# file3

FAUNA:
Birds: Part of BTO site which held typical woodland birds including warblers, tits, Turtle Dove, Lesser-spotted Woodpecker, Nightingale, Redstart and Redpoll in 1968-76. On our visit Great Tit, Collared Dove, Jay, Nuthatch, Song Thrush, Wood Pigeon, Blue Tit, Moorhen, Goldcrest, Blackbird, Blackcap, Tree Creeper, Magpie, Greenfinch, House Sparrow, Yellowhammer, Linnet, Robin and Bullfinch noted. 
Also Grey Squirrel and Rabbit. 
Lepidoptera: Meadow Brown, Large White, Green-veined White, Speckled Wood and Common Blue. 
Orthoptera: Pholidoptera griseoaptera.

VEG:
The common is very complex and diffuse consisting mainly of linear wooded and grassland strips along roads and tracks amounting to a considerable area of land in total. Parcel descriptions are as follows, starting in the north, then moving from east to west. Area (A): a small garden, enclosed and apparently not true common land now. Area (B): a small area of woodland adjacent to CL 15. It is dominated by beech and ash with elder much Hedera helix, Mercurialis perennis, Sanicula europaea, Rubus fruticosus and Viburnum lantana. There is some tidied storm damage, dead wood, and bare chalky ground. Area (C) lies on both sides of the road and is MG1 Arrhenatherum elatius grassland with bordering thick hedges with elder, hazel, some hawthorn, sycamore, horse chestnut and ash standards over dry ditches, with Urtica dioica and Alliaria petiolata. Clematis vitalba is frequent.  Area (D): a broad roadside strip along the A4, with scattered blackthorn and hawthorn scrub over MG1 Arrhenatherum elatius grassland, which is quite open in places. It is generally rank and species-poor. The extreme eastern tip of (D) was not surveyed, but appeared similar.

Area (E): the northern triangle is A111 woodland, dominated by oak, ash, elder and hawthorn, with Urtica dioica frequent in the shady ground layer. This becomes a path to the south, with MG1 Arrhenatherum grassland and Urtica, with scattered Pteridium aquilinum and scattered blackthorn, elder and hawthorn scrub. Other species present include Alliaria petiolata, Geum urbanum and Hedera helix. The track becomes roughly surfaced south of the nursery, and opens into rank MG1 Arrhenatherum grassland at the south end.

Area (F): a thin strip of roadside grassland running round VG 18, a close-mown area of improved grassland containing a cricket pitch. The strip of common land is also close-mown improved grassland and house frontages.

Area (G): a continuation of (D), a wide roadside area of semi-improved neutral grassland with Rubus fruticosus and scrub, principally hawthorn and blackthorn.

Area (H) consists of clumps of woodland and scrub interspersed with B22 grassland (MG1 Arrhenatherum grassland). The woodland is largely oak dominated, and scrub is composed of hawthorn and blackthorn. Urtica dioica and Pteridium aquilinum are frequent. An area of MG1 grassland has been disturbed, with rubble dumped. Dipsacus fullonum, Pteridium aquilinum and Ulex europaeus are present here.

Area (I) is found on both sides of the road, and is wide MG1 Arrhenatherum elatius grassland with scattered oaks. On south-east side, there is more scrub, mainly oak and elder, with some gorse in areas where the soil appears more acidic.

Area (J) is an interesting patch of open, rank B5 marshy grassland with scattered scrub (gorse) and trees (birch and ash). The grassland is dominated by Juncus effusus and Holcus lanatus, with Chamerion angustifolium, Rubus fruticosus, Juncus articulatus, Deschampsia cespitosa, Juncus conglomeratus, Agrostis capillaris and scattered Pteridium aquilinum and Senecio jacobaea. The south-western end is dominated by shady oak, ash and sycamore woodland with much Rubus beneath.

Area (K) is assumed to be the east side of the road. It is close-mown MG1 Arrhenatherum  or MG7 Lolium perenne grassland, with thick (5m) A21 scrub, dominated by blackthorn, hawthorn, elder, ash, hazel, with Pteridium, Hedera helix, Clematis vitalba and Rubus fruticosus. To the north-west, this becomes woodland as it merges with area (O).

Area (L): dense scrubby woodland, with ash, beech, field maple, and hazel, and containing an old dried-up pond. The canopy is dense, and ground flora is sparse, with Epipactus helleborine, Carex sylvatica, Rubus fruticosus, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Lonicera periclymenum, Solanum dulcamara, Galeobdolon luteum. At the north-west end (area (M)), it becomes a thin, overcrowded beech plantation, with Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Mercurialis perennis and Brachypodium sylvaticum beneath.

Area (N): mature oaks are present on the north side, with beech along the southern boundary bank. All of this stretch extending to CL 8 is wooded, with ditches and boundary banks on each side. Typical ground layer species include Urtica dioica, Rubus fruticosus, Pteridium aquilinum, Poa trivialis, Euphorbia amygdaloides, Sanicula europaea, Oxalis acetosella, Hedera helix, Geranium robertianum, Stachys sylvatica and Lonicera periclymenum.

Area (O) is more extensive woodland, dominated by oak and willow. Drainage is impeded in places. Urtica dioica is the dominant ground layer species, with Polygonum hydropiper on rutted tracks. A range of scrub species occur as understory along the road.

Area (P) just west of Warren Row is similar dense oak woodland.

Much of the area around Cockpole Green is similar woodland - dense oak and ash, with scrub and Urtica understory, with suckering Ulmus procera in places.

Area (Q), Cockpole Green, is unmown MG1 Arrhenatherum elatius grassland with scattered trees and scrub (elder, hawthorn) and some tree planting. Parts are mown along the road edges. Some of the grassland is moderately species-rich in places, with Centaurea nigra, Knautia arvensis, Achillea millefolium, Leucanthemum vulgare, Torilis japonica and Armoracia rusticana.

Area (R) along the trackway almost to Knowl Hill is mainly oak woodland over nettles and MG1 grassland. There is some hornbeam and beech, with one area of laurel. There are boundary banks on both sides. Other species present include Deschampsia cespitosa, Bromus ramosus, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Ranunculus repens, Agrostis capillaris, Rubus idaeus and Alliaria petiolata.

Area (S) is generally close-mown, semi-improved grassland, scrubby at the northern end, with a ditch containing Typha latifolia.

MANAGE:
Most woodland and scrub areas are not managed, but grassland strips, especially those along surfaced roads, are mown with varying degrees of frequency, some very closely, but others perhaps only once per year. There has been some storm damage to trees, which has generally been tidied. There is much dumping of rubbish, and some disturbance due to car parking. Tree planting of sycamore, copper beech and horse chestnut has occurred in area (Q). Some of the woodland areas need thinning, and generally, dumped rubbish needs clearing. Other than these recommendations, present management should continue.


FAUNA:
No information specific to the common but likely to be similar to CL 13 which almost surrounds the common.

