abundant {\it Pilosella officinarum, Galium verum} and {\it Lotus corniculatus}, with frequent {\it Achillea millefolium, Bellis perennis} and {\it Trifolium dubium}, plus occasional {\it Prunella vulgaris}. These areas are too small to map separately.
 
To the west of the area described above, there is a belt of land used for allotment gardens. The remainder of the common is under arable cultivation (wheat was growing at the time of survey). A discontinuous, scrubby {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominated hedge, with frequent {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg, plus occasional {\it Bryonia dioica} and {\it Rosa} sp. runs along most of the length of the northern boundary. This hedgerow is fringed along the path with {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Urtica dioica}, with occasional {\it Armoracia rusticana}. Along the remaining length of CL boundary which encloses the arable field (viewed through binoculars), hedgerows appear to be sparse or absent.

MANAGE:
It would be desirable to avoid the use of herbicides and fertilizers on the cattle grazed grassland at the eastern end of the common if a greater diversity of herb species is to be encouraged.

The 10,560 scale OS map used for the CL register shows that all the land now under arable cultivation as allotment gardens. 

It is not clear if hedgerows once ran along the whole length of the CL boundary, but would be desirable to establish them were absent if finances allow, especially around the area under arable cultivation (western and southern sides).


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chaffinch, magpie.

VEG:
There are mature {\it Quercus robur} trees on the southern and western boundaries. Along the farm access track, there is a narrow verge supporting {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Holcus lanatus} with frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Heracleum sphondylium, Lamium album} and {\it Urtica dioica}. 
The field was being used to grow wheat at the time of survey.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: common gull, house sparrow, skylark, tern.

VEG:
The rank coastal grassland fringing the amenity grassland fairways on the golf course is dominated by {\it Elytrigia repens}, with frequent {\it Lolium perenne, Plantago coronopus, Trifolium dubium} and {\it T. repens} plus occasional {\it Silene alba}. 

There are two ponds on the golf course. No aquatic or marginal vegetation was seen in the southern pond at TM325368, which has stone banks. The pond to the north at TM326371 is fringed with {\it Phragmites australis}. Some building rubble has been dumped just to the west of this pond. At the northern end of the course, there is a large area of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} dominated grassland, with frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Elytrigia repens, Lolium perenne} and {\it Poa} spp., plus occasional {\it Hordeum secalinum, Phragmites australis, Anthriscus sylvestris, Lotus corniculatus} and {\it Vicia sativa}. The drains which cross this area are fringed with frequent {\it Scirpus maritimus} and {\it Urtica dioica}. A small area of {\it Phragmites australis} dominated swamp is situated along the northern boundary, below a flood defence embankment. Scattered {\it Populus alba} saplings have been planted on the course.

To the east of the promenade (off the common), the shingle beach supports scattered {\it Atriplex} spp., {\it Crambe maritima, Glaucium flavum, Glaux maritima} and the nationally scarce* {\it Lathyrus japonicus} subsp. {\it japonicus}. Close to the sea wall below the promenade, there is also scattered {\it Beta vulgaris, Lepidium latifolium} (nationally scarce*) and {\it Silene maritima}. On the highest areas of shingle (above the mean high water mark) there is abundant {\it Medicago sativa} with frequent {\it Melilotus officinalis, Plantago coronopus} and {\it Tripleurospermum maritimum}, plus occasional {\it Cakile maritima, Foeniculum} sp., {\it Lycium barbarum, Malva sylvestris, Sedum acre} and {\it S. anglicum}. Just to the SE of the Martello tower at TM328373, there is a tidal pond below the promenade footpath. It is fringed with abundant {\it Limonium} sp. and {\it Spartina} sp., plus occasional {\it Salicornia} sp. 

* Nationally scarce species are those occurring in between 16 and 100 10km squares in Britain (D.A.Pearman {\it et al} 'Scarce Plants in Britain', JNCC, 1994).

MANAGE:
Most of the common is managed as a golf course. The area occupied by the course may once have been saltmarsh with tidal creeks. It is unlikely that the drains fringed with {\it Scirpus maritimus} in the northern half of the common are still subject to regular tidal inundation because of the embankment along the northern boundary. It would be desirable to retain the surrounding areas of rank {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} dominated grassland and {\it Phragmites australis} swamp.

There is 1 rights entry for pasture for 1 unshod pony, but no evidence of recent grazing was seen.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, house sparrow, skylark, yellowhammer. Several meadow brown, small copper and small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen. The uncut grass contains numerous grasshoppers.

VEG:
Most of the grassland is dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} with locally frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris, Arrhenatherum elatius, Cynosurus cristatus, Dactylis glomerata, Elytrigia repens, Lolium perenne, Achillea millefolium, Centaurea nigra} and {\it Convolvulus arvensis}, plus occasional {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Prunella vulgaris}. 

In the southern half of the common, there is a distinct area of more acidic grassland dominated by {\it Festuca} sp., with locally frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris, Cynosurus cristatus, Holcus lanatus, Convolvulus arvensis} and {\it Trifolium campestre}, plus occasional {\it Phleum pratense} and {\it Achillea millefolium}. This area has been recorded as semi-improved acid grassland (B12). 

The main area of grassland described above is fringed with areas of poor semi-improved grassland and amenity grassland. {\it Salix alba} saplings have been planted along the northern boundary between Lower Farm and the B1078. 

The verges along the B1078 are mostly situated outside residential properties and managed as amenity grassland. There are some good sections of hedgerow where fields adjoin the common between residential properties.  These are generally up to 2m high and wide and dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} with frequent {\it Prunus spinosa, Rosa} sp, {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and  {\it Ulmus procera}. Just east of the 66m spot height (TM065522), there is an exceptionally wide (8 to 10m) section dominated by {\it Prunus spinosa}, with frequent {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., and coppiced {\it Acer campestre} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior. Aesculus hippocastanum} saplings have been planted on the amenity grassland between the hedgerow and the road. 

A small pond (just inside the CL boundary) at TM067525 is fringed with stands of {\it Typha latifolia}, with frequent {\it Glyceria fluitans} and {\it Juncus inflexus}, and dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} on the bank.

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent livestock grazing was found. The main area of grassland was uncut and appears to be being managed for hay production; some grazing may take place on the autumn aftermath or during the winter. A notice at the SE corner states that the common is in the Countryside Premium Scheme.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, song thrush, swallow, yellowhammer. Several small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen.

The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

"Cornard Mere attracts considerable numbers of over-wintering snipe and provides a habitat for a variety of insects, including an uncommon sawfly."

The reed beds hold important numbers of overwintering corn and reed buntings and pied wagtails. Common frog, common lizard, harvest mouse and grass snake also occur. 4 species of dragonfly, 18 species of butterfly and 150 species of moth have been recorded (not specified, SWT reserve management plan, 1994).

VEG:
Only a very limited survey was carried out from the footpaths in the southern half of the common. 

There are extensive areas of swamp vegetation which are mostly dominated by {\it Glyceria maxima; Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Phragmites australis} are locally dominant. The ground was not saturated at the time of survey. Growing within the swamp vegetation, there is locally abundant {\it Galium aparine, Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Urtica dioica} with locally frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Elytrigia repens, Holcus lanatus, Carduus acanthoides, Cirsium arvense, Eupatorium cannabinum, Calystegia sepium, Lactuca serriola, Lycopus europaeus, Lysimachia vulgaris} and {\it Mentha aquatica}, plus occasional {\it Iris pseudacorus, Linaria vulgaris, Senecio jacobaea, Silene alba} and {\it Vicia cracca}. On its southern side, the swamp is fringed with rank {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} dominated grassland.   

Along the southern boundary, there is a narrow but dense belt of scrub dominated by {\it Prunus spinosa} with locally dominant {\it Salix} spp. (including {\it S. cinerea} and {\it S. viminalis}) plus locally frequent {\it Bryonia dioica} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and occasional {\it Sambucus nigra}.   

No further survey was carried out. The following information is an extract from the SSSI citation:

"Cornard Mere comprises a seasonally flooded area of fen, species-rich ruderal herb vegetation, woodland, scrub and neutral grassland occupying a shallow basin on a mixture of peat and glacial sands. Traditional management with regular cutting maintains a varied flora with many species typical of wetland communities.

Tall fen vegetation dominated by {\it Glyceria maxima} and {\it Phragmites australis} occupies much of the site. Associated species include {\it Lysimachia vulgaris, Filipendula ulmaria, Eupatorium cannabinum} and {\it Iris pseudacorus}. There are also sizeable stands of {\it Thalictrum flavum} and {\it Rumex hydrolapathum} and a small population of {\it Menyanthes trifoliata} and {\it Potentilla palustris}.

A species-rich inundation community has developed on drier ground. {\it Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} are abundant together with a variety of rushes and sedges. Herb species present include {\it Mentha aquatica, Lycopus europaeus, Scutellaria galericulata, Lychnis flos-cuculi} and {\it Dactylorhiza praetermissa}.

Outlying parts of the site support a species-rich ruderal herb community fringed by {\it Salix capraea} scrub. {\it Urtica dioica, Epilobium hirsutum, Pulicaria dysenterica} and {\it Lamium album} are most abundant. Associated species include {\it Angelica sylvestris, Stachys palustris, Galium uliginosum} and {\it Linaria vulgaris}.

{\it Salix} spp. dominate much of the woodland, merging into young {\it Quercus} sp., {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Corylus avellana} on drier ground. The ground flora is dominated largely by {\it Urtica dioica}, but in wetter areas {\it Humulus lupulus, Cardamine pratensis, Solanum dulcamara} and {\it Dryopteris filix-mas} are frequent.

Much of the unimproved neutral grassland is mown to form a path along the southern boundary. It consists mainly of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}."

The north-eastern part of the common has reverted from recent ploughing and now supports a dense stand of {\it Juncus subnodulosus} with marginal grassland which has a strong ruderal element (E. Anglian Valley Fen Dossier). The local {\it Carex rostrata} and {\it C. elata} have also been recorded. The local species {\it Hottonia palustris, Carex pseudocyperus} and {\it Berula erecta} have been recorded from pools within the willow carr formed by fallen trees (SWT reserve management plan, 1994).

MANAGE:
Cornard Mere has undergone drainage with the digging of ditches and was grazed by cattle. The date when grazing ceased is not known but it is probably at least 40 years ago. The north-eastern section was ploughed in 1984 and occasionally previous to this, since when the fen vegetation has naturally regenerated. The location of the 'Mere' appears to have varied through time according to a variety of maps dating from the eighteenth century.

Cornard Mere has been managed as a nature reserve by SWT since 1973 and the Trust purchased the north-eastern part in 1987. Management consists largely of mowing with the cuttings removed. Paths are regularly mown. 

Flooding by nutrient rich water from surrounding arable land and roads has promoted highly fertile conditions, in turn promoting prolific {\it Glyceria} and {\it Phragmites} growth and suppressing the associated flora. The lack of management has increased the rankness of the reedbeds and allowed the development of litter. The fen areas have become progressively drier and are increasingly losing their wetland character. This has also allowed the development of scrub from the core areas. The drying peat has become oxidised and is releasing large quantities of nutrients. The degraded peat has become an unsuitable substrate for short, species-rich fen. The effects of abstraction have reduced the water table over large areas of the site, further promoting eutrophic and species-poor communities, encouraging ruderals and reducing the range and abundance of wetland plants. Through all of the above processes, nearly all of the open water stages of the hydrosere have been lost. 

The possibilities of reintroducing grazing to the eastern part of the site are discussed in the management plan. In the meantime, areas of greatest species-richness will be mown. Annual assesment of the mere is to take place in summer and the vegetation cut when necessary. A second priority will be summer mowing of a strip around the margins of the mere to prevent encroachment of rank fen vegetation and to restore short species-rich fen vegetation. Areas of {\it Phragmites} fen could be mown on a longer rotation (every 3-4 years in January/February) to improve the structure for birds. Some areas will be left unmown. Scrub control is also proposed including regular seedling pulls with some areas to be cut and others retained. Locallised peat digging is recommended on the western part of the common to remove the oxidised peat allowing the hydrosere to begin again with open water. Digging out of mere to ensure retention of water through the summer and piping in water to ameliorate the problems of water quality are recommended. In compensation for the alleged dewatering of the reserve by the nearby abstraction borehole operated by Anglian Water Plc., AW have offered to supply water to the site for surface feeding to the Mere. The dry, fringing grassland is not species rich and therefore of low priority for managment. However, the Trust is required by covenant to keep mown a 5m strip along the perimeter to prevent seeding of ruderals (to be carried out at the end of June). The area of {\it Cirsium arvense} should also be topped at the same time to prevent seeding. The footpaths are to be cut twice per year (SWT reserve management plan, 1994).


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chaffinch, house sparrow, moorhen. The long grass contains numerous grasshoppers.

VEG:
The grassland is situated on a north facing slope and dominated by {\it Agrostis} sp. with locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Hypochaeris} sp., plus occasional {\it Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Lotus corniculatus}. 

There are 2 coppiced (not recent) {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees in the centre of the common. Along the eastern boundary, there is a continuous {\it Crataegus monogyna/Ulmus procera} hedge up to 3m high and 2.5m wide.

The pond at the northern end of the common contains frequent {\it Nymphaea alba} (about 50 per cent of water surface covered), and is fringed with dense stands of {\it Sparganium erectum} and {\it Typha latifolia} with frequent {\it Mentha aquatica} plus occasional {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Veronica beccabunga}. The banks support dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} with frequent {\it Urtica dioica}. The pond is partly shaded by an overhanging weeping willow.

MANAGE:
No evidence of recent livestock grazing was seen. The sward was 20 to 40cm high at the time of survey; it is probably cut in late summer.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, skylark, woodpigeon (Maidscross Hill only), yellowhammer. Rabbits were seen at Maidscross Hill. 

As no detailed survey was carried out, the following information is reproduced from the SSSI citations for (1) Lakenheath Warren and (2) Maidscross Hill:

(1) "Of the 50 species of breeding birds, the most important include long-eared owl, short-eared owl, nightjar, curlew, wheatear, stonechat, whinchat and grasshopper warbler. Lakenheath Warren is also a regular winter roost for six to eleven hen harriers."

(2) There is no faunal information on the SSSI citation. The Phase 1 survey mentions that the site supports breeding red-backed shrike.

VEG:
No detailed survey was carried out. The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citations for (1) Lakenheath Warren and (2) Maidscross Hill:

(1) Lakenheath Warren is the largest heathland site remaining in the Suffolk Breckland. It is the only area containing the full range of Breck grass-heath types, which reflects the wide range of soil pH and is the type locality for Dr Watt's classic studies on these habitats. The site has a well documented history of use as a rabbit warren and an area of sheep grazing from the mid 13th century until the second World War. The Warren supports an assemblage of rare, notable and uncommon plants as well as a variety of breeding birds typical of lowland heath.

The grassland types range from calcareous through to acidic. All are unimproved and have had little grazing pressure in recent years. {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Carex arenaria} and invasive trees such as {\it Pinus sylvestris} all dominate substantial parts of the site. {\it Festuca ovina}, with some {\it Agrostis} spp. are abundant across the full range of grasslands. The different grassland types are distinguished by the occurrence and abundance of the various associated species.

Calcareous grassland is the least widespread and is the location of many of the rare and uncommon plants. South-west of Warren Lodge is situated a small but floristically rich area that has highly calcareous shallow soil where some bare chalk is exposed. {\it Botrychium lunaria, Silene otites} (nationally rare*), {\it Galium parisiense} (nationally scarce**) and {\it Carex ericetorum} (nationally scarce**) are found here as well as an unusual range of lichens (over a dozen species including several rare ones) and mosses. The remaining calcareous grassland has a continuous vegetation cover. Species diversity is highest here (80 vascular plants) and many calcicolous species such as {\it Linum catharticum, Astragalus danicus,  Arabis hirsuta, Cirsium acaule} and {\it Briza media} are evident.

The neutral and acidic grasslands constitute the main grassy components of the Warren. Grasses grow more vigorously here. There is a reduction in the species diversity and abundance of herbs in the neutral grassland and this area is characterised by the abundance of {\it Campanula rotundifolia, Galium verum, Carex caryophyllea} and the moss {\it Pleurozium schreberi}. {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} is dominant over wide areas of acidic grassland and {\it Carex arenaria} is abundant here. {\it Rumex acetosella, Teesdalia nudicaulis, Luzula campestris} and lichens {\it Cladonia impexa, C. arbuscula} and {\it Cetraria aculeata} are amongst the other species frequently found.

At the northern and western edges of the Warren and at other small localised sites, a mosaic lichen bryophyte and {\it Agrostis/Festuca} grassland is found. The lichen {\it Cladonia sylvatica} is dominant here and few vascular plants occur although large patches of {\it Galium saxatile} are typical. Patches of {\it Calluna vulgaris} dominated vegetation occur around the edge of the Warren, particularly prominent at the north-west corner.

...The rare and notable plant species occurring on the Warren, other than those already mentioned include {\it Artemisia campestris, Scleranthus perennis, Veronica verna, V. praecox, Thymus serpyllum} and {\it Phleum phleoides} (all nationally rare*) and {\it Medicago minima, Minuartia hybrida, Crassula tillaea, Silene conica, Trifolium suffocatum} and {\it Medicago sativa} ssp. {\it falcata} (all nationally scarce**). 

(2) A sizeable area of very dry Breck grassland on a range of soil types. Past gravel workings have left areas of bare ground which are at various stages of recolonisation. Lack of grazing has permitted bracken and gorse scrub to invade some areas. Four nationally rare and one locally rare plant species occur on this site.

Maidscross Hill contains well developed areas of calcareous and acidic grassland, as well as some intermediate areas. Much of the acidic grassland is dominated by vigorous {\it Carex arenaria} with relatively few other species. The calcareous grassland is shorter, though somewhat tussocky and is dominated by {\it Festuca rubra, Agrostis} spp. and {\it Koeleria macrantha}. It contains many other associated species inclucing {\it Galium verum, Thalictrum minus, Lotus corniculatus} and {\it Trifolium campestre}.
The intermediate areas are dominated by coarser grasses such as {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Phleum pratense}. Despite this, they contain a good range of associated species including {\it Trisetum flavescens, Daucus carota, Vicia tetrasperma} and {\it Crepis capillaris}. In some parts, weed species {\it Galium aparine, Melilotus alba, Urtica dioica} and {\it Pastinaca sativa} have invaded this grassland.

Small scale gravel extraction has been practised on Maidscross Hill for many years. The more recently worked areas are still largely bare but with a great variety of small annual plants growing on them, including {\it Phleum arenarium, Arenaria serpyllifolia} and the nationally scarce** {\it Silene conica} and {\it Medicago minima}. {\it Carex arenaria} is invading some of these areas. The older gravel workings, particularly the tops of mounds and other very well drained areas support lichens and moss-dominated heath with small herbs such as {\it Silene conica}.

The rare plant species found on Maidscross Hill are associated with the more open, calcareous grassland. They are {\it Thymus serpyllum, Silene otites} and {\it Muscari neglectum} (all nationally rare*) and {\it Medicago sativa} ssp. {\it falcata} (nationally scarce**).

* Nationally rare species are those occurring in 15 or fewer 10km squares in Britain.

** Nationally scarce species are those occurring in between 16 and 100 10km squares in Britain (D.A.Pearman {\it et al} 'Scarce Plants in Britain', JNCC, 1994).

MANAGE:
No management observations were made during the brief site visit. The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citations:

Lakenheath Warren has a well documented history of use as a rabbit warren and an area of sheep grazing from the mid 13th century until the second World War. The citation mentions that the grassland areas have had little grazing pressure in recent years and {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Carex arenaria} and invasive trees such as {\it Pinus sylvestris} all dominate substantial parts of the site.

Maidscross Hill is not currently grazed, except by rabbits, and the lack of sufficient grazing has allowed bracken and considerable amounts of {\it Ulex} sp. and {\it Crataegus monogyna} scrub to invade. Although this has meant the loss of some grassland the scrub has provided additional nesting habitat for birds (particularly for red-backed shrike). Small scale gravel extraction has been practiced on Maidscross Hill for many years showing a range of stages of colonisation. 

No other information was collated.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, moorhen, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. 1 comma butterfly was seen. The pond has been stocked with goldfish.

VEG:
The woodland is dominated by standard {\it Quercus robur} (trunk diameters are mostly in the range 30 to 50cm at chest height), with occasional {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Populus tremula}. There is some regeneration of {\it Q. robur} and {\it P. tremula} (scattered saplings). There is an open  understorey of scattered {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra} with occasional {\it Euonymus europaeus, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Rosa} sp. Along the western boundary, there is a dense (but discontinuous) hedge dominated by {\it Prunus spinosa} with occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Salix} sp.

The woodland groundflora is dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with locally frequent {\it Holcus mollis, Anthriscus sylvestris, Hedera helix, Galium aparine, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Glechoma hederacea}, plus occasional {\it Juncus effusus, Poa nemoralis, Heracleum sphondylium, Hypericum} sp. and {\it Urtica dioica}.
 
Adjoining the northern end of the common, there is a large pond surrounded by a {\it Crataegus monogyna/Malus} sp. hedge (2 to 3m high). The pond is fringed with  abundant {\it Mentha aquatica} and occasional stands of {\it Typha latifolia}. The bank supports dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} plus occasional {\it Heracleum sphondylium}. There are also occasional {\it Acer campestre} and {\it Ulmus} sp. trees on the bank, which partly shade the pond.

MANAGE:
The hedgerow is probably trimmed at least once a year along its western side. No evidence of recent planting or coppicing was seen in the woodland. Some of the {\it Corylus avellana} at the southern end may have been coppiced in the past. It would be desirable to leave any standing or fallen deadwood {\it in situ} where possible.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chaffinch, house sparrow. Several large white and ringlet butterflies seen. The small area of tall semi-improved neutral grassland contains numerous grasshoppers.

VEG:
The dense scrub and tall herb vegetation is situated on a steep south facing slope above the road. The scrub is a mixture of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus}, with scattered {\it Quercus robur, Salix alba} and {\it Ulmus procera} saplings. The tall herb vegetation is situated higher on the slope and is dominated by {\it Urtica dioica}. A scrubby {\it Prunus spinosa} dominated hedge runs along the northern boundary.

South of the road, most of the land is amenity grassland, fringed with mature standard {\it Salix alba} trees along the southern boundary, where there is a stream. The banks support dense {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Cirsium arvense}, with scattered {\it Salix viminalis} (some coppiced). The small area of tall semi-improved neutral grassland is situated in the southern half of this section. It is dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Holcus lanatus}, with frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Carex hirta, Lathyrus pratensis, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Vicia sativa} plus occasional {\it Centaurea nigra, Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Hypericum tetrapterum}.

MANAGE:
No ongoing management of the area north of the road apparent. The scrub provides an attractive area of cover for birds and small mammals; in time, it will probably spread over the existing areas of tall herb vegetation. 

South of the road, it would be desirable to retain the small area of tall semi-improved neutral grassland adjacent to the amenity grassland. This area extends from the stream bank and could provide habitat attractive to invertebrates and small mammals. This grassland could be managed in a similar way to a hay meadow - ie cut in the late summer or early autumn.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: song thrush, swallow, yellowhammer.

VEG:
The common was viewed from the access gate along the B1063, using binoculars.

The grassland appears to be a mixture of {\it Alopecurus pratensis} and {\it Lolium perenne} with abundant {\it Galium verum} plus locally frequent {\it Holcus lanatus} and occasional {\it Papaver rhoeas} and {\it Senecio jacobaea}. There is scattered {\it Prunus spinosa} scrub in the western half. The grassland is enclosed by scrubby hedgerows (over 10m wide on the northern boundary) - these are a mixture of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ulmus procera}, with occasional {\it Rosa} sp. and {\it Salix} sp. Along the inside edge of the hedgerows, the grassland described above frequently grades into a strip of rank grassland ({\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus lanatus}) and tall herb vegetation ({\it Heracleum sphondylium, Urtica dioica}).

MANAGE:
Used for grazing. It would be desirable to retain the hedgerows as they provide a valuable area of cover for birds and small mammals in a predominantly open, arable landscape.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, magpie, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Several small tortoiseshell and meadow brown butterflies were seen, also several rabbits.

VEG:
Only the northern quarter of the common was surveyed, the remaining area was viewed through binoculars.

The sward is dominated by {\it Lolium perenne}, with frequent {\it Holcus lanatus, Poa} spp., {\it Trifolium campestre} and {\it T. repens}, plus occasional {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}. There are scattered patches of {\it Cirsium} sp. and {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Hordeum} sp. 

The remaining grassland appears to have a similar composition (when viewed through binoculars), but on-site survey is needed to confirm this. The land near the river may be wetter and have a more diverse species composition. 

The external boundary hedgerows visible through binoculars appear to be up to 3m high and wide and dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} with occasional {\it Salix alba}.

The stream along the northern boundary of the common is mostly fenced from livestock. It is fringed with dense stands of {\it Glyceria maxima} with frequent {\it Veronica beccabunga} and {\it Myosotis scorpioides}.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, house sparrow, swallow.

VEG:
The common borders arable fields on both sides of the road. Along the eastern side there is a trimmed boundary hedge composed of {\it Acer campestre, Cornus sanguinea, Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., with occasional {\it Tamus communis}. A shallow ditch running along the base of the hedge contains abundant {\it Epilobium hirsutum}.

The grass verges are between 5 and 10m wide and had been cut at the time of survey and the cuttings removed. The sward is a mixture of {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne} and {\it Poa} spp. No single species appears to be dominant. Herb species noted include locally frequent {\it Centaurea nigra, Cirsium arvense, Galium verum, Glechoma hederacea, Heracleum sphondylium, Hypericum} sp., {\it Lathyrus pratensis, Leucanthemum vulgare, Lotus corniculatus, Pulicaria dysenterica, Ranunculus acris, R. repens, Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Trifolium pratense, T. repens} and {\it Urtica dioica}, with occasional {\it Armoracia rusticana, Scabiosa} sp., {\it Silene alba, Symphytum x uplandicum} and {\it Vicia cracca}.

MANAGE:
The grass verges and hedgerow are cut at least once a year.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blue tit, chaffinch, house sparrow, moorhen, mute swan, swallow, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Longer areas of grass contain numerous grasshoppers. Several large white, meadow brown and small tortoiseshell butterflies seen, and several blue tailed damselflies ({\it Ischnura elegans}).

VEG:
The grassland has a similar species composition to that described for CL60, but the abundance of each species is different. {\it Lolium perenne} appears to be dominant and {\it Carex hirta} occurs only occasionally (near the R. Stour). Sward height is generally less than 15cm. 

The drain which runs NE-SW across the common is fenced from livestock and contains frequent {\it Apium nodiflorum, Glyceria maxima} and {\it Phragmites australis}. The shallow banks support dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica}, with frequent {\it Calystegia sepium, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Symphytum} sp., plus occasional {\it Alnus glutinosa} saplings.  

Where the River Stour adjoins this common, it has similar marginal vegetation to the section described in the report for CL60. The open water contains frequent {\it Nuphar lutea} and occasional {\it Sparganium emersum}.

At the northern end of the common, there is a small area of fenced, semi-matural {\it Betula pendula} plantation along an access road (Brundon Lane). It also contains frequent {\it Alnus glutinosa, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} (young trees), which appear to have spread by natural seeding. {\it Prunus} sp. trees have been planted along the access road. The understorey consists of occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Rosa} sp. The groundflora is dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., with abundant {\it Urtica dioica}. There is also a small plantation to the east of Brundon Lane known as the Geoff Kisby Spinney. A notice indicates that it was planted in memory of Mr Kisby and to replace trees lost in the October 1987 storm. Species recorded include {\it Alnus glutinosa, Salix alba} and {\it S. fragilis}.

MANAGE:
Used for cattle grazing. The common is probably prone to flooding during the winter.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, moorhen, mute swan, swallow, woodpigeon. Longer areas of grass contain numerous grasshoppers. Several large white, meadow brown and small tortoiseshell butterflies seen, and several blue tailed damselflies ({\it Ischnura elegans}).

VEG:
The grassland has a similar species composition to that described for CL60, but the abundance of each species is different. {\it Lolium perenne} appears to be dominant and {\it Carex hirta} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} occur only occasionally (near the R. Stour). Sward height is generally less than 15cm. There is also occasional {\it Carduus nutans}.     

The stream which runs along the western boundary contains frequent {\it Sparganium emersum} and is fringed with abundant {\it Glyceria fluitans} and frequent {\it Agrostis stolonifera, Phalaris arundinacea, Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum} and {\it Sparganium erectum}, plus occasional {\it Juncus articulatus, J. inflexus} and {\it Schoenoplectus lacustris}. The banks support dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica} with locally frequent {\it Elytrigia repens, Cirsium arvense, Conium maculatum} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium}, plus occasional {\it Lythrum salicaria}. They are fenced off from livestock. The tall herb vegetation extends over the bank top and onto the floodplain at TL867418 where it surrounds a fenced pond (too small to map) which contains {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica, Butomus umbellatus} and {\it Typha latifolia}. 

Where the River Stour adjoins this common, it has similar marginal vegetation to the section described in the report for CL60. The open water contains frequent {\it Nuphar lutea} and occasional {\it Sparganium emersum}.

MANAGE:
Used for cattle grazing. The water surface in the River Stour was less than 1m below the level of the surrounding land, which must be prone to flooding during the winter.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, swallow, woodpigeon. Longer areas of grass contain numerous grasshoppers. Several large white, meadow brown and small tortoiseshell butterflies seen, and several blue-tailed damselflies ({\it Ischnura elegans}). The water in the drains is slow flowing but clear, and contains numerous fish up to about 15cm in length (species not determined).

VEG:
The three most abundant grass species in the sward appear to be {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Cynosurus cristatus} and {\it Lolium perenne}. There is locally frequent {\it Carex hirta, Deschampsia cespitosa, Holcus lanatus, Poa} spp., {\it Achillea millefolium, Ranunculus acris, R. repens}, and {\it Trifolium repens}, plus occasional {\it Hordeum murinum} and {\it Geranium dissectum}. Sward height is generally less than 20cm.

Drainage channels (about 2m wide) branching from the River Stour are fringed with abundant {\it Glyceria fluitans} and frequent {\it Agrostis stolonifera}, plus occasional {\it Juncus articulatus} and {\it J. inflexus}. Along the banks of the R. Stour, there are dense stands of {\it Glyceria maxima}, with locally frequent {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Veronica beccabunga}, plus occasional {\it Juncus articulatus, J. inflexus, Schoenoplectus lacustris} and {\it Typha latifolia}. {\it Salix alba} saplings have been planted along the bank at TL866410. It is intended that these will be managed as pollards.

At the northern end of the common (above a small dam), there is an area of shallow, open water which is used by cattle. The banks are heavily trampled and support occasional {\it Ranunculus sceleratus}.

MANAGE:
Used for cattle grazing. The water surface in the drain was less than 40cm below the level of the surrounding land, which must be prone to flooding during the winter.


FAUNA:
Grayling, stonechat, woodlark, nightjar (recorded during site visit or from noticeboard?). Grasshoppers were abundant.

Further information on the fauna of the Sutton and Hollesley Heaths SSSI can be found under the entry for CL40 (Sutton Common).

Upper Hollesley Common (including an additional area to the east of the common) is listed on the Invertebrate Site Register with some scarce species of spider having been recorded eg. {\it Philodromus collinus} (most often recorded from pine trees on heaths), {\it Zelotes petrensis} and {\it Hysosinga albovittata}. The dung beetle {\it Aphodius distinctus} has also been reported, typically a species of open dry grassland grazed by sheep. It was also noted that it has possibly lost much of its interesting heathland invertebrate fauna due to coniferisation and scrub encroachment. However, further survey of other invertebrate Orders was suggested to be possibly worthwhile.

VEG:
Upper Hollesley Common supports areas of mature {\it Calluna vulgaris} with frequent scattered {\it Betula pendula} saplings and locally frequent {\it Erica cinerea} and {\it Pinus} sp. saplings. There are also extensive areas of {\it Pinus} sp. plantation, mostly almost mature. Areas support tall, dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, locally over mature {\it Calluna}. Occasional {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Geum urbanum} were recorded along dry ditches bordering tracks. Wide rides (20-30m) in the plantation support young to semi-mature {\it Calluna}. {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Glechoma hederacea} are locally frequent along footpaths with occasional {\it Teucrium scorodonia, Senecio jacobaea/vulgaris} and {\it Polytrichum} sp. Stands of {\it Betula} frequently fringe the areas of {\it Pinus} sp. 

Upper Hollesley Common lies within the Sutton and Hollesley Heaths SSSI. General information on the SSSI has already been given under the entry for CL40 (Sutton Common).  