VEG:
Most of the common is a dense stand of even-aged Betula pubescens with occasional mature Quercus robur, Acer pseudoplatanus and Sorbus aucuparia. There is very occasional Populus tremula towards the south. The canopy is closed and shrub layer depleted; occasional Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium and young canopy trees. Ground flora dominated by Rubus fruticosus, Pteridium aquilinum and Lonicera periclymenum; also Holcus mollis, Poa trivialis, Oxalis acetosella, Lysimachia nemorum, Luzula pilosa, L.multiflora, Vaccinium myrtillus and Carex laevigata. In south-west corner is a small area of old Alnus glutinosa coppice with Quercus, Acer pseudoplatanus and Fraxinus excelsior. Ground layer wetter with Deschampsia cespitosa, Juncus effusus, Cirsium palustre, Ajuga reptans, Carex sylvatica and Euphorbia amygdaloides.

MANAGE:
The area is apparently unmanaged. Some woodland thinning is necessary.


FAUNA:
Part of an ISR butterfly site, but not clear which records relate specifically to the common. There are records of Purple Emperor, White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary, Grayling and Grizzled Skipper.  
Metrioptera brachyptera (Orthoptera) also recorded.  
Breeding birds include Woodcock and Nightjar. On visit Wood Pigeon, Long-tailed Tit, Wren.
Also Rabbit noted.

VEG:
The bulk of the common is dominated by woodland and scrub with some relict areas of heathland. Much of the site lies within the Greenham Common SSSI. In the north of the CL unit area (A) is an area of birch and oak woodland with Ulex europaeus scrub and rough semi-improved grassland. There are several trackways and paths, and some gardens appear to be included within the common. Some scattered Scot's Pine is present. Grassland areas are mainly MG1 Arrhenatherum elatius communities with a range of species including Daucus carota, Achillea millefolium, Centaurium erythraea, Hypericum perforatum, Senecio jacobaea, Potentilla sterilis, Malva moschata, Agrimonia eupatoria, Cytisus scoparius, Pteridium aquilinum, Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, Digitalis purpurea, Lonicera periclymenum, Echium vulgare and Torilis japonica. Parts show influence of relict heath, others the effect of disturbance.  Areas (B) and (C) are very small areas of birch and oak scrub, with Ulex europaeus. Areas (D) and (E) are both mown improved grassland, dominated by Lolium perenne communities. Area (D) has scattered oak, lime and scots pine trees. Area (F): a small area of secondary woodland, largely birch dominated, which was not surveyed.

Areas (G), (H), (I), (J) and (K) lie within  the SSSI: Area (G) is mainly birch, oak, and beech woodland, with sweet chestnut, scots pine and willow. The eastern fringes consist of heathland with scattered trees and scrub. Area (H) has the fringes of an alder-lined gully in the west, and grades eastwards, through birch and mixed birch-oak-scots pine woodland, open heath with Calluna vulgaris and Pteridium aquilinum, to mixed woodland once more, then a classic deep alder lined gully in Aldernbridge Gully. The head of the alder gully (Area (I)) has much Betula sp., with frequent Pteridium aquilinum and Rubus fruticosus, grading down into the alder gully proper, with Salix capraea. The A13 mixed woodland has birch, scots pine and sweet chestnut, with Pteridium and Rubus beneath.

Area (J) consists of remnant open heath with scrub and Pteridium, grading downslope into birch woodland with bracken ground flora. Finally area (K) is mainly dry heath, with Calluna, Erica cinerea and Ulex minor, with scattered U. europaeus and birch, surrounded by encroaching scrub and trees. It includes the eastern end of the woodland called Clarke's Gully.

The SSSI as a whole is important for its remnant heathland and alder gullies forming a mosaic with drier woodland areas. The gully woodlands have a rich and varied flora, including Sphagnum spp., several species of ferns, Viola palustris, Chrysosplenium alternifolium, Carex strigosa, C. laevigata, Scirpus sylvaticus and Equisetum sylvaticum, several of which are very uncommon in central England. The site contains the bulk of the remnant dry heathland of Greenham Common lying outside the air base. The heath is dominated mainly by Calluna vulgaris, with Erica cinerea, Ulex minor and areas of acidic grassland containing Vulpia bromoides, Aira praecox and Carex pilulifera. Some parts of the heath are rather wetter. Much of the heathland is now overgrown with birch and oak scrub, and bracken.

Area (L) consists largely of secondary woodland, with some cleared strips and roadside verges. Road verge at junction in south-east is an MG1 Arrhenatherum community, with a range of species, sometimes associated with disturbance; species present include Pastinacea sativa, Torilis japonica, Achillea millefolium, Daucus carota, Lotus corniculatus, Leucanthemum vulgare, Angelica sylvestris, Stachys sylvatica and Vicia cracca. The rest of this area is mainly birch and oak woodland, with areas of scrub understory, such as blackthorn, elder and Ulex europaeus. Parts have dense Rubus fruticosus understory, but other areas have bare ground due to shading. A cleared strip under telegraph wires has regenerating birch, but also Molinia caerulea and Holcus lanatus. At the entrance to the base, around the peace camp, there is rank MG1 Arrhenatherum grassland and gorse scrub, which grades into scrub, then woodland.

MANAGE:
Part of (A) has been surfaced in the past with gravel. Areas (D) and (E) are mown. In area (G), in 1988, an NCC MSC team carried out firebreak mowing, scrub clearance, ride coppicing and planted some native trees. Sycamore and Rhododendron clearance was also carried out. Berkshire County Council is presently preparing a management plan for the Newbury District Council part, for which byelaws exist. The priorities of the plan are to reinstate burnt areas, manage heather, control motorbike access, and prevent spread of bracken and scrub. The alder gullies should also be preserved; there has been some runoff and pollution from the air base. Parts of the common have been cleared for airbase security and by peace campers. Main priorities should be to keep open the heathland areas, and perhaps rotationally burn parts of the heather. Woodland could be thinned in places.


FAUNA:
In 1968-76 flocks of over 1000 Lapwing and over 100 Golden plover wintered on grassland within the airfield, with Finch and Pippet flocks. Linnet, Yellowhammer and Tree Pipit had dense breeding populations, and Nightjar and Stonechat bred. More recently Lapwing has bred, and Nightjar still occurs, as does Nightingale.  On my visit, the following species were noted: Long-tailed Tit, Swallow, Blue Tit, Coal Tit, Wren, Great Tit, Tree Creeper, Wood Pigeon, Jackdaw, Magpie, Bullfinch.  Common Shrew also noted.  According to NCC records, the common may have held Silver-studded Blue in the past, and may hold the bush cricket Metrioptera brachyptera. It is likely that the alder gullies within the base may hold interesting invertebrates, as may the extensive bare sandy areas on the base and the wet sandy pools around area (D). During the present visit, the following invertebrates were noted: Lepidoptera: Common Blue, Gatekeeper, Peacock, Large White, Green-veined White, Meadow Brown, and 2 Graylings in area (I). Odonata: Anax imperator, Coenagrion puella and Sympetrum striolatum in area (D), and Cordulegaster boltonii in both alder gullies (A) and (B). Orthoptera: Chorthippus brunneus.

NCC records also suggest that the ponds on the common probably support Palmate Newts, the gully woodlands support Dormice, and that Grizzled and Dingy Skippers are almost certainly present.

VEG:
All of the common lies within the airbase perimeter fence, and a rapid survey was carried out of the most easily accessible areas. Some of the deeper gullies were not explored in any detail. Within the base the main features of interest are the extensive areas of dry acidic grassland/heathland mosaic between the runways, which together with the contiguous heathland in CL 60 forms probably the largest area of scrub-free heath and acidic grassland in Berkshire although it is mown extremely closely. The alder-lined gullies are also notable features in a central England context. The rest of the base is primarily covered in tarmac (runways) improved or semi-improved grassland or buildings of various kinds, both military and domestic. Even the semi-improved grassland is of some interest, since it has largely been affected by runoff and not by reseeding.  Area (A): a gully grading from dry woodland to wet alder woodland down the valley sides. Upper edges are oak, birch and sycamore, with some planted laurel (and other trees), with Pteridium aquilinum or semi-improved acidic grassland underneath. Other trees include scots pine and some mature Salix capraea. The bank tops hold Calluna vulgaris and Centaurium erythraea, but are rather weedy with ruderals in places, and blackthorn scrub is frequent. Dense Urtica dioica and Rubus fruticosus, with much peripheral dumping, make the gully extremely difficult to enter. At the base of the gully lies alder woodland along the stream, which was flowing, despite dry weather. Ranunculus repens is very abundant, with Ranunculus flammula, Valeriana officinalis, Cirsium palustre, Mentha aquatica, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Dryopteris dilatata, Digitalis purpurea and Circaea lutetiana. Elder and a few oaks are present. Not fully surveyed, but the area is of considerable interest.

Area (B): A similar gully, with birch woodland over Pteridium and a fringe of ruderals (thistles, Senecio jacobaea, Echium vulgare) at the top of the gully sides, grading downslope into an alder dominated woodland, with a shady stream full of iron-staining bacteria. Equisetum sp. is dominant, with clumps of Juncus effusus, scattered Salix cinerea, Rubus fruticosus, Carex remota, dense mats of Juncus bulbosus, Carex echinata, Holcus lanatus, Prunella vulgaris, Solanum dulcamara, Ranunculus repens, Menyanthes trifoliata, Scrophularia aquatica. At the lower end of (B), the gully is very wet and muddy - additional species here include Polgonum hydropiper, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium and Cardamine pratensis. This gully was not surveyed fully, and needs further investigation.
CL 55 (continued)

Area (C): An area of tree planting (ash, sycamore, conifers) over ruderals on gravels and remnant heath, with some Calluna and frequent Lotus corniculatus, Senecio jacobaea and Echium vulgare.

Area (D): Locally termed "The Swamp", this is a rough training area for lorries and tracked vehicles. There are scattered oaks and birch, with patches of Pteridium, but the main feature is large areas of bare ground, muddy ruts, sandy banks and pools. The ruts are full of Juncus spp., and drier areas have Calluna, Erica spp. etc. There are many pools, with dragonflies; some have sandy fringes, others muddy edges. Some are vegetated, but other are very recent. Species present in the pools and puddles include Juncus effusus, Alisma plantago-aquatica, Lythrum portula and some dense areas of Eleocharis palustris. There are some scattered willows, and some dumped equipment and rubbish.

Area (E) is composed of an area of mixed woodland and the head of an alder gully, both of which extend outside the base. The remainder of this area, just to the north-east, is close-mown, semi-improved acidic grassland, surrounding fences and structures connected with the air base. The head of the alder gully has much Betula sp., with frequent Pteridium aquilinum and Rubus fruticosus, grading down into the alder gully proper, with Salix capraea. The A13 mixed woodland has birch, scots pine and sweet chestnut, with Pteridium and Rubus beneath.

Area (F) consists of completely enclosed bunkers, with almost all natural vegetation now gone. It is very large, and once contained heathland and a wooded gully. There are some areas of semi-improved acidic grassland, and one patch of scrub.

Area (G) consists of the typical semi-improved acidic grassland found in many parts of the base. It is close-mown, and varies in its species-richness from place to place, but is dominated by Anthoxanthum odoratum, Festuca ovina, Cynosurus cristatus, with Trifolium spp., Plantago lanceolata, Hypochaeris radicata, Lotus corniculatus, Centaurium erythraea and a range of other species.

Areas (H), (I) and (J) describe the bulk of the heath and heathy grassland found between the runways. All are close-mown, but almost entirely unimproved. The soil is very dry, but appears to have a mixture of acidic gravels and chalk, giving rise to a mix of calcicolous and calcifugous species. Parts may have been burned in the past, and bare ground has quite a high cover all over, with flints and flaking mud. The grass component becomes stronger towards the main runway, possibly due to runoff leading to more lush grass growth. The stippled areas indicate where the heath component of the sward is higher - this has been plotted from 1986 aerial photographs. Area (H) has around 2% Calluna vulgaris, 1% Erica cinerea and occasional prostrate Ulex minor. The rest of the sward has much Agrostis capillaris, Festuca ovina, Hypochaeris radicata, Centaurium erythraea, Centaurea nigra, and some Trifolium repens, mainly on the edges. Polytrichum moss (?alpestre) is frequent. Anthyllis vulneraria, Aira caryophyllea and Daucus carota are scattered. Area (I) has Calluna cover around 10%, and holds similar species. It is very rich in Anthyllis vulneraria, Lotus corniculatus, Linum catharticum, Euphrasia officinalis, with Veronica officinalis, Arenaria serpyllifolia, Achillea millefolium, Centaurium erythraea, Carex flacca, Hypericum pulchrum, Hieracium pilosella and Carlina vulgaris. Danthonia decumbens is frequent. Area (J) has around 20% cover of Calluna, with much bare sand and earth, and a similar species composition.

These grass heath areas are very colourful, and provide an extensive area of a habitat which is very limited in extent in the county. They were very rich in Orthoptera and some Hymenoptera, and Graylings were seen here. A more detailed survey would undoubtedly lead to additional species of interest being found.

Additional notes from NCC relating to the airbase as a whole suggest that Vulpia bromoides, Saxifraga granulata and Trifolium striatum are present or likely to be present, and that further survey of the the grassland areas in spring would yield additional vernal ephemerals. The wooded gullies on the site may hold Carex binervis and C. laevigata.