In addition to the main NVC communities described under CL40 an area of W16/H1 was recorded on this common at TM337472. This has arisen where scrub or secondary woodland of {\it Pinus nigra} ssp. {\it laricio}, {\it Betula pendula} or {\it Quercus robur} has grown up on heathland. Many of the heathland characteristics such as high {\it Calluna vulgaris} cover remain. This is an intermediate between heathland and its replacement by woodland (N. Sibbett, 1994).

MANAGE:
There has been some recent excavation of the dry ditches bordering the tracks. There are some cleared areas within the plantation with good cover of {\it Calluna} but with much {\it Betula pendula} regeneration or {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. Control of {\it P. aquilinum} required? Grazing is controlled by internal fencing. 

Upper Hollesley Common is managed by the Suffolk Wildlife Trust as part of the Sandlings Heaths project. The Sandlings heaths once stretched from Ipswich to Lowestoft. 80 per cent has been planted or built on in the 20th century. 

In comparing the findings ot the 1993 NVC survey and a previous survey 1983-85 (N. Sibbett, 1994) for Upper Hollesley common (including an area to the east of the common) there had been an increase of about 50 percent in the area of heathland with a concurrent decrease in bracken cover. Acid grassland and woodland seemed to be stable. Much of the planted woodland was damaged in storms in 1987, but areas of fallen trees and canopy gaps were still recorded as woodland even though the dominant living species was {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. One tiny area of plantation has been deliberately felled to restore heathland.

The following management objectives are listed in the 1989 Management Plan:

Long term aims:

1) To maintain Upper Hollesley as heathland which is a historic landscape feature of the Suffolk Coastal Area.

2) To maintain and enhance the biological interest of the dry lowland heath ecosystems and conserve the flora and fauna of the common.

3) To maintain and enhance the Common as a place of informal recreation for this and future generations of commoners and parishoners.

Short-term aims:

1) To combat public abuses such as dumping, indiscriminate parking and fires.

2) To encourage and manage the heather and increase the area of acid grassland i.e. manage for cyclic regeneration.

3) To control the further spread of bracken and trees i.e. prevent and reverse succession.

4) To monitor wildlife populations and research past management history.

Management proposals include the control/reversal of succession (i.e. bracken and scrub/tree invasion of the heathland areas) to include bracken control, removal/swiping of tree seedlings, thinning of trees leaving areas of mature woodland and the management for cyclic succession including heather cutting, possible local grazing in temporary fencing, a trial burn and mowing grassland with the removal of cuttings to prevent it from becoming rank. 

This area is in Countryside Stewardship along with Sutton Common and Lower Hollesley Common.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, house sparrow, swallow, woodpigeon. Longer areas of grass contain numerous grasshoppers. Several large white, meadow brown and small tortoiseshell butterflies seen, and several blue-tailed damselflies ({\it Ischnura elegans}).

VEG:
The grassland is dominated by {\it Lolium perenne}, with locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Hordeum murinum, Phleum pratense, Poa} spp., {\it Achillea millefolium, Ranunculus acris, R. repens} and {\it Trifolium repens}. Sward height is generally less than 20cm. There are scattered patches of {\it Carduus nutans, Cirsium arvense} and {\it Urtica dioica}.

The disused railway embankment (which is outside the CL boundary) supports {\it Quercus robur} dominated woodland with an understorey of frequent {\it Crataegus monogyna}. Where the canopy is more open, there are dense stands of {\it Urtica dioica}.

MANAGE:
Used for cattle grazing. The eastern half of the common is probably prone to flooding during the winter.


FAUNA:
Yellowhammer, chiffchaff and an abundance of grasshoppers were recorded during the site visit.

Further information on the fauna of the Sutton and Hollesley Heaths SSSI can be found under the entry for CL40 (Sutton Common).

Lower Hollesley Common is listed on the Invertebrate Site Register. The area included covers the area of the common east of the minor road which bisects it and fields to the north east of the common. The area supports a small colony of Silver-studded blue, present though just outside the Trust Reserve. The recorded Beetle fauna suggests that there may still be some interest present within dead wood habitats. The record of the bark beetle {\it Pityophthorus lichtensteini} associated with pine is unconfirmed. The Rosy Marbled Moth is a rare species of wet heaths in the south. Further survey was recommended.

VEG:
Lower Hollesley common is similar to CLs 40 and 61 but with extensive areas of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scattered {\it Ulex europaeus, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Pinus} sp. There is well developed {\it Calluna vulgaris} heath in the central area with locally frequent {\it Erica cinerea}. {\it Teucrium scorodonia} occurs along the roadside. There is an area of {\it Betula/Pinus} woodland at the northern end with {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and locally frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Abundant {\it Rumex acetosella} and {\it Campylopus introflexus} were recorded along the paths. The {\it Calluna} and {\it Erica cinera} is mostly mature and 20-40cm tall (max. 50cm). Other species recorded include locally abundant {\it Festuca rubra?} and locally frequent {\it Galium saxatile}. {\it Filago} sp., {\it Bromus hordaceous, Hypochaeris radicata, Galium verum} and {\it Spergula arvensis?} were occasional along tracks and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} locally frequent. 

Lower Hollesley Common lies within the Sutton and Hollesley Heaths SSSI. General information on the SSSI has already been given under the entry for CL40 (Sutton Common).  

The 1993 NVC survey (N. Sibbett) identified an additional two communities on this part of the common to those already described for CL40. At TM350457 is an area of H8 {\it Calluna vulgaris-Ulex gallii} heathland and at TM352458 a strip of W23 {\it Ulex europaeus-Rubus fruticosus} scrub. The former community is characterised by bushes of {\it Ulex gallii} with {\it Erica cinerea} as well as {\it Calluna vulgaris}. {\it Pinus sylvestris} and {\it Betula pendula} seedlings were also found. {\it U. gallii}, and this community, is usually found in south-western England and Wales, with just a few locations on the E. Anglian coast. The W23 is dominated by {\it Ulex europaeus} or {\it Cytisus scoparius}. {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and/or {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. are also found within the bushes and some remnant {\it Calluna vulgaris}. {\it U. europaeus} and {\it C. scoparius} generally grow on ungrazed heath and can be a valuable addition to the wildlife value of a site.

MANAGE:
No management observations were made during the brief site visit. This common is managed by the Suffolk Wildlife Trust along with Upper Hollesley Common. In comparing the 1993 NVC survey of Lower Hollesley Common (including a couple of areas to the west of the common) with previous survey information 1983-85, the measured area of heathland has increased and there may have been a small increase in woodland cover. Bracken cover has declined by about one third, whereas acid grassland has remained stable. The management objectives and proposals for this common are the same as for CL61 and the common is under Countryside Stewardship.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, house sparrow, pheasant, swallow.  Several small tortoiseshell butterflies seen. The long grass contains numerous grasshoppers.

VEG:
The poor semi-improved grassland is dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} (sward height 40 to 80cm) with locally frequent {\it Cirsium arvense, Galeopsis tetrahit, Galium aparine, Ranunculus repens, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Urtica dioica}, plus occasional {\it Carduus nutans}. 

In the central area of the common a moat (8 to 15m wide) has been excavated. The out-take from the excavation has been used to form a ridge 2 to 4m high around the moat. On its western side, the ridge supports {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum/Holcus lanatus} dominated grassland with abundant {\it Achillea millefolium} plus locally frequent {\it Carex arenaria} and {\it Rumex acetosa}, and occasional {\it Galium verum}. The remainder of the bank, and most of the south eastern half of the common supports dense, young {\it Betula pendula} dominated woodland with scattered areas of {\it Salix} spp. dominated scrub and occasional young {\it Quercus robur}. Trunk diameters are generally less than 8cm at chest height. There are a few mature standard {\it Q. robur} trees near the southern boundary, and peripheral stands of dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (mostly too small to map).

The moat itself contains dense stands of {\it Phragmites australis} with very little open water. There is also occasional {\it Carex acutiformis} and {\it Juncus effusus}.

MANAGE:
The common appeared to be ungrazed, although it is possible that some grazing takes place over the winter. No other ongoing management apparent.


FAUNA:
The following birds were seen: chaffinch, house sparrow.

VEG:
Wheat was being grown on the arable land to the north of the minor public road; the verge supports a narrow belt of tall grass/herb vegetation. Species recorded include frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Artemisia vulgaris} agg., {\it Sisymbrium officinale, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Urtica dioica} with occasional {\it Papaver rhoeas}. The poor semi-improved grassland to the south of the road had been mown within the last three weeks.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, common gull.

VEG:
The coastal grassland is generally patchy and situated along the promenade and access tracks to residential properties. It is mostly dominated by {\it Elytrigia atherica}, with locally frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Elytrigia repens, Lolium perenne, Poa} spp., {\it Atriplex} spp., {\it Lepidium latifolium} (nationally scarce*), {\it Lotus corniculatus, Malva sylvestris, Medicago sativa, Melilotus officinalis, Plantago coronopus, Silene maritima, Trifolium dubium, T. repens} and {\it Tripleurospermum maritima}, plus occasional {\it Hordeum secalinum, Anthriscus sylvestris, Sedum acre, S. anglicum, Urtica dioica} and {\it Vicia sativa}.

There is very little vegetation in the area used as a boat yard, except for peripheral patches (too small to map) of coastal grassland and saltmarsh.  

The shingle vegetation is described under the entry for the adjoining CL20.

* Nationally scarce species are those occurring in between 16 and 100 10km squares in Britain (D.A.Pearman {\it et al} 'Scarce Plants in Britain', JNCC, 1994).

MANAGE:
No ongoing management of the grassland apparent, apart from some mowing of areas near residential properties.


VEG:
Barley was being grown on the NE side of the A14 and barley and carrots on the SW side. Along the external field boundaries on the NE side, there are discontinuous hedgerows up to 3.5m high and 2m wide, dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} with a ground flora of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Bromus hordeaceus, Holcus lanatus, Silene alba} and {\it Urtica dioica}. No hedgerows were seen along the external field boundaries on the SW side of the A14. Along the public road on the SW boundary, there is a narrow belt (10m wide) of tall grass/herb vegetation. Species recorded include {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus lanatus, Anthriscus sylvestris, Artemisia vulgaris} agg., {\it Ballota nigra, Heracleum sphondylium, Pastinaca sativa, Silene dioica} and {\it S. vulgaris}.

MANAGE:
As nearly all the land is arable, it is likely that the rights in the CL register are no longer exercised. Coding on pre 1970 OS maps (1:10560) suggest the land was once rough pasture or heathland. 

It would be desirable to retain the remaining hedgerows on the NE side of the A14.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, house sparrow, blue tit.

VEG:
The common is surrounded by arable fields. The verges support rank grassland dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Holcus lanatus} with locally abundant {\it Dactylis glomerata, Elytrigia repens} and {\it Achillea millefolium}, plus locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Hordeum murinum, Poa} spp., {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Centaurea nigra, Ranunculus repens, Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Trifolium pratense, T. repens} and {\it Urtica dioica}. There is also occasional {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Malva sylvestris} and {\it Papaver rhoeas}. 

Hedgerows where present are usually less than 1.5m high and wide, with gaps at the base; they are dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} with occasional {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Rosa} sp. and {\it Sambucus nigra}. Where hedgerows are absent, there are occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra} bushes along the field boundaries, with occasional {\it Acer campestre, Quercus robur} and {\it Ulmus procera} saplings.

MANAGE:
The hedgerows appear to be trimmed frequently. It would desirable to manage the hedgerows in such a way as to allow them to become denser at the base. The grass verges are probably cut at least once a year.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, blue tit, chaffinch, yellowhammer.

VEG:
There are hedgerows on both sides of the road, but with some long gaps. The common is surrounded by arable fields.
 
In the southern half of the common, the hedgerows look as if they have not been cut for some time; they are 3 to 5m high and wide and dominated by {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}, with frequent {\it Acer campestre, Bryonia dioica, Cornus sanguinea, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulmus procera}, plus occasional {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Prunus spinosa, Rosa} sp. and {\it Tamus communis}. The hedgerows in the northern half of the common have a similar species composition, but are trimmed at least once a year; they are up to 3m high and wide. 

Discontinuous ditches (up to 1.5m deep and 3m wide) run along the hedgerows and contain locally frequent {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria} where they are not completely shaded by overhanging hedgerow shrub species. 

The verges are 1 to 6m wide and support rank grassland which is mostly dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Holcus lanatus}, with locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Bromus hordeaceus, Dactylis glomerata, Elytrigia repens, Lolium perenne, Poa} spp., {\it Achillea millefolium, Agrimonia eupatoria, Anthriscus sylvestris, Centaurea nigra, Convolvulus arvensis, Galium aparine, Heracleum sphondylium, Lamium album, Plantago lanceolata, Ranunculus repens, Torillis japonica, Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Trifolium pratense} and {\it T. repens}, plus occasional {\it Hordeum murinum, Papaver rhoeas, Plantago media, Silene vulgaris, Tragopogon pratensis, Scabiosa} sp., {\it Silene alba} and {\it S. dioica}.

MANAGE:
Encroachment of scrub species is occuring on some sections of verge, indicating that they are not cut regularly. The wide, scrubby hedgerows  provide a good area of cover for birds and small mammals in a predominantly open, arable landscape.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chaffinch, house sparrow, yellowhammer.

VEG:
The hedgerows along the CL boundary are upto 5m high and 6m wide. They are dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. plus occasional {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. On the outside of the CL boundary, along the edges of the arable fields, there is a strip (2 to 3m wide) of tall grass/herb vegetation ({\it Arrhenatherum elatius/Heracleum sphondylium}, with occasional {\it Pteridium aquilinum}) running along the hedgerows. The common was viewed from the road only, using binoculars.

MANAGE:
Managed as improved grassland, used for grazing. It would be desirable to retain the wide, scrubby hedgerows with fringing strip of tall grass/herb vegetation as they povide a valuable area of cover for birds and small mammals in a predominantly open, arable landscape.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chaffinch, house sparrow, song thrush, yellowhammer.

VEG:
Land to the east of the public road is used for arable agriculture; sugar beet was growing at the time of survey. Along the northern boundary of this field, there are occasional mature standard {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees. 

On the western side of the road, there are 2 small areas of land which appear to be disused. The largest, to the south of the building shown on the OS map, contains a mixture of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Urtica dioica}, with occasional {\it Fagus sylvatica} trees along the road.

The remaining area, in the NW corner of the common, contains broadleaved woodland dominated by {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}, with peripheral areas of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Urtica dioica} along the road.

MANAGE:
Land outside the cultivated area appears to be unmanaged.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blue tit, house sparrow, woodpigeon.

VEG:
Along the Little Ouse River, there is a belt of {\it Betula pendula} dominated woodland. This is discontinuous to the east of the access track at TM025787, but extends across the width of the common to the west. It contains scattered {\it Quercus robur} of various ages (but trunk diameters less than 25cm at chest height), {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Salix} sp., {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ulex europaeus}, and occasional young {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. In drier parts, the ground is mostly covered with leaf litter, with scattered patches of {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Urtica dioica} plus occasional {\it Arum maculatum} and {\it Viola hirta}. Near the river bank, (especially where the canopy is more open) there are patches of short {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Molinia caerulea}, which grade into stands of {\it Carex acutiformis}; this is abundant along the riverbank.

There is an area of open ground to the east of the access track, which contains numerous rabbit burrows. It is so heavily grazed that it appears to be bare from a distance, but on closer inspection numerous tiny {\it Agrostis} sp., {\it Festuca} sp, and {\it Rumex acetosella} plants are visible, interspersed with bare earth.

Wheeler and Shaw (1992) mention that although there are few past records, they suggest that the site once supported a much more species rich vegetation: "Records are suggestive of a species rich CARICION-DAVALLIANAE vegetation with {\it Schoeno-Juncetum} (M13) stands below base-rich seepages and perhaps also {\it Acrocladio-Caricetum schoenetosum} (M9) analogues in terrestrializing peat cuts. They also suggest the presence of wet heath or even poor fen communities, presumably associated with the adjoining sands, which had a range of acidipholous species, including taxa such as {\it Sphagnum papillosum}...."

The Suffolk Wildlife Trust County Wildlife Site Sheet mentions that dredging operations along the river in 1968 lowered its level by two feet. This led to a lowering of the fen water table and subsequent shrinkage of the peat.

MANAGE:
No ongoing management apparent. It is not clear if grazing rights are still exercised. The common has been cut for peat; this practice had ceased by the late 1950's (Wheeler and Shaw, 1992).


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, house sparrow, pheasant, swallow. Several rabbits seen.

VEG:
The three most abundant grass species appear to be {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Holcus lanatus. Arrhenatherum elatius} is locally dominant in the southern half of the common. Other species recorded: locally frequent {\it Cynosurus cristatus, Dactylis glomerata, Phleum pratense, Poa} spp., {\it Cirsium arvense, Potentilla reptans, Ranunculus repens, R. acris, Rumex acetosa, Trifolium dubium, T. repens} and {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg., plus occasional {\it Geranium dissectum}.  

The pond in the eastern half of the common is mostly open water, fringed with abundant {\it Glyceria fluitans} and {\it Eleocharis palustris}, and frequent {\it Juncus acutiflorus, Mentha aquatica, Oenanthe} sp. and {\it Solanum dulcamara}, plus occasional {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica, Apium nodiflorum, Carex otrubae, Juncus effusus} and {\it J. inflexus}. The bank supports dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica} with abundant {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}, and {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Salix cinerea} bushes, which partly encircle the pond.

The grassland is enclosed by discontinuous hedgerows up to 4m high and 5m wide. They are dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa}, with frequent {\it Rosa} spp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Sambucus nigra}.

MANAGE:
Appears to be managed as a hay meadow. Grazing may take place on the autumn aftermath or over winter. 

About one third of common (adjacent to the road) had been mown recently. Further survey is required earlier in the year as herb species may have been under recorded in this area.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chiffchaff, house sparrow, moorhen, swallow, yellowhammer. Longer areas of grass fringing the scrub contain numerous grasshoppers. Blue-tailed damselflies ({\it Ischnura elegans}) and black-tailed skimmers ({\it Orthetrum cancellatum}) were seen along the drain. Several rabbits were seen in the eastern half of the common.

VEG:
The semi-improved acid grassland is dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca} sp., with adundant {\it Rumex acetosella} plus locally frequent {\it Lolium perenne, Bellis perennis, Galium saxatile, Pilosella officinarum, Lotus corniculatus, Plantago lanceolata, Trifolium repens} and {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}. Areas of longer grass around the edges of the scrub in the eastern half of the common often contain frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Carex hirta, Dactylis glomerata, Medicago lupulina} and {\it Senecio jacobaea}, plus occasional {\it Cruciata laevipes, Primula vulgaris} and {\it Trifolium pratense}; these species are also situated in shallow depressions (too small to map) near the northern boundary (TM433909) which may have been created by soil extraction.

The scattered and dense scrub in the eastern half of the common is dominated by {\it Ulex europaeus} with locally frequent {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., plus scattered {\it Betula pubescens} and {\it Quercus robur}. There is also occasional {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. Along the eastern and northern boundaries, the {\it B. pubescens} and {\it Q. robur} become dense enough to form small areas of broadleaved woodland, which also contain occasional {\it Populus} sp. The woodland at TM436908 contains an unusual form of {\it Rubus} with heavily dissected leaves. A line of mature {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees is situated along the CL boundary to the NW of Boney's Island.

The drain along the southern boundary from the allotment gardens (TM428907) to the playground (TM430906) contains a variety of the aquatic and marginal plants which would be expected in such a situation. {\it Glyceria maxima} and {\it Typha latifolia} are locally dominant; there is also locally frequent {\it Apium nodiflorum, Eleocharis palustris, Equisetum palustre, Glyceria fluitans, Juncus effusus, Lycopus europaeus, Mentha aquatica, Myosotis scorpioides, Ranunculus flammula} and {\it R. sceleratus}, plus occasional {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica, Butomus umbellatus, Carex otrubae, Filipendula ulmaria, Juncus inflexus} and {\it Iris pseudacorus}. The drain is open to cattle grazing and the bank is poached in places.

MANAGE:
Used for cattle grazing and as a golf course, the fairways are mown. A notice at the car park states that rabbit shooting is permitted by authorized persons. 

There has been limited gorse burning near the northern boundary of the common.


VEG:
The dense scrub is dominated by {\it Ulex europaeus} with frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and scattered young {\it Quercus robur} trees, plus occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Fagus sylvatica} (young trees). The scrub grades into {\it Q. robur} dominated woodland at the western end of the common. The frequent regeneration of {\it Q. robur} indicates that the scrub will gradually succeed to woodland. 

The ground flora consists of locally frequent {\it Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Hedera helix}, plus occasional {\it Dactylis glomerata, Poa nemoralis, Anthriscus sylvestris, Corydalis} sp.,  {\it Dryopteris dilatata, Galium aparine, Rumex acetosa, R. acetosella, Torillis japonica} and {\it Urtica dioica}.


VEG:
The poor semi-improved grassland is dominated {\it Holcus lanatus} with locally abundant {\it Bromus hordeaceus} plus locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Lolium perenne, Poa} spp., {\it Cirsium arvense, Ranunculus acris, R. repens, Rumex acetosa, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Trifolium repens}.  

The small area of semi-improved neutral grassland is similar to that described above, but it also contains abundant {\it Centaurea nigra} and occasional {\it Leucanthemum vulgare}.

Wide, scrubby hedgrows run along the boundary of the common. They are a mixture of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rosa canina, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulmus} sp., plus occasional {\it Sambucus nigra}.

MANAGE:
The grassland looked ungrazed at the time of survey (sward height 20 to 50cm). It may be cut for hay in the late summer, with grazing taking place on the autumn aftermath or overwinter.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, blue tit, chaffinch, house sparrow, yellowhammer. Several meadow brown, small copper and small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen.

VEG:
The poor semi-improved grassland occupies most of the area of the common. It is dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} with locally abundant {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Dactylis glomerata, Ranunculus acris, R. repens} and {\it Rumex acetosa}, plus locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Arrhenatherum elatius, Deschampsia cespitosa, Poa} spp., {\it Cirsium arvense} and {\it Taraxacum offinale} agg. There is also occasional {\it Trifolium dubium} and {\it T. pratense}. At the southern end of the common, the grassland is fringed with small areas of dense scrub and wide, scrubby hedgerows dominated by {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} with locally frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Sambucus nigra}. 

The small area of semi-improved neutral grassland at the northern end of the common is dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Holcus lanatus} with locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Poa} spp. It contains all the herb species mentioned above, also frequent {\it Centaurea nigra} and {\it Vicia sativa}, plus occasional {\it Leucanthemum vulgare}.

The pond at TM382872 is fringed with abundant {\it Eleocharis palustris} and {\it Veronica} sp., plus occasional {\it Lycopus europaeus} and {\it Typha latifolia}. The banks suport dense stands of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Epilobium hirsutum} with frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}. At TM383871, there is a small pond fringed with {\it Juncus effusus, J. inflexus} and {\it Solanum dulcamara}, plus occasional {\it Scrophularia aquatica}. The bank supports dense stands of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., with frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Galium aparine} and {\it Rosa} sp., plus occasional {\it Cornus sanguinea}. 

{\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees have been planted along the road which runs N-S across the common.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chiffchaff, mallard, moorhen, domestic white goose, skylark, swallow, yellowhammer. Several meadow brown and small tortoiseshell butterflies seen, and several rabbits.

VEG:
The poor semi-improved grassland at the southern end of the common is dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} with abundant {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Rumex acetosa}, plus locally frequent {\it Agrostis} sp., {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Arrhenatherum elatius, Deschampsia cespitosa, Ranunculus acris, R. repens} and {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. There is also occasional {\it Bromus hordeaceus} and {\it Potentilla anserina}. The abundant {\it Rumex acetosa} gives the sward a reddish appearance from the distance. Sward height was in the range 20 to 50cm.

The semi-improved neutral grassland which occupies most of the area of the common contains the same species as the area described above, but no one species appears to be dominant over the whole area. There are distinct areas  where {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} is locally dominant. {\it Bromus hordeaceus} is locally frequent. Other species recorded include locally frequent {\it Achillea millefolium, Anthriscus sylvestris} (within 3m of the road and along hedgerows), {\it Carex hirta, Centaurea nigra, Cerastium fontanum} ssp. {\it holosteoides}, and {\it Leucanthemum vulgare}, plus occasional {\it Briza media, Agrimonia eupatoria, Cirsium arvense, C. palustre} and {\it Silaum silaus}. Sward height was in the range 20 to 50cm.

In the poor semi-improved grassland which adjoins the southern boundary, {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Holcus lanatus} are all locally dominant. There is also locally abundant {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Rumex acetosa}, plus locally frequent {\it Bromus hordeaceus, Dactylis glomerata, Deschampsia cespitosa, Festuca rubra, Cerastium fontanum} ssp. {\it holosteoides} and {\it Cirsium arvense}, with occasional {\it Carex hirta, Lolium perenne} and {\it Centaurea nigra}. Sward height was in the range 30 to 60cm.

Three of the ponds on the common were surveyed. Pond 1 (TM377868) contains abundant {\it Eleocharis palustris} and {\it Glyceria fluitans} (there is little open water) fringed with abundant {\it Galium palustre} and frequent {\it Carex otrubae, Juncus inflexus} and {\it Lycopus europaeus}, plus occasional {\it Glyceria maxima, Scrophularia aquatica, Solanum dulcamara} and {\it Typha latifolia}. The bank supports dense stands of {\it Cirsium arvense, Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Galium aparine}, plus occasional {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg.

Pond 2 (TM379871) contains abundant {\it Potamogeton crispus} fringed with frequent {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it J. inflexus}, plus occasional {\it Solanum dulcamara, Stachys palustris} and {\it Typha latifolia}. The western bank supports dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica}, with frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}. The eastern bank supports a dense {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominated hedge, with frequent {\it Rosa} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg.

No aquatic or marginal vegetation was seen on pond 3 (TM378871), which is heavily used by domestic geese (12 seen). The banks are mostly short grass with patches of bare ground and occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., and {\it Urtica dioica}.

No detailed survey of the hedgerows which enclose the common was carried out. They appear to be dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa}, with frequent {\it Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., and are mostly 2 to 4m high and wide (up to 6m wide along the SE boundary). A small area of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} dominated dense scrub is situated near the Village Hall (TM379869).

MANAGE:
There are rights to graze cattle, sheep goats and ponies, but no livestock (apart from domestic geese) was seen at the time of survey. It is possible that the grassland is managed as a hay meadow and cut in late summer. Grazing may take place on the autumn aftermath or over winter.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, house sparrow, swallow, yellowhammer.
2 rabbits seen.

VEG:
The grassland is mostly dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} with frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Arrhenatherum elatius, Bromus} sp., {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Lolium perenne, Poa} spp., {\it Achillea millefolium, Centaurea nigra, Cerastium fontanum} ssp. {\it holosteoides} and {\it Ranunculus repens}.

MANAGE:
The common was being grazed by tethered horses at the time of survey. Goats, hens and a donkey were grazing around the gypsy caravans.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, blue tit, chiffchaff, house sparrow, skylark, swallow, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. The long grass contains numerous grasshoppers. Several large white, ringlet and small copper butterflies seen.

VEG:
The semi-improved neutral grassland was uncut at the time of survey, and there was no evidence of recent livestock grazing. The three most abundant grass species appear to be {\it Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Lolium perennne}. There is locally frequent {\it Agrostis} sp., {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Alopecurus pratensis, Arrhenatherum elatius, Poa} spp., {\it Achillea millefolium, Centaurea nigra, Plantago lanceolata, Ranunculus repens, Rumex acetosa, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Trifolium repens}, plus occasional {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Agrimonia eupatoria, Galium aparine, Heracleum sphondylium, Leucanthemum vulgare, Lotus corniculatus, Malva sylvestris, Prunella vulgaris} and {\it Trifolium pratense}. 

The hedgerows are discontinuous and extend the whole length of the common on both sides of the track. They are generally up to 4m high and 3m wide, but reach a maximum width of about 8m where they enclose the grassland described above. The dominant species are {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa}, with frequent {\it Rosa} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., plus occasional {\it Acer campestre, Cornus sanguinea, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Tamus communis}. There are occasional mature standard {\it Quercus robur} trees.

MANAGE:
It is not clear if grazing rights are still exercised. The lack of established shrub seedlings (eg. {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa}) around the edges of the grassland suggests that it is cut at least once a year, or possibly grazed late in the summer or over winter. 

The wide, scrubby hedgerows provide a good area of cover for birds and small mammals in a predominately open arable landcsape.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, house sparrow, pied wagtail, song thrush, yellowhammer.

VEG:
The grassland appears to be a mixture of {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Lolium perenne}, with occasional {\it Centaurea nigra, Ranunculus acris} and {\it Rumex acetosa}. No other herb species were seen, although this may be due to the fact that the grass had been cut very recently and the cuttings removed; further survey is required earlier in the year to obtain a more accurate record of the species composition and determine if recording the grassland as semi-improved neutral (B22) would be more appropriate.

Apart fom the roadside boundary, which is unfenced, the eastern section is enclosed by hedgerows up to 5m high and 8m wide dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with frequent {\it Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and young {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees. Along the inside edges, there is a belt (up to 2m wide) of uncut grass dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with frequent {\it Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Urtica dioica}. Along the NW boundary, a small area of dense scrub dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. extends into the grassland from the boundary hedge.

MANAGE:
There is a right to graze bullocks, but no evidence of recent grazing was seen. Recent cutting suggests the common is managed for hay production during the spring and summer. Grazing may still take place on the aftermath, or during the winter. 

The small area of dense scrub and wide, scrubby boundary hedgerows provide a valuable area of cover for birds and small mammals in a predominantly open, arable landscape. The practice of leaving a strip of less frequently cut grass on the inside edge of the hedgerows is also advantageous to wildlife.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chiffchaff, house sparrow, magpie, swallow, woodpigeon, yellowhammer.

VEG:
The most botanically interesting area of the common is at Crabtree Corner (TM325834), where there is semi-improved calcareous grassland (B32) on the roadside verges. It is dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} and had been cut within the last three weeks at the time of survey. Other species recorded: abundant {\it Centaurea nigra} and {\it Trifolium repens} with frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Arrhenatherum elatius, Poa} spp., {\it Achillea millefolium, Galium mollugo, Geranium pyrenaicum, Glechoma hederacea, Hieracium} sp., {\it Leucanthemum vulgare, Plantago lanceolata, Pulicaria dysenterica, Silaum silaus, Trifolium ochroleucon} (*nationally scarce) and {\it T. pratense}, plus occasional {\it Agrimonia eupatoria, Artemisia vulgaris} agg., {\it Plantago media, Primula veris} and {\it Salix} sp. (less than 30cm high). 

The remaining areas of roadside verge are similar in composition, but do not contain the same diversity of herb species in such a small area. Sections dominated by rank {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Dactylis glomerata} with frequent {\it Elytrigia repens, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium} have been recorded as poor semi-improved grassland (B6). 

Hedgerow shrub species are generally absent along the verges, except for occasional untrimmed {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa}, and  occasional mature standard {\it Quercus robur} trees whose presence suggests that hedgerows may once have existed. On the southern side of the road between the Old Rectory driveway (TM330833) and Crabtree Corner, there are small areas of dense scrub dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with frequent {\it Cornus sanguinea} and {\it Corylus avellana}, and scattered {\it Acer campestre}. 

The main area of the common at All Saint's South Elmham is divided by internal fencing. All of the enclosed area appears to be improved grassland;  the western half is cattle grazed, the remaining area appears to be being managed for silage production or has been left for autumn grazing. The  unenclosed areas all appear to be semi-improved neutral grassland (sward height 20 to 50cm); the most abundant species are {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Holcus lanatus}. Other species recorded: locally abundant {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Centaurea nigra, Ranunculus acris, R. repens} and {\it Rumex acetosa}; locally frequent {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Poa} spp., {\it Plantago lanceolata, Potentilla anserina, P. reptans} and {\it Silaum silaus}, plus occasional {\it Cardamine pratensis, Cirsium palustre, Juncus conglomeratus, J. effusus, J. inflexus, Leucanthemum vulgare} and {\it Lotus corniculatus}. There are occasional patches (too small to map) of more acidic grassland in the southern half, dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} with occasional {\it A. canina}. Along the south western boundary, there are discontinuous hedgerows up to 8m wide and 5m high dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with scattered young {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur}. 

The pond at TM341827 was not surveyed. The pond at TM342828 contains abundant {\it Ranunculus} sp. (water crowfoot). Along the waters edge, there is abundant {\it Juncus acutiflorus} with occasional {\it Lycopus europaeus} and {\it Typha latifolia}. The banks support dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra}.

* Nationally scarce species are those occurring in between 16 and 100 10km squares in Britain (D.A.Pearman {\it et al} 'Scarce Plants in Britain', JNCC, 1994).