MANAGE:
Within the perimeter fence, most areas are close-mown, including the heath and heathy grassland. There has been much building work, ground disturbance and habitat loss within the base, and dumping in gullies, which have also been subject to pollution in runoff. There has been some localised burning. Some quite large areas of trees have been planted to screen buildings. Given its present role, few major changes can be recommended. Leaving longer areas of heath is not acceptable to MOD due to bird hazard. However, efforts should be made to safeguard gullies.
 
At present, almost all of the heathland and heathy grassland on the base is extremely short, following decades of mowing. However, this means that it is also completely free from scrub. If it is possible to vary the mowing regime, and allow small areas to grow longer to increase structural variation, then this would encourage some plants to flower well and benefit some invertebrates. This may be possible in the central parts of the heath between the runways, where there are often hollows which would be suitable for longer vegetation. Cutting should still occur, but less frequently than elsewhere. It is important to emphasise the importance of the gullies too, and prevent them being used as convenient places to dump rubbish and discharge pollutants. Occasional light thinning and alder coppicing would benefit small sections of these woodland areas. Any further tree planting on the base should be of native species.


FAUNA:
Outside base: little previous information. The area is likely to hold Nightjars and Woodcock, and the ISR butterfly site straddles the boundary of the base at Goldfinch Bottom (see attached sheet). On visit the following species were noted: Grey Squirrel, Rabbit. 
Nuthatch, Swallow, Wren, House Sparrow, Yellowhammer, Collared Dove, House Martin, Blackcap, Pied Wagtail, Blackbird, Goldfinch, Blue Tit, Wood Pigeon, Tree Creeper, Jackdaw, Great Tit, Linnet, Chaffinch, Stock Dove, Marsh Tit, Chiffchaff, Bullfinch, Willow Warbler, Great-spotted Woodpecker.  Garden Warbler, Carrion Crow, Greenfinch, Turtle Dove, Long-tailed Tit, Goldcrest and Spotted Flycatcher. Butterflies noted on the common outside the base include Green-veined White, Meadow Brown, Large White and Small Skipper. The grasshopper Omocestus viridulus was also noted. Inside base: Skylark, Pied Wagtail, Linnet, Swallow, Great-spotted Woodpecker, Willow Warbler, Blackcap, Robin, Wood Pigeon, Goldfinch, Wren, Magpie seen on visit, as was Rabbit. Butterflies seen include Small Copper, Common Blue, Peacock, Brimstone, Green-veined White, Small Skipper, Large Skipper, Meadow Brown, Painted Lady, Gatekeeper and Grayling on the boundary with CL 55. Cinnabar Moths also seen. The dragonfly Aeshna grandis was noted, and the grasshopper Chorthippus brunneus. Numerous solitary wasps were seen.

Previous information on the fauna of the base suggests that this common land unit also held (in 1968-76) wintering Lapwing and Golden Plover, together with finch and pipit flocks. Nightjar is known to have bred on the common, including in recent years. The southern edge of the airbase, including the area just north of Goldfinch Bottom, is an ISR site, with records of 18 species of butterfly in 1984, including Grayling, White Admiral and Purple Emperor. It is thought that the group of sallows  used as a breeding area by Purple Emperors was destroyed by airbase construction work.

NCC records also suggest that small ponds on the common probably support Palmate Newts, the gully woodlands support Dormice, and that Grizzled and Dingy Skippers are almost certainly present.

VEG:
The two halves of the common are very different in character. Inside the base there is much close-mown grassland and heath-grassland mosaic between the runways, with very few areas of other habitat. Outside the base woodland and scrub are dominant, with very little open habitat at all. Target notes for different areas and compartments are as follows - target notes for outside the base are numbered; those for inside have letters commencing with area (K) which follows on from the letters used for CL 55. Outside the base: Area (1) near Travellers  Friend Pub: this is semi-improved MG1 Arrhenatherum elatius roadside grassland with patches of Deschampsia cespitosa and Juncus effusus. To the south is tall scrub dominated by birch and oak with patches of Ulex europaeus and Rubus fruticosus. Area (2) is open unimproved acidic grassland with scattered A22 Ulex europaeus.  The unimproved acidic grassland is dominated by Anthoxanthum odoratum, Festuca sp. and Agrostis capillaris. The whole area has a birch fringe. Other species here include Teucrium scorodonia, Rubus fruticosus, Rumex acetosella, Juncus effusus and Lotus corniculatus.

Area (3): consists of an open central area of unimproved acid grassland, with Potentilla erecta and dwarf, mown Ulex europaeus, with birch and gorse fringes. The area is kept open and close-mown due the presence of overhead power lines. At the north-west edge is some Calluna vulgaris and Erica cinerea. There has been some birch clearance here, which is regenerating. Vehicles are frequently driven on the common here, which keeps vegetation short.

Area (4) is dense birch, oak and Ulex europaeus scrub, with Rubus fruticosus and other tall herb vegetation between. This area extends westwards to the airbase fence, with small patches of open unimproved acidic grassland, but little heath (though there area a few areas dense Ulex)  scattered throughout. There is more open acidic grassland along the roadside, and some MG1 Arrhenatherum elatius grassland in places.


Area (5): This is a strip periodically cleared of scrub by the MOD along a line of landing lights. Some of the birch has been 'pollarded' at chest height. In between the scrub are areas of unimproved acidic grassland, bare gravel, some bracken and some short Calluna heath. Parts have been burned, and there are many vehicle tracks. There has been much dumping. This area extends in part down into Thornford Gully.

Area (6) is oak and birch woodland with some alder (particularly on the downslope edge), and hazel. The canopy is dense, with much bracken beneath. MG1 Arrhenatherum elatius grassland and areas of dense bracken are found along the road edge. Numerous small gullies in this area, including Thornford Gully, were not investigated in detail.

Area (7) is birch woodland grading into an alder gully.

Area (8): Brushwood Gully has a poplar plantation over slightly flushed grassland, with Urtica dioica, Filipendula ulmaria, Cirsium palustre, Scrophularia sp., Rubus fruticosus, Pteridium aquilinum and Epilobium hirsutum. Upslope, the woodland changes to oak, not investigated.

Area (9) is predominantly birch woodland over bracken, and some dry acidic grassland with patches of gorse. Willows and elders are also present. This grades upslope into dense bracken with acidic grassland and scattered scrub, with gorse. Mown strips under power lines are mainly bracken, but there are some areas of grassland with traces of Calluna.

Area (10) is dry birch and oak woodland with bracken beneath.

Area (11) (between areas 7 and 8) is birch and oak woodland with dense bracken in places. There is some aspen on the roadside edge, and patches of willows.

Crookham Common outside the airbase has records of 22 species of bark lichens, and the woodland on the south slope has Parmelia perlata (Bowen 1988).


CL 60 within Greenham Common airbase (see also CL 55).

Target note lettering continues from CL 55.