MANAGE:
Partly used for cattle grazing. The unenclosed area of semi-improved neutral grassland is probably cut for hay in the late summer. It may be grazed during the autumn or over winter. 

The generally dense hedgerows and small areas of dense scrub provide a good area of cover for birds and small mammals. If hedgerows did once exist along the roadside verges to the west of the main area of the common, it would be worth considering reinstating them if adjacent landowners are sympathetic and an appropriate source of funding can be found.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, blue tit, skylark. Several small blue and small copper butterflies were seen.

VEG:
The semi-improved neutral grassland occupies the eastern half of the common. The most abundant species appear to be {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Cynosurus cristatus}, with locally frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris, Carex hirta, Deschampsia cespitosa, Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne, Achillea millefolium, Bellis perennis, Centaurea nigra, Cerastium fontanum} ssp. {\it holosteoides, Cirsium arvense, Medicago lupulina, Potentilla anserina, Ranunculus acris, R. repens, Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Trifolium pratense} and {\it T. repens}, plus occasional {\it Geranium dissectum}. Some {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} saplings have been planted along the road running ESE to Wingfield. 

The area recorded as semi-improved calcareous grassland in the western half of the common has a similar species composition to the area described above, but also contains abundant {\it Agrimonia eupatoria, Daucus carota} and {\it Ononis spinosa}, with frequent {\it Leucanthemum vulgare} and {\it Lotus pendunculatus}.

Sward height in both areas of grassland described above was generally in the range 5 to 20cm.

Small areas of grassland outside residential properties in the western half of the common are more typical of poor semi-improved grassland (B6) and have been recorded as such.      

Scrubby hedgerows (up to 5m high and 8m wide) dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with frequent {\it Rosa} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., plus occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior} (coppiced) and {\it Salix alba} run along the south and east facing sections of the CL boundary.

MANAGE:
Used for cattle grazing. The dense, scrubby hedgerows provide a good area of cover for birds and small mammals. 

Grassland such as that recorded here may once have been much more common in the local area; CL status has probably been the main factor preventing conversion to arable land.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, chiffchaff, coot, house sparrow, great tit, grey partridge, common gull, kestrel, magpie, mallard, pheasant, skylark, starling, swallow, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Several small blue butterflies were seen in the northern half of the common, and 2 rabbits in the southern half.

VEG:
This is one of the largest grassland commons in Suffolk; from the railway crossing at Mellis, it extends about 2km to the SW and 0.75km to the east. 

To the east of the railway crossing at Mellis, there is a large area of semi-improved neutral grassland. This was uncut at the time of survey; sward height was in the range 30 to 50cm. The most abundant grass species appear to be {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Bromus hordeaceus} and {\it Holcus lanatus}, with locally frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Arrhenatherum elatius} (mostly towards edges), {\it Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Poa} spp. The most striking feature of this area is the abundant {\it Leucanthemum vulgare}, which was in full flower. Other species noted include abundant {\it Achillea millefolium, Centaurea nigra, Rumex acetosa, Plantago lanceolata} and {\it Ranunculus acris}, with locally frequent {\it Carex hirta, C. panicea, Ranunculus repens, Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Trifolium dubium, T. pratense} and {\it T. repens}, plus occasional {\it Galium verum} and {\it Tragopogon pratensis}. Within the sward, there are scattered but distinct patches (too small to map) where {\it Festuca rubra} is dominant; these contain a very low proportion of herb species compared to the surrounding sward.

The grassland to the west of the railway track (in grid square TM0974) was of a similar height to that descibed above and contains the same species, but in different proportions. {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Festuca rubra} appear to be more evenly distributed througout the sward and there is much less {\it Leucanthemum vulgare}, allowing the colour of {\it Rumex acetosa} to become more apparent, giving the sward a reddish appearance. Just to the south of Ashtree Farm (at TM097746) there is a small area of semi-improved calcareous grassland (B32) which contains abundant {\it Briza media} with frequent {\it Primula veris}. Along the SE boundary of this area of the common, there are scattered {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees (mature standards, with occasional old pollards). A brief survey was made of the pond adjoining the Hall at TM099747 (outside the common boundary). It contains abundant {\it Potamogeton crispus}; the bank (except at the southern end) is occupied by dense {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., with scattered {\it Ulmus} sp. saplings. The pond just to the west (adjoining the CL boundary) is partly shaded by {\it Crataegus monogyna} on its bank. It is fringed with frequent {\it Solanum dulcamara}, plus occasional {\it Epilobium hirsutum}, {\it Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Juncus effusus}.

The grassland to the west of Willow Farm (in grid squares TM0873 and 0874) was viewed from the road only using binoculars. It appears to be much poorer in species composition than the areas described above; {\it Lolium perenne} appears to be dominant, with abundant {\it Rumex acetosa} and frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Holcus lanatus}. A brief survey was made of the pond opposite Pouteney Hall (TM082737). The water (less than 40cm deep) contains frequent {\it Eleocharis palustris}, fringed with abundant {\it Glyceria fluitans} and {\it Juncus inflexus}, plus occasional {\it Carex otrubae}. The bank supports dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica}.

The first 0.8km of Dam Lane north of Mellis was surveyed on foot. The lane is an unsurfaced track for most of this length. On the eastern side, there are dense, scrubby hedgerows which contain {\it Acer campestre, Bryonia dioica, Cornus sanguinea, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Sambucus nigra, Tamus communis} and {\it Ulmus procera}. On the eastern side near Mellis Lodge, there are small ponds fringed with dense {\it Salix cinerea} and {\it S. viminalis}. One old {\it Salix alba} pollard was seen in this area. North of Mellis Lodge, there are mature standard {\it Quercus robur} trees on both sides of the lane. Very little hedgerow remains on the western side, which borders an arable field and has recently been planted in places with {\it Acer campestre} saplings. Other species noted along the lane include frequent {\it Alliaria petiolata, Anthriscus sylvestris, Galium aparine, Glechoma hederacea, Hedera helix} and {\it Torillis japonica} plus occasional {\it Viola hirta}. 

Along Mellisash Road to the North of Mellis, there are discontinuous hedgerows on the south side dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna}. Only the first 0.3km to the west of Dam Lane was surveyed. Rank grassland along the verges is mostly dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}, with locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Elytrigia repens, Holcus lanatus, Poa} spp., {\it Alliaria petiolata, Cirsium arvense, Rumex obtusifolius, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and (where the verge directly borders an arable field), {\it Papaver rhoeas} and {\it Sisymbrium officinale}.

MANAGE:
The grazing season is determined by the rightholders annual meeting and Reeve (see general notes section for the kind of stock involved). It is likely that most of the grassland on the common is cut for hay in late summer or early autumn.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, black headed gull, blue tit, chaffinch, chiffchaff, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Several meadow brown and small copper butterflies seen, also several rabbits. Areas of longer grass contain numerous grasshoppers.

VEG:
The dense {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub occupies most of the area of the common, with locally frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. plus occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna, Cytisus scoparius, Populus alba, Prunus spinosa, Salix} sp. and {\it Sambucus nigra}. At the northern end, there is a small area dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} with frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}, plus scattered {\it Betula} sp., {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Ulmus} sp.              

Within and around the edges of the scrub, there are patches of rank semi-improved acid grassland and dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. The grassland is dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} with abundant {\it Rumex acetosella} and locally frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus, Poa} spp., {\it Achillea millefolium, Galium saxatile} and {\it Prunella vulgaris} plus occasional {\it Alopecurus pratensis} and {\it Pilosella officinarum}. There are scattered patches (too small to map) of sandy ground which may be more calcareous in nature where {\it Galium verum} and {\it Erodium cicutarium} are frequent, with occasional {\it Carex arenaria}. 

The scrub is often fringed with patches (up to about 2m wide) of tall grass dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with frequent {\it Chamerion angustifolium} plus occasional {\it Digitalis purpurea, Foeniculum} sp., {\it Cruciata laevipes, Silene alba} and {\it Urtica dioica}.  

A slow flowing stream (up to 2m wide) runs through the common. The section surveyed (from X to Y on the map) contains frequent {\it Glyceria fluitans} plus occasional {\it Glyceria maxima} and {\it Iris pseudacorus}. The banks support dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} with frequent {\it Arrenatherum elatius} and {\it Ballota nigra} plus occasional {\it Armoracia rusticana, Cirsium palustre} and {\it Tanacetum vulgare}. There are also old, pollarded {\it Salix alba} trees. Just to the north of the stream, there is a small area of semi-improved neutral grassland dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne, Achillea millefolium, Anthriscus sylvestris, Centaurea nigra} and {\it Glechoma hederacea} plus occasional {\it Galium verum} and {\it Malva sylvestris}.

At the northern end of the common (TM432610), there is a small pond which contains dense stands of {\it Glyceria maxima}.

MANAGE:
Tethered sheep were seen in the northern half of the common, where there has been recent limited scrub clearance. No evidence of recent livestock grazing was seen on the rest of the common.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chiffchaff, house sparrow, magpie, skylark, swallow. 2 rabbits seen.

VEG:
Most of the common was viewed from the public footpaths, using binoculars. It appears to be improved, with a sward height of less than 15cm. Localized  areas of rank {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Lolium perenne} dominated sward (height 10 to 30cm) with abundant {\it Achillea millefolium} and occasional {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Carduus nutans, Pulicaria dysenterica} and {\it Urtica dioica} have been recorded as poor semi-improved (B6).     

Along the southern boundary, there are occasional {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees. The River Waveney is just outside the CL boundary. The slower flowing areas in the vicinity of the footbridge at TM326887 contain discontinuous stands of {\it Glyceria maxima} and {\it Phalaris arundinacea}, with occasional {\it Nuphar lutea, Potamogeton natans, Schoenoplectus lacustris} and {\it Sparganium emersum}. The banks support dense stands of {\it Urtica dioica}, with locally frequent {\it Calystegia sepium, Epilobium hirstum} and {\it Cirsium arvense}, plus occasional {\it Arctium} sp., {\it Cirsium palustre} and {\it Conium maculatum}.

MANAGE:
Mostly managed as improved grassland, used for cattle grazing. 

It is not clear if the common is usually flooded during the winter. Seasonal flooding may have occurred regularly in the past, and the sward may have contained a much greater diversity of herb species. It would be interesting to see quadrat data or a species list from the 1930's.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, chiffchaff, great tit, yellowhammer. Several rabbits seen, also several small tortoiseshell and small blue butterflies.

VEG:
For the purpose of description, this common has been divided into two sections:

1) To the south of Love Lane, dense scrub is dominated by {\it Ulex europaeus} with frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., plus occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. There are scattered {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus robur} trees of various ages (trunk diameters up to 20cm at chest height). The scattered areas of acid grassland, dry heath/acid grassland mosaic and dry heath in this area are mostly too small to map; only the largest continuous areas are shown. The acid grassland is generally very short (rabbit grazed) and dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca} sp., with locally frequent {\it Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Rumex acetosella}. Areas of heathland are dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}, in the form of short (less than 10cm high) carpets, interspersed with patches of acid grassland. There is also occasional {\it Cladonia} sp., {\it Erica cinerea} and {\it Polytrichum} sp.                                       

In addition to the habitats described above, there are scattered areas of bare ground (mostly sand) in this section. These appear to be the sites of former pits which may have remained unvegetated because of frequent walking and recreational use, including motorcycle riding.   

Other species recorded in the area south of Love Lane include locally frequent {\it Plantago coronopus} (within 10m of road), plus occasional {\it Arctium} sp., {\it Digitalis purpurea, Sorbus aucuparia} (saplings), {\it Sedum} sp. and {\it Umbilicus rupestris}. 

2)To the north of Love Lane, there is a substantial area of dry heath dominated by short (less than 5cm high) carpets of {\it Calluna vulgaris} with frequent {\it Erica cinerea}, interspersed with patches of acid grassland. This ends abruptly towards the western boundary, where the heath is semi-mature (height 10 to 35cm) and cover is almost continuous. Goal posts have been placed on the common, and the shortness of the heath here may be due to mowing or regular recreational use as well as rabbit grazing. Along the CL boundary, the heathland is fringed with a belt of {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub with scattered (mostly young) {\it Betula pendula, B. pubescens} and {\it Quercus robur}, plus occasional {\it Malus} sp. There is a belt (up to 18m wide) of dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} along the eastern boundary.

MANAGE:
The heathland to the north of Love Lane is used as a football pitch and may be mown. Too frequent mowing, connected with grazing pressure from rabbits would be expected to cause a gradual loss of dwarf shrub species and conversion to acid grassland. 

The frequency of scattered trees on the common is not enough to allow the development of a continuous canopy within the next decade (except perhaps for some small areas along the CL boundary) and when viewed from the highest points, the common still has a generally open appearance.

As the common is used frequently for recreational use, it is probably impractical to restrict access to areas of bare ground with the aim of encouraging re-vegetation. 

In the area south of Love Lane, if finances allow, it may be practical to attempt limited removal of gorse around the existing areas of dry heath in order to extend this habitat. This would involve control of rabbit grazing and possibly the consruction of internal fences.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, skylark, swallow, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. There is evidence of rabbit grazing in some of the shorter areas of sward near the roads.

VEG:
No detailed survey of the grassland was carried out. Scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rosa} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. scrub is visible from the road. The boundary hedgerows are mostly between 2 and 5m high and wide and contain {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Sambucus nigra} and (mostly in the N. half of the common), young {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. 

A brief survey was made of the two largest ponds. Pond 1 (TM285756) contains a small area of open water about 8m wide, fringed with abundant {\it Glyceria fluitans}, with frequent {\it Galium palustre, Myosotis scorpioides} and {\it Ranunculus flammula} plus occasional {\it Oenanthe fistulosa} and {\it Senecio aquaticus}. The bank is grazed and supports a mixed sward of {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Cynosurus cristatus} with frequent {\it Briza media, Bellis perennis, Potentilla reptans, Ranunculus acris} and {\it R. repens}.

Pond 2 (TM289758 - just outside the boundary of the common) contains abundant {\it Potamogeton crispus}. The bank supports abundant {\it Cirsium arvense} and {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. On the eastern side, there is a mixture of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Salix} sp., which form part of a hedge. 

No standing water was seen in the two small ponds on each side of the road at TM287758. They contain a sward similar to the surrounding land, but with occasional {\it Glyceria} sp. at the bottom. They may contain water during the winter months.

The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation for reference:

"Chippenhall Green is a large area of common land on calcareous clay soil. It is made up of species rich unimproved neutral grassland and supports a wide variety of grasses and herbs including an outstanding population of Green-winged orchids ({\it Orchis morio}).

The grass sward contains a mixture of species including Sweet vernal grass ({\it Anthoxanthum odoratum}), Meadow foxtail ({\it Alopecurus pratensis}), Red fescue ({\it Festuca rubra}) and Smooth-stalked meadow grass ({\it Poa pratensis}). Flote grass ({\it Glyceria fluitans}) and Tufted hair grass ({\it Deschampsia cespitosa}) are dominant in wet areas.

Herb species include Cuckoo Flower ({\it Cardamine pratensis}), Cowslip ({\it Primula veris}), Meadow saxifrage ({\it Saxifraga granulata}) and Marsh bedstraw ({\it Galium palustre}). The meadow is most notable for its Green winged orchids which are abundant in patches of short grazed turf."

A survey by the Nature Conservancy Council (M.T. Tithecott) in May 1985 suggests that the population of {\it Orchis morio} on the common is in excess of 30000. A survey in May 1989 by Stadbroke High School (supervised by the Upper Waveney Valley Countryside Project) identified some 4765 flowering spikes in an area of about 1 ha in the western half of the common.

MANAGE:
The common was being grazed by loose donkeys at the time of survey. The following information concerning management is reproduced from the English Nature Site Management Brief, 1994:

"The nature conservation objective of managing Chippenhall Green is to maintain the current diversity of grassland species and to reduce the proportion of species poor taller areas.

Traditional management here has maintained the mosaic of short grazed patches with their high species diversity. Management to produce a more evenly grazed sward would benefit many plant species. If longer areas were more heavily grazed or cut then the smaller, less robust herbs and grasses would also be able to survive in those areas....

An evenly grazed sward could be produced by short periods of intense sheep grazing in early spring and/or cattle grazing, concentrating stock in a mobile electric fence which is moved around the site. However, stock and labour may not be available and most common rights for grazing begin on 13 May each year.

Alternatively, mowing longer areas reduces the mass of vegetation and encourages more grazing of the resultant short sward which then may be maintained by grazing at the correct intensity. Only occasional mowing of these areas may then be required."

"Current management consists of grazing by cattle, horses and donkeys....Most common rights are let and the main grazers of the common are horses and cattle. English Nature doesn't know how the actual levels of grazing on Chippenhall Green compares with permitted rights. It would be very valuable for the commoners to keep a record of actual grazing times and intensities, to identify how stock levels influence the grassland."

Management proposals outlined included (for 1994), the organisation of a ragwort pulling day and mowing of a small area of the taller species poor grassland by the Upper Waveney Valley Project. Proposals for 1995 included the application of a selective herbicide to the ragwort and thistles in July, following a shorter grazing season.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, house sparrow, magpie, moorhen, pheasant, swallow.

VEG:
The poor semi-improved grassland is mostly situated in small enclosures at the northern end of the common. The arable ley ({\it Lolium perenne}) is situated on the SW side of the public road. The largest area of grassland (recorded as improved, B4) had been cut within the previous three weeks. It appears to be a mixture of {\it Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne} and {\it Poa} spp., with locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Festuca rubra}. No herb species were seen apart from locally frequent {\it Plantago lanceolata, Ranunculus repens, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Trifolium repens}. Areas recorded as semi-improved neutral also contain frequent {\it Centaurea nigra} and {\it Leucanthemum vulgare}. Some {\it Fraxinus excelsior} saplings have been planted along an access track in the NE half of the common.

The pond at TM343836 is partially shaded by surrounding {\it Crataegus monogyna} scrub. It contains abundant {\it Ranunculus} sp. (water crowfoot) with occasional {\it Alisma-plantago aquatica} and {\it Iris pseudacorus}, and occasional {\it Scrophularia aquatica} on the bank. 

The hedgerows which run along the CL boundary are generally discontinuous and up to 5m wide and high. They are a mixture of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ulmus procera}, with occasional {\it Rosa} sp. and young {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} trees. Some mature standard {\it Q. robur} trees are situated along the SW facing boundary.  

{\it Orchis pyramidalis} was seen along the road to the south of the common (TM342833), where there are small areas of unimproved calcareous grassland on the western verge.

MANAGE:
Cattle were grazing one of the small enclosures at the northern end of the common. The improved grassland is probably cut for hay or silage; grazing may take place on the aftermath during autumn or overwinter.

The generally dense, wide scrubby hedgerows provide a good area of cover for birds and small mammals on a predominantly open, arable landscape.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, chiffchaff, yellowhammer.

VEG:
Dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (with scattered {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus}) covers most of the area of the common. There are small peripheral areas of dense scrub ({\it Prunus spinosa, Ulex europaeus, Rubus fruticosus} agg.) with occasional coppiced young {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and peripheral stands of {\it Urtica dioica}.

MANAGE:
No ongoing management apparent, apart from localized coppicing of young {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, magpie, swallow, woodpigeon. Several meadow brown butterflies were seen, also 2 rabbits. Nightjars are known to use glades which have been created by localized tree and scrub clearance.

The following additional information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

"...Of additional interest is a broad anti-glider ditch whose exposed sandy sides provide an excellent habitat for lizards and solitary bees. There are a number of heathland birds on the site including nightjar and tree pipit."

VEG:
Part of the northern half of the common was surveyed from the access tracks. There are extensive stands of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} along the CL boundary, with scattered {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Betula pendula}. Most of the central area of this northern half appears to be dry heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} with locally frequent {\it Erica cinerea} and scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Betula pendula, Pinus} sp. and {\it Quercus robur}. Most of the trees have trunk diameters of less than 8cm at chest height; older trees are generally situated within 30m of the CL boundary. The heather is mature (height 30 to 60cm); overall cover is in the range 80 to 90 percent. Along access tracks and interspersed within the dry heath, there are small areas of acid grassland dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca ovina}, with locally frequent {\it Ceratocapnos claviculata, Galium saxatile, Pilosella officinarum, Lotus corniculatus} and {\it Rumex acetosella}. 

No further survey was carried out. The habitat map is based on that produced during the 1990 grassland survey of the common. Part of the SSSI citation is reproduced below for reference: 

"Blaxhall Heath is one of the few fragments of the once extensive 'Sandlings' heath of coastal Suffolk and is a good example of this type of dry lowland heath. Substantial losses of lowland heath have occured in the Sandling area and elsewhere in lowland England this century.

The heath slopes down towards a central valley through which a road passes, dividing the site into two halves. The northern half of the site has  sizeable stands of mature and degenerate Heather ({\it Calluna vulgaris}) which support a variety of {\it Cladonia} lichens and mosses. Bell heather ({\it Erica cinerea}) occurs locally amongst a mosaic of Heather and acid grassland. Bordering the road are large areas of Sand sedge ({\it Carex arenaria}), but elsewhere acid grassland is composed chiefly of Common bent and Sheep's fescue grasses with characteristic herb species such as Heath bedstraw ({\it Galium saxatile}) and Harebell ({\it Campanula rotundifolia}). Bracken ({\it Pteridium aquilinum}) dominates the remaining area with scattered Gorse and Silver birch. Similar heathland communities occur south of the road, although Heather is less extensive. To the north west, short rabbit grazed acid grassland contains a rich variety of herbs including Bird's foot trefoil ({\it Lotus corniculatus}), Spring vetch ({\it Vicia lathyroides}), Common storksbill ({\it Erodium cicutarium}) and Mouse-ear hawkweed ({\it Pilosella officinarum}). There is some invasion of Pine originating from adjacent plantations, but management action has been taken in recent years to control this encroachment."     

{\it Ornithopus perpusillus} and {\it Ulex gallii} were recorded during a recent grassland survey of the common (1990).

MANAGE:
The appearance of the area surveyed suggests that a programmme of management to control the spread of {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub, {\it Betula pendula} and bracken will be required in the near future to maintain the existing area of dry heath. It would be desirable to carry out localized burning of the heath to promote heather regeneration, and possibly create a mosaic of heather of various ages. It will be necessary to prevent the spread of the scrub species mentioned above and bracken onto newly exposed areas of ground following burning. 

Some tree clearance has been carried out by the Suffolk Wildlife Trust which has an informal management agreement with Blaxhall Parish Council "under which work is done to maintain the open heathy nature of the common and look after its various wild inhabitants." (SWT 'Common News' newsletter to local residents). 

The 1990 grassland survey of the common revealed that almost all of the unimproved acid grassland had been invaded by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Betula} sp. or {\it Carex arenaria}. There could be a good cover of acid grassland beneath areas of bracken which could be restored through bracken control but this was not mentioned in the grassland survey.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, house sparrow, swallow, yellowhammer. Two rabbits seen.

The following were recorded during a survey of the common in 1985: abundant rabbits, goldfinch, kestrel, long-tailed tit, linnet, bullfinch, chiffchaff, magpie, common lizard, cinnabar moth larvae, six-spot burnet moth, southern hawker dragonflies, small heath, Essex and small skippers, gatekeeper, ringlet, meadow brown, small tortoiseshell, painted lady, peacock and small, large and green-veined whites.

VEG:
The roughs on the golf course contain semi-improved acid and neutral grassland with scattered scrub. The semi-improved acid grassland is dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} with locally frequent {\it Festuca rubra, Holcus lanatus, Galium saxatile, Pilosella officinarum, Rumex acetosa} and {\it R. acetosella}. More neutral areas are generally dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} or {\it Holcus lanatus} with locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Carex hirta, Dactylis glomerata, Deschampsia cespitosa, Lolium perenne, Phleum pratense, Poa trivialis, Achillea millefolium, Plantago lanceolata} and {\it Silaum silaus}, plus occasional {\it Carduus nutans, Galium verum, Hypericum perforatum} and {\it Leucanthemum vulgare}. There are also occasional patches of {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica}. The scattered scrub is a mixture of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rosa} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. 

The southern half of the common appears to be unmanaged. It is a mosaic of dense and scattered scrub, rank grassland and tall herb vegetation. The scrub is dominated by {\it Prunus spinosa} (which occasionally forms dense, impenetrable thickets) with locally frequent {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna, Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ulex europaeus}. There are also scattered {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus robur} saplings. The rank grassland is dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} or {\it Holcus lanatus} with locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Carex hirta, Dactylis glomerata, Deschampsia cespitosa, Lolium perenne, Phleum pratense, Poa trivialis, Achillea millefolium, Plantago lanceolata, Leucanthemum vulgare} and {\it Silaum silaus}. 

The roadside verges frequently support ruderal vegetation which includes {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Cirsium arvense, Conium maculatum, Lactuca serriola, Reseda luteola} and {\it Rumex obtusifolius}. 

The recently registered area of the common (viewed from the A143) contains rank grassland and tall herb vegetation which appears to be similar in composition to the areas described above. 

The area to the west of the B1118 is under arable cultivation.

A detailed survey of the common was carried out in 1985, the common being sub-divided into 6 compartments. The northernmost compartment from the River Waveney south to the track crossing the common is largely occupied by the golf club (approx. two thirds). The third nearest the Waveney bridge was dominated by coarse grasses with patches of {\it Urtica dioica}. By the river bank there are stands of {\it Conium maculatum, Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it U. dioica}. In places along the river {\it Alnus glutinosa} had been planted. There was an area of {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub on a rise crossed by a narrow footpath from the bridge. The rest of the compartment supported acid grassland and {\it U. europaeus} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} scrub interspersed with fairways, greens and trees. The grass around the scrub was kept short by rabbits being taller further away and with thick growths of {\it Carex ovalis}. The fairways were mown regularly but were essentially of the same grasses as the surrounding vegetation. The tees and greens were mown more often and probably 'improved' by the addition of fertilisers or by re-turfing. Quite a large patch of {\it Sanguisorba minor} was recorded between two fairways amongst scattered scrub.

Compartment 2 lies south of compartment 1. It is bounded to the west by the B1118 and to the south by the minor road. It was described as similar to the above, being golf course, scrub and chiefly acid grassland. It differed in being much more undulating in the southern half (probably as a result of past sand digging). Running east to west across the centre of the compartment wss a sometimes steep, {\it Ulex europaeus} covered slope. At the eastern end of the compartment between another major track and the field, the scrub was taller and consisted mainly of {\it Quercus robur, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with {\it Ulmus} sp. at the common's edge. As in Cpmt 1, the lower land on the northern side has rougher, more neutral grassland. The most botanically interesting part of the whole common was in a series of hollows beginning about 100m down the track separating this compartment from cpmt 1 and extending south-westwards along the bottom of the slope on the edge of the scrub. This turf had a chalk grassland flora probably due to chalk being excavated with the sand. The characteristic plants present were {\it Scabiosa columbaria, Cirsium acaule, Filipendula vulgaris, Thymus pulegiodes, Polygala vulgaris, Sanguisorba minor} and most remarkably {\it Helianthemum nummularium}, 60 of which were seen flowering on a cool, sunny day in early September. Where the Council had mown the roadside verge on the western side of the compartment {\it Arenaria serpyllifolia} and {\it Erodium cicutarium} grew in small numbers. Behind this mown strip was a patch of {\it Reseda lutea} and nearby one or two plants of {\it Chenopodium bonus-henricus}.

The third compartment lies between the B1118 and B1077, bordered to the south by the minor road. The southern end of the compartment had large patches of {\it Ulex europaeus} interspersed with areas of short turf. {\it Saxifraga granulata} occured on the verges at the southern and northern ends. {\it Primula veris} was recorded near the western end and {\it Viola riviniana} on the southern end. There were also areas of tall grass and herb vegetation. 

Compartment 4 is the area to the south of compartment 2 (ie. south of the minor road) and bordered to the south by the B1118. There was a ditch along the eastern boundary separating the common from adjoining arable land. This compartment comprised a patchwork of different habitats: dense {\it Prunus spinosa} thickets, {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub, mixed and scattered scrub, a large pond, wet areas dominated by {\it Juncus effusus}, grassland and tall herb. The pond was shallow and until recently had been dominated by {\it Carex riparia}. It was largely surrounded by {\it Prunus spinosa}. Scattered {\it Silaum silaus} was recorded in one open area within the scrub. Also of note was a patch of {\it Thymus polytrichus} growing very close to the road and to the east of a small pit on the northern side of the compartment.

Compartment 5 is bordered to the north by the B1118 and the minor road. It was similar to compartment 4, there being much {\it Ulex europaeus, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Prunus spinosa} scrub which was, as elsewhere, encroaching on the grassland. {\it Ranunculus repens, Potentilla anserina} and {\it Cirsium arvense} occurred locally. The richest grassland was recorded in the middle of the compartment where {\it Silaum silaus, Pulicaria dysenterica} and {\it Viola riviniana} were found. The easternmost part of the compartment was overgrown with rank vegetation such as {\it Hedera helix, Urtica dioica} and {\it Galium aparine} and there was a patch of {\it Conium maculatum} at the southern end. Garden shrubs had been planted on the common outside houses fronting onto it including {\it Laburnum anagyroides, Forsythia} sp. and {\it Rhus typhina}. All the ponds on this compartment were overhung by trees and hence of little interest. The large pond in the south-east was partially invaded by {\it Agrostis stolonifera} and it was thought it would benefit from partial dredging. This pond did receive enough light to support {\it Lemna minor} but would benefit from more thinning of the marginal trees. 

The final compartment to the west of the B1077 is surrounded by houses and had consequently been much altered by mowing by the Council and local residents, dumping of garden rubbish, planting of exotic shrubs (such as {\it Rhus typhina, Salix} sp., {\it Cupressocyparis} hybrid, {\it Fuschia magellanica} and {\it Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora}) and also the grazing of horses. In parts {\it Tilia x vulgaris, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Populus nigra} var. {\it italica} have been planted. The following garden escapes were recorded {\it Aethusa cynapium, Lycopersicon esculentum} and {\it Aegopodium podagraria}. There was some scrub in the eastern part, particularly in a triangular piece of land surrounded by roads. There, scrub and woodland enclosed a wet area overgrown with {\it Epilobium hirsutum} with {\it Juncus} ssp., {\it Veronica anagallis-aquatica} and other damp-loving plants beneath this. Household effluent had found its way into many of the ponds and ditches and the rest were overgrown with grasses or choked with leaves.

The nationally rare* {\it Phleum phleoides} (confirmed) was recorded from the common in 1991.

* Nationally rare species are those occurring in 15 or fewer 10km squares in Britain.

MANAGE:
The southern half of the common appears to be unmanaged, no evidence of recent grazing was seen. In time, the area of scrub will probably increase, and small areas of {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus robur} dominated broadleaved woodland may develop. Part of the common is under arable cultivation. There was an enclosed area at TM133782 which was heavily horse grazed. Unfortunately the 1985 survey was not available to the surveyor at the time of the site visit and it is unknown whether the chalk grassland is still present in the hollows in compartment 2. No ponds were noted during the site visit.

There was much discussion of the management of the common in the 1985 survey report. For many areas, mowing/cutting of coarser areas of vegetation was recommended. The grassland around scrub was generally well grazed by rabbits. The regular mowing of the fairways did not appear to have affected the acid grassland adversely unlike on the tees and greens which had also been 'improved' by the addition of fertilisers or re-turfing. Verges were mown by the Council and it was noted to encourage the Council to cut the appropriate area at a suitable time to maintain the population of {\it Saxifraga granulata}. Some control of gorse was also thought probably neccessary, particularly in the unmanaged areas. The pond in cpmt 4 had had work carried out on it by Manpower Services in the 2 years prior to the survey to clear {\it Carex riparia}. It was also considered to be advantageous to deepen at least part of the pond to create an area of open water. Clearance of scrub and trees from around ponds on other parts of the common was recommended. There were some planted {\it Tilia x vulgaris} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} which had been pollarded in cpmt 6 and there had also been some {\it Alnus glutinosa} planted along the river bank.

Encroachment from adjoining properties was noted with areas regularly mown (some being considered 'beyond redemption') and planting of ornamental shrubs. Some of the adjoining properties had removed boundary fences/hedges. There was also locallised dumping of garden rubbish and pollution of ponds and ditches from household effluent in cpmt 6. There was a small car park alongside the B1118 used by people walking dogs, picnicking and, unfortunately, dumping rubbish. There was a smaller layby used in a similar way on the minor road at the eastern end of the common. Cars were driving onto and parking on cpmt 3 and also leaving litter. It was suggested that if this practise was allowed to continue the area for parking should be clearly defined. Locallised periodic motorbike scrambling was also noted on the southern end of the common.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, magpie, woodpigeon, skylark. Several small blue butterflies were seen. Parts of the common show evidence of heavy rabbit grazing. 