Area (K): D5 dry dwarf shrub heath/acidic grassland mosaic. Typical of the central grasslands within the runways, this area has scattered Erica cinerea and Ulex minor, with around 30% bare ground. The remainder of the sward is composed of Festuca ovina, Agrostis capillaris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Centaurium erythraea, Euphrasia officinalis, Plantago lanceolata, Hieracium pilosella, Achillea millefolium, Deschampsia flexuosa, Polytrichum sp. (?alpestre), Aira praecox. The area is close-mown and has possibly been burned in the past. It grades up a slight slope towards the runway, and becomes rather more pure acidic grassland, with no heath. The B11 is dominated by Anthoxanthum, Agrostis capillaris and Festuca ovina, with Daucus carota, CL 60 (continued)

Trifolium dubium, Potentilla sterilis, Centaurium erythraea, Centaurea nigra, Senecio jacobaea, Plantago lanceolata, Lotus corniculatus and Trifolium pratense. Overall, area (K) is an attractive area of heathy grassland.

Area (L): an area of B12 semi-improved acidic grassland, with a block of willow, birch, hawthorn and sycamore scrub, with areas of gorse and tall herb vegetation within it.

Area (M): part of the runway grasslands, this area is unimproved acidic grassland, though quite lush and up to 20cm high in places. There are small areas of heath. Agrostis/Festuca grassland is dominant, with much bare ground. It is close-mown. Other species present include Hypochaeris radicata, Hieracium pilosella, Euphrasia officinalis, Achillea millefolium, Linum catharticum, Trifolium repens (occasional), Centaurea nigra, Centaurium erythraea, Lotus corniculatus, Anthyllis vulneraria, Ulex minor, Daucus carota, Hypericum pulchrum, Aira praecox, Danthonia decumbens and the moss Campylopus introflexus. It becomes more enriched and semi-improved towards the runway edges.

Area (N) is similar to (M), but there are a few mown and prostrate tree seedlings, together with Carlina vulgaris, Polygala vulgaris and numerous anthills.

Area (O) is close-mown, slightly semi-improved acidic grassland, but with calcareous influence. It is dominated by Anthoxanthum odoratum and Festuca ovina, with Trifolium pratense, Plantago lanceolata, Hypochaeris radicata, Trifolium dubium, Lotus corniculatus, Centaurium erythraea, Rumex acetosella, Hieracium pilosella, Ulex minor, Agrostis capillaris, Cynosurus cristatus, Stellaria media and Juncus squarrosus. Bare earth is frequent.

Area (P) is lusher, more improved grassland with wetter runnels and Alopecurus geniculatus.

Area (Q) is also semi-improved acidic grassland, rather disturbed in places, grading into more unimproved grassland with some heath. Ulex europaeus and U. minor are present, and there is less than 1% close-mown Calluna vulgaris. There is some very short, mown, colonising birch and willow.

Area (R) is a nice heathy area with scattered Calluna and Erica tetralix, and herbs such as Plantago lanceolata, Hypochaeris radicata, Lotus corniculatus, Linum catharticum, Aira praecox, Rumex acetosella, Lotus corniculatus. This becomes quite improved where more lush adjacent to runway edges.

Area (S) is lush, improved grassland, reseeded, and receiving runoff from the runways.

Area (T) is a storage area with much bare gravel, stacked barrels, and areas of semi-improved acidic grassland. Known locally as "The Quarry", there are some arable weeds, Tripleurospermum maritimum, Papaver rhoeas, Senecio sylvaticus, Prunella vulgaris, Erodium cicutarium, Potentilla reptans, Pastinacea sativa, Dipsacus fullonum and Glechoma hederacea.


Area (U) is a rather disturbed area of bare shingle, grading to birch and willow scrub with heath beneath. Species present in this area include Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, Hypericum pulchrum, Spergularia rubra, Teucrium scorodonia, Anthoxanthum odoratum. It is quite shady and grass-dominated under parts of the scrub, and scrub clearance is necessary from this area. Other species here include Juncus bufonius, Agrostis capillaris, Rumex acetosella, Centaurium eryathraea, Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus, Anagallis arvensis, Ulex minor, U. europaeus, Crepis capillaris, Agrostis stolonifera and Deschampsia flexuosa.

Area (V) is a scrub-covered gully, part tipped into. Up the west side of area (T), by the road, is some quite rich acidic grassland. On the gully edge there is much concrete and ruderals. The scrub is Ulex europaeus, elder, birch, willow, Rubus fruticosus, hawthorn and some aspen. It is wet in places, and probably worth further survey. At the lower edge of (V) is a Juncus effusus flush, with Juncus ?kochii and Ranunculus flammula, leading to a sump.


Additional notes from NCC relating to the airbase as a whole suggest that Vulpia bromoides, Saxifraga granulata and Trifolium striatum are present or likely to be present, and that further survey of the the grassland areas in spring would yield additional vernal ephemerals. The wooded gullies on the site may hold Carex binervis and C. laevigata.

Overall, the mix of habitats both within and outside the airbase make this common land unit of considerable interest in a county context, especially when viewed in conjunction with CL 55. Every effort should be made to ensure that the areas of most valuable habitat within the base are retained and managed appropriately by the MOD.  Scrub clearance and active heathland management should be introduced on Crookham Common outside the base, to ensure the survival of the very small heath and acid grassland areas which still remain.

MANAGE:
Within the base, most of the grassland and heath is close mown. See CL 55 for more details of management and management recommendations, since both CL units need to be considered together by necessity. Outside the airbase, there is very little management over any of the common, and this must have been so for several decades, since the scrub and woodland is very well established. There is some mowing of verges, presumably by the Local Authority, and dumping is frequent. The landing light strip at the east end of the runway is periodically cleared of scrub, presumably by the MOD. Some areas have been accidentally burned. There are many power lines crossing the common, and some scrub clearance has taken place under these. The main management need is to clear scrub away from the remaining open areas of heath and grassland, and re-establish the heather through appropriate management.


FAUNA:
Recorded during visit: Bullfinch, Long tailed tit, Yellowhammer.   
Speckled Wood, Peacock. Gatekeeper.

VEG:
The track is bordered by rough grassland, MG1 in NVC classification, with Arrenatherum elatius, Heracleum sphondylium, Urtica dioica, Dactylis glomerata, Stachys sylvatica, Rumex obtusifolius, Tamus communis and Pteridium. Dense scrub, probably an overgrown hedgerow, forms the boundary each side, and has a few large trees, mainly ash. Species include hazel, hawthorn, elder, field maple and elm suckers, with Clematis vitalba, Geum urbanum, Mercurialis perennis. The scrub becomes wider and denser to the north, with oak and blackthorn. The bare ground along the cart track has Lolium perenne, Plantago major and Gnaphalium uliginosum.

MANAGE:
The common is used as a footpath, but is otherwise unmanaged. No management is needed and the common provides a useful strip of habitat in an otherwise agricultural area.


VEG:
The common consists of closely mown species-poor amenity grassland dominated by Lolium perenne with Taraxacum officinale, Plantago major and Poa annua. A row of Lombardy poplars crosses the common and there is a row ornamental trees along the southern edge.

MANAGE:
The common is managed for recreation, with frequent mowing. This has produced an area of negligible landscape and wildlife value, which could be improved by the planting of native trees and clumps of shrubs. A pond could be created.


FAUNA:
Goldfinch, Wren, Starling, Housemartin.  On Pond; Moorhen, Aeschna grandis, Anax imperator, Coenagrion puella, Stickleback.

VEG:
The grassland is Lolium perenne dominated with Plantago lanceolata, P.major, Achillea millifolium, Potentila anserina, Rumex obtusifolia, Dactylis glomerata, Taraxacum officinale, Carex hirta. There are numerous trees including pollarded willows planted oak, ash, willow and poplar. The western boundary hedge is of suckering elm, elder, sycamore, oak, Humulus lupulus, Salix fragilis, Rosa canina. An MG1 community along the edge has Arrenatherum elatius, Cirsium vulgaris, Epilobium hirsutum, Agrimonia eupatoria, Arum maculatum, Arctium minus. Small streams on each boundary have fringing vegetaion of Symphytum officinale, Typha latifolium, Alisma plantago aquatica, Filipendula ulmaria, Dipsacus fullonum. The pond in the NE corner is covered in Azolla filiculoides with Glyceria maxima, Iris pseudacorus, Solanum dulcamara, Mentha aquatica, T.latifolia, E.hirsutum, Agrostis stolonifera, Juncus inflexus, S.babylonica (Salix).

MANAGE:
The grass is mown. The willows have been well pollarded, providing a valuable feature, with ivy, hawthorn and dogrose growing from them. The streams are cleared rather too severely with excessive cutting of bankside vegetation. The pond is an important wildlife habitat, and should be continued to be managed sympathetically, without excessive clearance.


FAUNA:
Robin, Bullfinch, Wood pigeon, Stock Dove, Magpie.  Meadow Brown.

VEG:
Most of the common is secondary oak woodland with birch. It is dense and spindly, with some holly sycamore and beech. The understorey is mainly bramble with Geum urbanum, Lonicera periclymenum, Hedera helix, Geranium robertianum, Urtica dioica, Teucrium scorodonia, Digitalis purpurea. Ulex europaeus is scattered along the edge with Galium saxatile beneath. Other trees include Populus tremula, Salix alba and Horse chestnut. A relict small pond is heavily shaded with very little water. To the south there is a patch of mown rough grassland with Dactylis glmoerata, Lolium perenne, Heracleum shpndylium, Taraxacum officinalis, Plantago lanceolata, Centaurea nigra, Achillea millifolium, Armoracia rusticana, Aegopodium podograria.

MANAGE:
The grassland is mown but the woodland appears to be unmanaged. Soeme thinning would be beneficial, and the pond could be restored.


VEG:
The centre of the triangle is oak dominated woodland with some mature trees with ash in a shrub layer with hazel, elder, hawthorn, crab apple and beech. The ground flora is limited due to the dense canopy, but includes Urtica dioica, Mercurialis perennis, Hedera helix, Dryoptris felix-mas. The western boundary has a hedgerow with elm suckers, dogrose, and Arum maculatum. An old pond is overgrown with Salix. Along the road an MG1 community has Arrenatherum elatius, Heracleum sphondylium, Cirsium arvense and Arctium minus.

MANAGE:
The common is currently unmanaged. Some thinning and the creation of glades would be beneficial, although the size of the wood limits this. The pond could be opened up and restored.


FAUNA:
Nuthatch, Wood Pigeon, Blue tit, Jay, Wren.  Comma, Speckled Wood, Red Admiral.

VEG:
The common is dominated by oak woodland, with a holly, sycamore, and hazel understorey. The dense canopy, particularly in the south, means there is little ground flora, but this includes Melampyrum pratense, Sanicula europaea, Oxalis acetosella, Lonicera pericylmenum. Ribes nigrum is occasional. An open area in the centre of the wood may have been produced by bracken clearance. This has patches of Molinia Deschampsia flexuosa, Galium saxatile, Agrostis capillaris, Digitalis purpurea, Euphorbia amygdaloides, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Rubus sp., Juncus effusus and scattered ash seedlings. The surrounding wood has a bracken understorey. In the N.E, the wood is damper, with a more open canopy. Some of the oaks are very large. Species include Carex remota, Cirsium palustre, Alnus glutinosa, Holcus mollis, Lysimachia nemorum, Circaea lutetiana. Two small ponds are mainly dry, but have Polygonum hydropiper and Glyceria.

MANAGE:
There has been some encroachment at the southern end from gardens, with areas mown, and dumping of garden refuse. Some tree planting has occurred on the eastern edge of oak, ash and cherry. The creation of more glades would be beneficial.                                                                                

An NCC 1979 survey found 55 species in total, with 22 woody species and 9 ancient woodland indicators.


FAUNA:
Part of BTO site - typical woodland birds including warblers, Turtle Dove, Lesser Spotted Woodpecker and Spotted Woodpecker and Nightingale in 1968 and  1976.  Recorded during visit: House Martin, Chiff Chaff, Wood Pigeon, Bullfinch, Wren.  
Small Skipper.

VEG:
The eastern part of the common is a plantation of oak, beech, and larch, closely spaced and spindly. The western edge has a strip of more semi-natural woodland with hazel, hawthorn, cherry, wych elm, field maple and large oak and ash, particularly at the southern end. The ground flora is mainly bramble with scattered bracken, Hyacynthoides non-scripta, Circaea lutetiana, Geum urbanum, Carex sylvatica. A clearing at the southern end has Ulex europaeus, Juncus conglomeratus, J.inflexus, Epilobium hirsutum, Lotus corniculatus, Cirsium arvense with Ranunculus flammula, and Sphagnum palustre in poached areas.

MANAGE:
The plantation needs thinning. A clearing has been cut for a telephone line, and this has created a valuable clearing, useful for butterflies. More glades are needed.


FAUNA:
House Martin, Swallow, Mallard, Pied Wagtail, Bullfinch, Magpie, Carrion Crow.  
Common Blue, Small Tortoiseshell, Meadow Brown.  7 spot Ladybird Agrion splendens.

VEG:
Most of the common is semi-improved grassland with Lolium perenne, Cirsium arvense, C.vulgare, Plantago major, Dactylis glomerata, Trifolium repens, Hordeum murinum, Rumex obtusifolium, Crepis capillaris, Arrenatherum elatius, Tripleurospermum maritimum, Matricaria matricarioides, Polygonum aviculare, Verbena officinalis, Convolvulus arvensis. This grassland is crossed by a tarmaced path, and is heavily used for recreation. The east side has clumps of trees, including large Ash, a well pollarded Willow, Hawthorn, Blackthorn, and Sycamore. The margin of Lulle Brook is fringed by Epilobium hirsutum, Scrophularia aquatica, Verronica beccabunga, Torilus japonica, Hypericum tetrapterum, Symphytrum officinale. Where the common borders the river Thames, there has been some disturbance, with bare ground and nettles.