According to the information board, green hairstreak and grayling butterflies are present, also green woodpeckers. The Management Plan lists nightingale, the notable moth {\it Sideridis albicolon} and 18 species of butterfly including white letter hairstreak. The very high public pressure is considered to account for the absence of species such as nightjar, woodlark and wheatear.

The SSSI citation states that the site "supports a good population of Grayling ({\it Hipparchia semele}), a characteristic butterfly of open heathlands."

VEG:
Only a very limited field survey was carried out. The comments below refer to areas visible from the E to W running road only. 

The common appears to contain a substantial area of short acid grassland with scattered scrub, and peripheral areas of dense scrub with scattered trees along the CL boundary. The abundance of flowering {\it Rumex acetosella} in the sward gives the acid grassland an orange-red appearance. Scattered patches (less than 3cm high) of {\it Calluna vulgaris} occur occasionaly in the sward, with occasional {\it Cladonia} sp., {\it Galium verum} and {\it Plantago coronopus}.                                         

The scattered scrub is mostly {\it Ulex europaeus}. The peripheral areas of dense scrub along the CL boundary contain {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Salix} spp. and {\it Ulex europaeus} with scattered {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus robur}. Along the eastern boundary, there is also locally frequent {\it Populus tremula} and occasional {\it Euonymous europaeus}. 

Adjoining the road, and fringing the dense scrub, there are patches of rank grassland dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with locally frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Urtica dioica}, plus occasional {\it Armoracia rusticana}. 

As no further field survey was carried out, the information shown on the map is based on the Suffolk Wildlife Trust NVC survey. The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation for reference:

"Wortham Ling is important for its lowland dry heath and acid grassland communities, which have developed on a sandy, glaciofluvial drift deposit. Although the site is isolated from the Brecklands, lying as it does within a predominantly boulder clay area, the vegetation has close similarites with Breck grass-heaths.

The heathland community is characterised by an abundance of Heather ({\it Calluna vulgaris}) which is present in the full range of age classes, from the classic 'pioneer' to 'degenerate' phases. Associated grasses are generally sparse here but include Sheep's fescue ({\it Festuca ovina}), Common bent-grass ({\it Agrostis capillaris}) and occasionally Wavy hair-grass ({\it Deschampsia flexuosa}). In the open areas within the stands of Heather the ground is occupied by carpets of mosses, mainly {\it Polytrichum} spp. and lichens, particularly {\it Cladonia} spp. which are present in good numbers.

The site's other major plant community is the dry acid grassland which is dominated by a sward of Sheep's fescue with only scattered clumps of Heather. Characteristic species here include abundant Sheep's sorrel ({\it Rumex acetosella}) with frequent Heath bedstraw ({\it Galium saxatile}), Lady's bedstraw ({\it G. verum}), Cat's ear ({\it Hypochaeris radicata}), Ragwort ({\it Senecio jacobaea}) and Yarrow ({\it Achillea millefolium}). Typical associates are Mouse-ear hawkweed ({\it Pilosella officinarum}), Ribwort plantain ({\it Plantago lanceolata}), Harebell ({\it Campanula rotundifolia}) and Bird's foot-trefoil ({\it Lotus corniculatus}) together with Common storksbill ({\it Erodium cicutarium}), Buck's-horn plantain ({\it P. coronopus}) and Wild thyme ({\it Thymus polytrichus}) in some areas. The moss and lichen flora is also a significant element here, especially where intense rabbit grazing maintains a very short, open vegetation.

Additional habitat variety is provided by damper areas supporting a dense growth of Purple-moor grass ({\it Molinia caerulea}), several ponds, ditches and hollows. There are also places where the vegetation indicates more base-rich soils and these are characterised by a mesotrophic sward with Yorkshire fog ({\it Holcus lanatus}), Oat-grass ({\it Arrhenatherum elatius}), Quaking grass ({\it Briza media}), Hardheads ({\it Centaurea nigra}), Devil's bit scabious ({\it Succisa pratensis}), Purging flax ({\it Linum catharticum}) and stemless thistle ({\it Cirsium acaule}). The site is fringed with mixed scrub and clumps of European gorse ({\it Ulex europaeus}) occur throughout." 

The management plan states that nearly 200 species of higher plants have been recorded from the common including many regionally uncommon species including {\it Nardus stricta, Salix repens, Filipendula vulgaris, Cirsium acaule, Dianthus deltoides} (nationally scarce*), {\it Solidago virgaurea, Carex caryophyllea, Danthonia decumbens, Teesdalia nudicaulis} and {\it Trifolium glomeratum}. Also noted in the management plan are the bryophytes {\it Aulocomnium palustre} and {\it Leptodontium gemmascens} (the latter recorded from hollows south of the east-west road) and 12 species of {\it Cladonia}.

*Nationally scarce species are those occurring in between 16 and 100 10km squares in Britain ('Scarce plants in Britain', D.A.Pearman {\it et. al.} (1994), JNCC.)

MANAGE:
No livestock were seen, but parts of the common are obviously heavily grazed; this is due to rabbit grazing according to other sources. The following information concerning management is reproduced from the information board:

"Generations of local people have walked over Wortham Ling, which is a registered 'Common', enjoying the open landscape and its wildlife. In the past, they also gathered wood, cut turves and grazed their animals here. These 'Common Rights' still exist but are no longer exercised.

This is the largest stretch of heathland in the area and supports many interesting plants and animals. It is now a nature reserve cared for by the Suffolk Wildlife Trust and Local volunteers." 

The following information is reproduced from the Management Plan:

"The Ling has suffered greatly from under-management in the last few decades so that scrub encroachment and the more extensive development of coarse mesotrophic grassland is marked. Both processes have been at the expense of the acid and chalk grasslands. The acid and chalk grasslands have in some places a deep thatch of dead grass where rabbits have not been able to graze sufficiently...

...Up to 200 sheep were thought to have grazed here, with a gradual decline after the war. The last sheep were thought to have been removed 20-30 years ago...The very uneven surface of the Ling in the SE corner is due to extraction of sand and gravel for local use. Gorse was regularly burnt to keep the grazing land open." 

Since the SWT took over the management of the site in 1985 management has focussed on control of gorse. The Wildlife Trust is required to maintain open public access to the common. Mowing is recommended for the management of the open heath communities with the removal of cuttings. A three year cycle is proposed with the heath being cut in patches to provide a range of habitat structure for invertebrates. Grazing was not considered feasible due to the requirement for fencing in the light of free public access and also vast numbers of uncontrolled dogs using the common. An annual cut was also recommended for the areas of chalk grassland. 

Scrub removal from the ranker areas of more mesotrophic grassland and management by mowing was recommended. This habitat has expanded in recent years and it is hoped that the more valuable grassland communities will be restored through appropriate management. A fringe of rank grassland is to be left around the periphery to provide an extra element of structural diversity. 

Scrub clearance was considered a high priority, concentrating on areas with good cover of grassland and in particular the more important communities. Scrub on the fringes of the common is to be left, providing shelter for invertebrates and nesting for birds. Large areas of scrub are to be maintained as mosaics of scrub and glades with thinning rather than clearance. It is proposed to leave a few small clumps and individual bushes in all areas to provide cover for rabbits and nesting habitat. In the absence of grazing it is considered necessary to treat the stumps to prevent regrowth. 

Vehicular access onto the common has been controlled by trenching.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, house sparrow, magpie, swallow. Several small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen.

VEG:
The roadside verges border arable fields and support rank grassland with tall ruderal vegetation. Species recorded include abundant {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}, plus frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Ranunculus repens}.

The main area of the common contains a triangular area of grassland enclosed by wide, scrubby hedgerows. The grassland (which was grazed by 1 horse at the time of survey) is dominated by {\it Alopecurus pratensis} and {\it Dactylis glomerata} with frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Achillea millefolium, Centaurea nigra, Ranunculus acris, R. repens, Vicia cracca} and {\it V. sativa}. The surrounding scrubby hedgerows are a mixture of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Sambucus nigra}, with occasional mature trees ({\it Acer campestre, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur}).

MANAGE:
The roadside verges had not been cut recently, but the lack of scrub regeneration suggests that they are cut at least once a year. The main area of the common is used for horse grazing and informal recreation. The grazing is not intense - in general the sward height is at least 10cm. The wide, scrubby hedgerows provide a valuable area of cover for birds and small mammals in a predominantly open, arable landscape.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, chiffchaff, crow, heron, house sparrow, magpie, mallard, moorhen, pheasant, pied wagtail, yellowhammer. Several large white and small copper butterflies were seen, and (around the ponds), several common blue damselflies ({\it Enallagma cyathigerum}) and azure damselflies ({\it Coenagrion puella}). Areas of longer grass contain numerous grasshoppers. There is evidence of rabbit grazing in the eastern quarter of the common.

VEG:
East of gridline TM080, there is a mosaic of semi-improved acid and neutral grassland. The acid grassland is dominated by {\it Festuca} sp., with locally abundant {\it Nardus stricta, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Rumex acetosella} plus locally frequent {\it Pilosella officinarum} and {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}. This grades into semi-improved neutral grassland with abundant {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Achillea millefolium, Ranunculus acris} and {\it Rumex acetosa} plus locally frequent {\it Bromus hordeaceus, Centaurea nigra, Galium verum, Leucanthemum vulgare, Trifolium pratense, T. repens} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys}, and occasional {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii} and {\it Linum catharticum}. The presence of occasional {\it L. catharticum} suggests that the soil may be slightly calcareous in places.

Towards the eastern boundary and north of the A143, there are scattered mature standard trees ({\it Quercus robur, Tilia} sp.) and a pond (TM084773); this is partly shaded by surrounding trees and contains abundant {\it Ranunculus} sp. (water crowfoot) and {\it Rorippa   nasturtium-aquaticum} with frequent {\it Callitriche stagnalis}. There are dense stands of {\it Iris pseudacorus} on its eastern side. {\it Cardamine pratensis} and {\it Pulicaria dysenterica} are frequent in the wet sward on the gently sloping banks. Sheep have access to the pond and land to the north; grazing is controlled by the use of temporary electric fencing. The sports pitch is situated at TM083774; an embankment with {\it Salix} sp. and {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub runs along its SE boundary.     

Semi-improved neutral grassland occupies most of the land to the west of gridline TM080; it contains all the species mentioned in the description of the neutral grassland above, although their disribution is not even and some areas border on being poor semi-improved grassland (B6) in terms of Phase 1 habitat classification. No livestock were seen in this part of the common, but it is likely that all or part is cut for hay. Some areas of sward look as if cutting or grazing took place during the last 2 months, while others, especially on Spear's Hill look uncut (sward height 40 to 60cm). These longer areas of grass contain frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis,  Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Festuca} sp. Just to the south of Spear's Hill (TM070774), there are small areas of dense scrub extending from the CL boundary. These are a mixture of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with frequent {\it Corylus avellana, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Rosa} sp. and {\it Salix} spp. and scattered {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} saplings. Just to the north of the road at this location, there is a small pond shaded by overhanging {\it F. excelsior} and {\it Salix fragilis} which contains abundant {\it Hippuris vulgaris}.

MANAGE:
Part of the common is used for sheep grazing. It is possible that hay is cut during the summer on the rest of the common. Grazing may take place on the aftermath during the autumn or overwinter.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blue tit, chaffinch, chiffchaff, house sparrow, woodpigeon. 2 common frogs and several orange tip butterflies were seen.

VEG:
The sward appears to be a mixture of {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Poa} spp. {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} is abundant around the scattered stands of {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. in the southern half of the common and along the wide, scrubby hedgerow along the NW boundary. The S. half of the common generally looks ungrazed; the N. half looks as if it may have been grazed in places by tethered livestock. Other species recorded in the sward include locally frequent {\it Carex hirta, Achillea millefolium, Agrimonia eupatoria, Centaurea nigra, Glechoma hederacea, Potentilla reptans, Primula veris, Pulicaria dysenterica, Ranunculus acris, R. repens, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys}, plus occasional {\it Carex panicea, Hypericum tetrapterum, Juncus inflexus, Leucanthemum vulgare, Rumex crispus} and {\it Silene vulgaris. Dactylorhiza praetermissa} and {\it Listera ovata} are frequent within about 20m of the ponds and the NW facing boundary hedge. 

The boundary hedge is up to 4m high and wide, and dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Salix} spp., with frequent {\it Clematis vitalba, Humulus lupulus, Prunus spinosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Sambucus nigra}, plus occasional {\it Corylus avellana}. Where visible, the groundflora right under the hedge is a mixture of {\it Geranium robertianum, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Ranunculus ficaria}, with occasional {\it Arum maculatum} and {\it Silene dioica}. Along the edge, there is abundant {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}, with frequent {\it Galium aparine, Stachys sylvatica} and {\it Urtica dioica}.

The two small ponds appear to be about 1m deep at the most, and are joined by a narrow ditch. They contain abundant {\it Ranunculus} sp. (water crowfoot) with occasional {\it Callitriche} sp., and are fringed with frequent {\it Equisetum palustre} and {\it Juncus inflexus}, plus occasional {\it Cardamine pratensis, Epilobium hirsutum, Lycopus europaeus, Mentha aquatica, Ranunculus sceleratus, Scrophularia aquatica, Stachys palustris} and {\it Veronica beccabunga}. The water level is about 10cm lower than the fringing vegetation; it probably recovers during the winter.     

There is a very old {\it Salix fragilis} tree in the central area of the common.

MANAGE:
The northern half of the common looks as if it is grazed from time to time by tethered livestock. No other ongoing management apparent. 

The wide NW facing boundary hedgerow provides a good area of cover for amphibians, birds and small mammals.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, house sparrow, yellowhammer. Several large white and small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen around the tall grass and herb vegetation along the edge of the dense scrub.

VEG:
The discontinuous hedge runs along the west and NW facing boundaries of the arable field. It is dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Ulmus procera}.

On the south side of the access track from the road to Rookery Farm, there is a small area of poor semi-improved grassland (B6). 

The dense scrub on the eastern side of the public road is dominated by {\it Prunus spinosa}, with frequent {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rosa} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., plus scattered {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. Along the road, there are patches (too small to map) of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}, with frequent {\it Centaurea nigra, Chamerion angustifolium, Galium aparine, Heracleum sphondylium, Torillis japonica, Vicia cracca} and {\it V. sativa}.

MANAGE:
It is unlikely that grazing rights are still exercised. The small area of poor semi-improved grassland to the south of the farm access track is the only area suitable for grazing.

Symbols on the 1:10560 Ordnance Survey map used for the CL register suggest the common was once all rough grassland and/or heathland.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, robin, yellowhammer. Several large white and small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen along the hedgerows.

VEG:
The common includes roadside verges with species rich hedgerows for about 0.5km west of the main area (see map). 

The hedgerows are up to 2.5m high and 2m wide (on both sides of the road) and trimmed at least once a year. They are a mixture of {\it Acer campestre, Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna, Lonicera periclymenum, Rosa canina, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Quercus robur}, with occasional {\it Salix cinerea, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ulmus glabra}. The roadside verges are up to 2m wide and mostly dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}, with frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Anthriscus sylvestris, Galium aparine} and {\it Torillis japonica}, plus occasional {\it Epilobium hirsutum}. The lack of encroachment of shrub species on to the verges suggests that they are cut at least once every two years. 

The dense scrub on the main area of the common is dominated by {\it Prunus spinosa}, with frequent {\it Crataegus monogyna, Lonicera periclymenum, Rosa canina, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus}, plus occasional {\it Salix cinerea} and {\it Sambucus nigra}, and scattered young {\it Quercus robur} and coppiced (not recent) {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. There are peripheral stands of tall herb vegetation along the roadside dominated by {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}, with frequent {\it Heracleum sphondylium} and occasional {\it Urtica dioica}.

MANAGE:
Although there is one grazing right, the common now appears to be ungrazed. No management apparent apart from coppicing of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, and cutting of the roadside verges and hedgerows.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: starling, yellowhammer.

VEG:
The grassland on the western side of the road is enclosed by wire fencing and is horse grazed. The sward is generally less than 5cm high and appears to be a mixture of {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Lolium perenne} with locally frequent {\it Glechoma hederacea, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Trifolium repens}, plus occasional {\it Rumex obtusifolius}. The grassland on the eastern side of the road is rank and dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Holcus lanatus} with frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata} and occasional {\it Vicia sativa}. It surrounds the small pond which contains {\it A. elatius} with frequent {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Galium aparine}; this is partly shaded by 3 overhanging mature {\it Salix alba} trees.