MANAGE:
The common is very lightly cattle grazed. More willows should be planted along the river bank.


FAUNA:
Blackbird, Greenfinch, Spotted Flycatcher.
Rabbit.

VEG:
The grassland is semi-improved with Lolium perenne, Agrostis sp., Achillea millefolium, Cynosurus cristatus, Holcus lanatus, Festuca rubra, Cirsium arvense, Ranunculus acris. It has probably been improved in the past, but there are remnant patches of less improved grassland at the edges with Briza media, Prunella vulgaris, Lotus corniculatus, Galium verum, Anthoxanthum odoratum.  A row of large parkland trees line the roads crossing the common, with Lime, Copper Beech, and Sycamore. Dense scrub of Hawthorn, Bramble, Elder, Ulex europaeus ocurs along the edges and in corners.

MANAGE:
The grassland is heavily cattle grazed. Tree planting has occurred within the existing line of trees. The areas of scrub are of value and could be extended, otherwise existing management should continue.


FAUNA:
Chaffinch, Wren, Wood Pigeon, Bullfinch. 
Meadow Brown.

VEG:
The northern part is dense scrubby woodland with oak, ash, elder, blackthorn, beech, horse chestnut, holly, Rhododendron and hawthorn over an understorey of bracken, bramble, and nettles. In places the wood has mature oak trees and is more open. In front of houses the common consists of a mown strip with Centaurea nigra, Dactylis glomerata, Arrentherum elatius, Cirsium arvense, Epilobium hirsutum, Achillea millifolioum, Pulicaria dysenterica, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Agrimonia eupatoria, Senecio jacobaea. The smaller southern part is a horse grazed, improved pasture, and a wheat field.

MANAGE:
The northern part is unmanaged apart from mowing of the verge. The southern part has been completely improved. The wood would benefit from thinning.


FAUNA:
Recorded during survey: Great Tit.  
Speckled Wood. 
Noted during the 1980 NCC survey by J. Buchanan: White Admiral, Silver Washed Fritillary, Grayling.

VEG:
Predominantly Birch woodland with scattered Oak, Sweet Chestnut, Holly and Scots pine with an understorey of bracken and Rubus, Holcus lanatus and Lonicera periclymenum. A stream on the western boundary is lined with Alder and has Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Viola palustre, Caltha palustre, Ranunculus repens, Dryopteris felixmas and Cicaea lutetiana. This stream is part of Padworth Gully, which extends north of the common, and has been extensively surveyed, with the site as a whole having 110 species including 26 ancient woodland indicators. An 1817 map showed the common to be wooded.

MANAGE:
The common appears to be unmanaged, but the NCC survey records that the wood is old coppice. Regeneration is good. BCC Planning Department produced a management plan for the whole of the site which states that the southern part was damaged by fire in 1950 and 1976. Gravel has been dug. Thinning of the woodland would be beneficial.


VEG:
Rough grassland of the NVC MG1 type, Arrentharum elatius, Heracleum sphondylium, Lolium perenne, Trifolium pratense, Urtica dioica, Plantago lanceolata, Cirsium palustre, Dactylis glomerata, Ranunculus bulbosus. A patch of dense scrub has Elder, Ash and Sycamore. The southern part has old chicken coups with dense nettle and Elder scrub. There are a few large Sycamore trees at the edge of the common.

MANAGE:
The common is lightly mown but the cuttings are not removed and the grass is rank. More trees could be planted.


FAUNA:
The wide variety of habitats support a range of species. Birds include relict breeding populations of heathland species such as Tree Pipit and Nightjar, the common being the Nightjars last county stronghold. Grasshopper and Garden Warblers, Blackcap and Whitethroat occur in the scrub areas, while the damp woodlands support Woodcock and Redstart, and large wintering flocks of Siskin and Redpoll which feed in the Alder gullies. BTO common bird census lists many species. Heathland supports Slow Worm Common Lizard and Adder. The invertebrate fauna of the common is undoubtedly under-recorded. A host of moth and butterfly species are recorded from the common: butterflies include grayling, small heath,  and dingy skipper on the heathland while woodland species include purple emperor, white admiral and purple hairstreak. The wet alder gullies and wet heathland have yielded in excess of 50 cranefly spcies, 11 of which are nationally rare; the genus Limonia  is particularly well represented. Two other nationally rare species recorded are the large red-belted clearwing moth  Synanthedon culiciformis, and slender groundhopper Tetrix subulata.

Mammals include badger, fox, dormouse, yellow-necked mouse and fallow, roe and muntjac deer.

Common toads are widespread and the heathland supports populations of slow worm, common lizard and adder. Grass snake has been recorded from other habitats.

VEG:
The following is only a summary of the extensive amount of information which exists for this common. The dominant habitat is dense secondary birch woodland which has colonised the formerly open heath areas. It has a scattered understorey of hazel, hawthorn, aspen, holly, willow, and blackthorn, locally giving way to an open canopy of oak and rowan. The ground flora has bracken, bramble and Lonicera periclymeneum, with remnant senescent Calluna in places, and Corydalis claviculata a notable species. The remaining areas of heath are mainly on Lower Common where the Calluna forms a mosaic with acid grassland including Festuca ovina, Danthonia decumbens, Deschampsia flexuosa, Rumex acetosella and scattered Erica cinerea. Much of the heathland is suffering from scrub encroachment, and the figure for heathland can only be an estimate. Patches of wet heath and acid grassland occur where drainage is impeded, with E. tetralix, tussocks of Molinia caerulea, Juncus effusus, J.squarrosus and Sphagnum. This marshy grassland/wet heath habitat occurs on 10 small areas scattered throughout the common.

This common has the largest ancient woodland-heathland complex in Berkshire, with 43 species that are indicators of long continuity of woodland. Holly Wood and the western part of Upper Common consist largely of mature high forest woodland, with many old pollarded and coppiced beech and oak, with an abundant holly understorey, all features characteristic of relict wood-pasture. The ground flora is dominated by bracken, bramble and Vaccinium myrtillus. Melampyrum pratense, an increasingly uncommon species in Berkshire, occurs locally. Numerous gullies traverse the slopes, exposing the London clay, and producing rich flushes supporting a range of species including Lysimachia nemorum, Stachys officinalis, Sanicula europaea, Luzula multiflora  and L.pilosa, Carex sylvatica, C.remota. The gullies are an important feature of the common. Permanently water-logged soils support stands of coppiced alder and ash, much of which has reverted to high forest  through lack of management.  Viburnum opulus occurs in the shrub layer, whilst the wet ground supports Sphagnum palustre, Blechnum spicant, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Achillea ptarmica and Scutellaria minor.

East of chapel row there is a distinctive double oak avenue, thought to be one of the finest examples in England, and reputed to date back to Elizabeth I. Many of the older and decaying trees are valuable for their lichens and populations of invertebrates associated with dead wood.