MANAGE:
Partly used for horse grazing. It would be desirable to restore an area of open water to the pond if possible, even if it is only seasonal.


VEG:
The hedgerows along Hall Lane are up to 2m high and wide and trimmed at least once a year. They are a mixture of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Quercus robur, Rosa canina, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulmus procera}, plus occasional {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Salix cinerea} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. The roadside verges are between 0.5 and 1.5m wide and dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Dactylis glomerata} with frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Poa} spp., {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Torillis japonica}. The lack of encroachment of shrub species onto the verges suggests that they are cut at least once every two years. 

The dense scrub in the main area of the common is a mixture of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Lonicera periclymenum, Prunus spinosa, Rosa canina, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus} with occasional {\it Salix cinerea} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. There are scattered {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees and small areas of {\it Q. robur} dominated woodland, with frequent {\it Betula} sp. Trunk diameters are mostly in the range 10 to 20cm at chest height. Along the edges of the scrub, there are patches of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}.

MANAGE:
Although there is one grazing right, the common now appears to be ungrazed. No ongoing management apparent, apart from cutting of the hedgerows and verges.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, blue tit, chaffinch, chiffchaff, carrion crow, house sparrow, red-legged partridge, pheasant, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Several rabbits seen.       

Pond 2 (TM324834) has been stocked with goldfish.

VEG:
The hedgerows along the road to the west of St. Margaret South Elmham are mostly between 1.5 and 2.5m high and up to 2m wide; they look as if they are trimmed at least once a year. A few short lengths reach a height of 4m. The hedgerows are dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and/or {\it Prunus spinosa}, with frequent {\it Acer campestre, Fraxinus excelsior, Lonicera periclymenum, Quercus robur, Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Tamus communis} and {\it Ulmus procera}, plus occasional {\it Cornus sanguinea}. There are occasional mature standard {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} trees. The verges appear to be mown at least once a year and are dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Holcus lanatus}, with frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Poa} spp., {\it Aegopodium podagraria, Anthriscus sylvestris, Galium aparine, Glechoma hederacea, Heracleum sphondylium, Mercurialis perennis, Ranunculus repens, Silene dioica, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Urtica dioica}. Verges outside residential properties in St. Margaret South Elmham are managed as amenity grassland. The hedges bordering gardens are trimmed much more frequently than those described above and contain fewer shrub species.

The grassland on St Margaret's Green (TM322835) had been cut recently and the cuttings removed; it is possible that some herb species have been under recorded. The dominant grass species appears to be {\it Holcus lanatus}. There is locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Dactylis glomerata, Deschampsia cespitosa, Achillea millefolium, Centaurea nigra, Plantago lanceolata, Potentilla anserina, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Rumex acetosa}, plus occasional {\it Lathyrus pratensis, Primula veris, Silaum silaus} and {\it Tragopogon pratensis}. Within 2m of the boundary hedgerows, the sward contains occasional {\it Agrimonia eupatoria} and the nationally scarce* {\it Trifolium ochroleucon}. 1 {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} sapling has been planted on the Green, and there is also a stand of {\it Pinus} sp. trees (too small to map) and {\it Quercus robur}.  

2 ponds were found on the common. Pond 1 (TM323836) is partly shaded by overhanging {\it Salix} sp. scrub. It contains occasional {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica, Sparganium erectum} and {\it Typha latifolia}. Where it is not heavily shaded, the bank supports dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and occasional {\it Stachys palustris}. Pond 2 (TM324834) is unshaded and contains abundant {\it Glyceria fluitans} and {\it Potamogeton natans}, with frequent {\it Carex otrubae, Juncus inflexus} and {\it Mentha aquatica} at the waters edge. The bank supports rank {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}, with occasional {\it Epilobium hirsutum, Lotus pedunculatus, Stachys palustris} and {\it Vicia sativa}. 

* Nationally scarce species are those occurring in between 16 and 100 10km squares in Britain (D.A.Pearman {\it et al} 'Scarce Plants in Britain', JNCC, 1994).

MANAGE:
The hedgerows and verges appear to be cut at least once a year. No livestock were seen. St Margaret's Green appears to be being managed for hay production. Grazing may take place on the autumn aftermath or overwinter. The presence {\it Trifolium ochroleucron} around the edges of the Green suggest that the sward may once have been more calcareous in nature; other calcicole species may have been lost due to partial agricultural improvement.

The generally dense hedgerows provide a good area of cover for birds and small mammals.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, chiffchaff, house sparrow, woodpigeon, yellowhammmer.

VEG:
No detailed survey was carried out. The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

"This site contains a very valuable example of a species rich, spring fed valley fen, with areas of fen grassland and relict heath... The species rich fen comunity which occupies the central area is dominated by Saw sedge ({\it Cladium mariscus}) and Reed ({\it Phragmites australis}) with abundant Blunt-flowered rush ({\it Juncus subnodulosus}). Other species include Black bog rush ({\it Schoenus nigricans}), Marsh marigold ({\it Caltha palustris}), Grass of parnassus ({\it Parnassia palustris}), Marsh valerian ({\it Valeriana dioica}), Southern marsh orchid ({\it Dactylorhiza praetermissa}), Fragrant orchid ({\it Gymnadenia conopsea}), and the locally rare Narrow-leaved marsh orchid ({\it D. traunsteiri}, nationally scarce*). The Greater tussock sedge ({\it Carex paniculata}) is prominent in parts of this area and there are also scattered patches of {\it Sphagnum} moss with Common sundew ({\it Drosera rotundifolia}) associated with them. The locally rare cowbane ({\it Cicuta virosa}, nationally scarce*) also occurs in these areas. The chalk springs feed into the fen on its western side and these seepage areas are very wet.

A smaller area of less species-rich, eutrophic fen occurs in the north eastern part of the site and the wetter parts of this are characterised by Great reedmace ({\it Typha latifolia}), Yellow iris ({\it Iris pseudacorus}) and Marsh horsetail ({\it Equisetum palustre}). 

Tall fen grasslands dominated by a variety of grasses, rushes and sedges cover low-lying ground in several of the surrounding meadows. Much of this is currently ungrazed and is often tall and rank. Soft rush ({\it Juncus effusus}), Yorkshire fog ({\it Holcus lanatus}), Hairy sedge ({\it Carex hirta}) and Meadowsweet ({\it Filipendula ulmaria}) are the most abundant and widespread species. Reed sweet grass ({\it Glyceria maxima}) and Hard Rush ({\it Juncus inflexus}) are locally dominant. Other frequent species include Meadow vetchling ({\it Lathyrus uliginosum} - should be {\it L. pratensis}? - incorrect name given in SSSI citation?), Valerian ({\it Valeriana officinalis}) and Water mint ({\it Mentha aquatica}).

Towards the edges of the site this type of vegetation merges into damp neutral grasslands. The drier parts, especially those that are under-grazed, are dominated by False oat grass ({\it Arrhenatherum elatius}). The wetter areas in the south eastern parts of the site are dominated by Sweet vernal grass ({\it Anthoxanthum odoratum}), Yorkshire Fog and Red fescue ({\it Festuca rubra}). This area is grazed and very species rich. Species recorded include large bird's foot trefoil ({\it Lotus pendunculatus}), Yellow rattle ({\it Rhinanthus minor}), Common spotted orchid ({\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii}) and Southern marsh orchid ({\it Dactylorhiza praetermissa}).

Relict heath communities to the north-west and south-east of the site have been heavily invaded by bracken along with gorse and hawthorn scrub. Some areas of bracken are now being cleared and acidic grassland is re-developing. Older established areas of acidic grassland contain Heather ({\it Calluna vulgaris}), Petty whin ({\it Genista anglica}) and Mouse ear hawkweed ({\it Pilosella officinarum}). Where chalk comes close to the surface the grassland is covered in anthills and contains frequent Wild thyme ({\it Thymus drucei}) and cowslip ({\it Primula veris}).

A small stream with good marginal and aquatic vegetation passes through the site. This stream is the main outlet for water from the site and the water level in it is close to that of the surrounding surface.

Additional diversity is provided by a series of small wet hollows along the southern margin of the site, many of which contain standing water. These support a rich flora including gypsywort ({\it Lycopus europaeus}), Water forget-me-not ({\it Myosotis scorpioides}), Greater tussock sedge and two locally uncommon spcies, Bogbean ({\it Menyanthes trifoliata}) and Marsh cinquefoil ({\it Potentilla palustris}).

Secondary woodland and scrub have developed on several marginal areas. On drier parts this consists mainly of Oak, Sycamore and Birch and is species poor. Wetter parts support Willow and Alder carr. These areas are floristically much more diverse. The understorey contains a mixture of Wild Privet ({\it Ligustrum vulgare}), Alder buckthorn ({\it Frangula alnus}), Buckthorn ({\it Rhamnus catharticus}) and Guelder rose ({\it Viburnum opulus}). The ground flora includes many characteristic wet woodland fen species.

The whole of the notified area is a hydrological unit. The marginal habitats ensure that the water table in the centre of the site remains fairly constant and that the water which supplies it is relatively unpolluted...."

In addition to the species mentioned above, the following were seen from the footpath (first 200m from the road) which crosses the northern half of the common: {\it Apium nodiflorum, Caltha palustris, Pedicularis} sp. and {\it Succisa pratensis}; and on higher, drier ground: {\it Agrostis capillaris, Deschampsia flexuosa, Galium saxatile, Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. 

* Nationally scarce species are those occurring in between 16 and 100 10km squares in Britain (D.A.Pearman {\it et al} 'Scarce Plants in Britain', JNCC, 1994).

MANAGE:
The common is owned and managed by the Suffolk Wildlife Trust. Of all the fens in the Waveney/Ouse valley, it is described in the SSSI citation to have been the least affected by drainage or water abstraction. The water-table remains high and stable throughout the year and this is reflected in the rich and varied flora of the site.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: black headed gull, chiffchaff, house sparrow, pheasant, yellowhammer. Several small tortoiseshell butterflies seen, also several rabbits. Areas of longer grass contain numerous grasshoppers.

VEG:
The largest area of dry heath is situated in the western half of the common. It is dominated by {\it Erica cinerea} with locally abundant {\it Calluna vulgaris, Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca} sp. and frequent {\it Galium saxatile, Rumex acetosella} and {\it Potentilla erecta}, plus occasional {\it Molinia caerulea}. The heath looks as if it is subject to occasional livestock grazing. Overall cover of dwarf shrub species is in the range 60 to 80 percent; height is in the range 10 to 30cm. There are fragments (too small to map) of dry heath on other parts of the common

The unimproved acid grassland is dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca} sp. with abundant {\it Rumex acetosella} plus frequent {\it Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}, plus occasional {\it Molinia caerulea}. There is also scattered {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus}. Sward height is variable - in the more open areas it is generally less than 5cm high; this may be due to more to rabbit grazing than livestock grazing.

The dense scrub is dominated by {\it Ulex europaeus}, with locally frequent {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rosa} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., plus occasional {\it Cytisus scoparius, Lonicera periclymenum, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Sambucus nigra}, and scattered {\it Betula pendula} saplings. Around the edges of the dense scrub, there are often small areas of longer grass ({\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus}) with frequent {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}. There are also areas of dense, continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum}; the most extensive is on the south side of the public road which runs E-W across the common.

The pond at TM424749 contains abundant {\it Glyceria fluitans} and {\it Ranunculus} sp. (water crowfoot) with occasional {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica, Glyceria maxima} and {\it Iris pseudacorus}. Around the waters edge, there is frequent {\it Crassula helmsii, Eleocharis palustris, Juncus acutiflorus, J. articulatus} and {\it Mentha aquatica}. The bank supports tall grass and herb vegetation ({\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus lanatus, Urtica dioica}) with scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg.   

The small, scattered areas of broadleaved woodland on the common are dominated by {\it Betula pendula} with frequent {\it Quercus robur} plus occasional {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. Trunk diameters are generally less than 10cm at chest height.

MANAGE:
The more open areas of the common, where dry heath and unimproved acid grassland predominate are probably subject to occasional livestock grazing. 

Evidence of rabbit habitation and grazing was seen; rabbits appear to be exerting the most influence on the common with respect to grazing.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, chiffchaff, house sparrow, partridge, skylark, swallow, woodpigeon, yellowhammer. Blue-tailed and azure damselflies ({\it Ischnura elegans, Coenagrion puella}) were seen along the ditches, which contain numerous tadpoles. 

According to the notice at the entrance gate, "In the centre of the marsh, an area of open water from November to May attracts birds and duck, snipe and other waders are common. Deer and hares are regular visitors and heron and kingfishers are frequent. The dykes have fish and water vole."  The following might also be seen at the appropriate times of year: shelduck, mallard, frogs and toads, sticklebacks, wheatear, meadowlark (?), swift, pike, dace, fountain snail.

VEG:
The most abundant grass species in the cattle grazed semi-improved neutral grassland in the western section of the common appear to be {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Poa} spp. In the wettest areas, {\it Alopecurus geniculatus} is locally abundant. Other species recorded include locally abundant {\it Juncus effusus} (which forms patches of marshy grassland in the northern half), {\it Potentilla anserina, Ranunculus acris, R. repens} and {\it Trifolium repens}, plus locally frequent {\it Carex hirta, Festuca} sp., {\it Juncus inflexus, Cardamine pratensis, Cerastium fontanum} ssp. {\it holosteoides, Filipendula ulmaria, Glyceria} sp., {\it Pulicaria dysenterica, Rumex acetosa, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Trifolium pratense}. There is also occasional {\it Angelica sylvestis} and {\it Lychnis flos-cuculi}. In the southern half of the section, there are scattered stands of {\it Cirsium arvense} and {\it Urtica dioica}.

Perhaps the most botanically interesting features of this section of the common are the drainage ditches. A narrow ditch (about 2m wide) crosses the common in a roughly E-W direction. It is fringed with clumps of {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it J. inflexus}, plus frequent {\it Alopecurus geniculatus, Cirsium palustre, Epilobium hirsutum, Equisetum palustre, Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Veronica beccabunga}, plus occasional {\it Iris pseudacorus}.

Along the western boundary, there is a much wider ditch (3 to 5m) which is notable for the presence of abundant {\it Hottonia palustris}. The water also contains frequent {\it Apium nodiflorum, Callitriche stagnalis} and {\it Glyceria fluitans}, plus occasional {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica, Sparganium erectum} and {\it Nuphar lutea}. It is fringed with clumps of {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it J. inflexus}, with frequent {\it Equisetum palustre, Mentha aquatica, Solanum dulcamara} and {\it Veronica beccabunga}, plus occasional {\it Carex otrubae, Angelica sylvestris, Phalaris arundinacea, Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Scrophularia aquatica}. The NE bank is cattle grazed and generally grassy ({\it Arrhenatherum elatius/Dactylis glomerata/Holcus lanatus}), with patches of {\it Epilobium hirsutum, Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Pulicaria dysenterica. Ranunculus sceleratus} is often present on areas of bare ground exposed by cattle trampling. The opposite bank supports overhanging {\it Crataegus monogyna}, much of which appears to be dying, perhaps due to an increased water level (see management section). 

Most of this section is enclosed by {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominated hedgerows. The tallest (along the road on the SE side) is up to 3m high and 2m wide and also contains frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Salix} spp. and {\it Sambucus nigra}.

According to the notice at the entrance gate, the following might be seen at the appropriate times of year: Coltsfoot ({\it Tussilago farfara}), aquatic mosses, orchids, Marsh marigolds ({\it Caltha palustris}), Lesser spearwort ({\it Ranunculus flammula}), Maiden hair-grass ({\it Briza media}) and purple loosestrife ({\it Lythrum salicaria}).

The scattered scrub in the smaller section to the east of the railway is mostly {\it Crataegus monogyna}, with frequent {\it Prunus spinosa, Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and occasional {\it Corylus avellana}. There are also scattered young {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} trees, with two semi-mature {\it Salix alba} trees, and occasional {\it Pinus} sp. saplings, which may have been planted. The scrub is growing in a mixture of tall herb vegetation and tall grasses; the most abundant species are {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Anthriscus sylvestris, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Urtica dioica}.

MANAGE:
The following information is given on the notice at the entrance gate: "In 1993, the Countryside Commission awarded Thrandeston Parish Council a grant for a ten year management plan to restore the water level, lowered by several drought years and the dredging of The Beck. The work is being carried out by local volunteers and the Upper Waveney Valley Project. By the winter of 1994, the increased water level had already promoted the growth of Marsh marigolds ({\it Caltha palustris}) that had nearly all dissappeared two years before, and in time it is hoped that many other of the lost plants will return too."