The small plantations of Scots Pine have acted as a seed source for the surrounding areas, such as on Lower Common.

There are approximately 15 ponds on the common, containing a variety of emergent, submerged and bankside vegetation, including Typha latifolia, Caltha palustris, Iris pseudacorus, Nymphaea alba. The pond in the middle of the oak avenue has Ranunculus lingua (probably introduced), Sagitaria sagittifolia, Epilobium hirsutum, Lycopus europaeus and Lemna. A pond near Chapel Row Farm has Cyperus longus (possibly introduced) and Alisma plantago aquatica.

Over the whole common in excess of 350 vascular plants have been recorded in addition to many bryophytes and lichens.

MANAGE:
The extent of birch is due in part to severe disturbance due to military use in the last war. The area under birch was originally heathland. Scrub encroachment is the main priority for management as the remaining heathland is of considerable importance and should be conserved. The majority of the ponds are suffering from siltation and are overgrown. Pond clearance is needed to maintain them, this has occurred at the the pond at Chapel Row Common in 1983. A large part of the wooded area is managed in some way for timber and brushwood. This includes selective thinning of beech in Holly Wood and  replanting with 5,000 trees of native species. It was the first time that a Forestry Grant had been awarded for work on common land. Part of the secondary birch woodland on the Lower Common are cut on a short  rotation for jumps for Newbury Race course. Birch is also taken by commoners for pea sticks etc. Gorse has been regularly cut on Lower Common for Newbury Race Course for many years. The taking of gorse was formerly much more widespread.  The Scots Pine encroaching onto the heath from the north-west are annually thinned and sold. The oak avenue was subject to extensive tree surgery in 1971/2 and 1983, with some replacemement trees planted. Several amenity tree planting programmes have been undertaken at various scattered locations over the common.

The Bucklebury Common Woodlands Committee (an adjunct of the Advisory Committee) was set up in 1979 to undertake small scale conservation tasks using local voluntary labour. Work has included an experiment to restore the open heathland (in an area south-east of Pease Hill crossroads) by scrub clearance.

Horse riding and the increasing use of the common by motorcycle scramblers is causing localised damage.


FAUNA:
Azure damselflies {\it Coenagrion puella} seen near the river bank.

VEG:
The grassland is dominated by {\it Lolium perenne}, with locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis} and {\it Cynosurus cristatus}. On the river bank, there is also frequent {\it Alopecurus geniculatus}, with occasional {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}. Along the waters edge, there are discontinuous stands of {\it Glyceria  maxima} with occasional {\it Butomus umbelatus} and {\it Myosotis scorpioides}.  

The hedge is dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna}. There are some pollarded {\it Salix fragilis} trees.

MANAGE:
Managed as improved grassland, probably used for horse grazing.


FAUNA:
Birds: Mallard, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Blackbird, Wood pigeon, Pheasant.

Mammals: Grey Squirrel, Rabbit.

VEG:
The wooded area to the south has large {\it Fagus sylvatica} with an {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} understorey. The ground flora, at the time of survey included {\it Euphorbia amygdaloides, Ribes uva-crispa, Hedera helix, Viola riviniana, Galium odoratum}, and {\it Carex sylvatica}. Further towards the houses in the centre of the common the wood is dominated by {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with {\it Prunus avium} and the ground flora has large patches of {\it Mercuralis perennis}. Some quite old {\it Fagus sylvatica} trees are found to the west of the housing area.

The western end of the common has some grassland by the road with {\it Molinia caerulea, Dactylis glomerata, Achillea millefolium and Glechoma hederacea}. There some planted {\it Quercus} sp., {\it Taxus baccata} and {\it Prunus avium}. The rest of the western end is scrub with {\it Fraxinus excelsior} standards. The shaded ground under the scrub has {\it Mercuralis perennis} and {\it Arum maculatum} with the bryophytes {\it Hypnum cupressiforme} and {\it Rhytidiadelphus} sp.

MANAGE:
The scrub on the western end of the Common could be cut back to promote a more diverse ground flora.


FAUNA:
Several Azure damselflies {\it Coenagrion  puella} were seen along the River Great Ouse and in the wet hollows at the southern end  of the site. A few (less than 10) Small tortoiseshell {\it Aglais urticae} and Large white {\it Pieris brassicae} butterflies were also seen. Birds: House Sparrow, Blackbird, Starling, Robin.

VEG:
The grassland consists of {\it Lolium perenne, Dactylis glomerata, Poa} spp., {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Alopecurus pratensis}, with locally abundant {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Ranunculus  repens, Rumex  acetosella, Plantago major} and {\it Bellis perennis}. In the western half of the site, near the cricket pitch, there is an enclosed young plantation of {\it Populus  alba} and {\it Acer campestre} (TD less than 12cm  ACH),  with occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Prunus} sp.

At the southern end of the site, there are some shallow, wet depressions (probably seasonal ponds) which contain abundant {\it Glyceria fluitans}, with occasional {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it J. inflexus}. Along the southern boundary, there are some extensive stands of {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}, with scattered {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Urtica dioica} and {\it Cirsium arvense}.

{\it Crataegus monogyna}-dominated hedges (with frequent {\it Sambucus nigra}) run along most of the length of the boundary; these are generally up to 2.5m high and wide. There are frequent mature {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Salix fragilis} trees (some {\it S. fragilis} pollarded), with occasional {\it Quercus robur}. Part of the eastern boundary runs along a ditch, and the hedge here reaches a height of about 5m.  

A hedgerow divides the main area of the common from another field which extends up to the River Great Ouse.  Most of the landward boundary here is wire fencing. On the river bank, there are occasional  tands of {Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Glyceria maxima} (which extend into the water), also frequent {\it Alopecurus geniculatus} with occasional {\it Scrophularia aquatica, Geranium dissectum} and {\it Capsella bursa-pastoris}. Along the waters edge, there is locally frequent {\it Veronica anagallis-aquatica} and {\it Polygonum hydropiper}, plus occasional {\it Eleocharis palustris} and {\it Butomus umbelatus}.  

It appears that no substantial changes have occurred since the common was visited by BBONT in 1983. 

The surrounding non-urban land is mostly improved pasture or arable crop land.

MANAGE:
The  common was once used to graze sheep and cattle. In 1942, the land was requisitioned by Newport Pagnall Urban District Council, when it
was "overgrown with bushes, grass etc." Since 1942 it has been used regularly for recreational purposes, eg. football, cricket and "air and excercise".                        
                         
In terms of habitat management, it would be desirable to keep the existing boundary features, and the shallow hollows at the southern end of the site. There is limited scope (bearing in mind the present land use) for allowing new areas of semi-natural habitat to  develop (eg. semi-improved neutral grassland, scrub) and for increasing the small area of plantation woodland and/or planting scattered trees.


FAUNA:
Small tortoiseshell {\it Aglais  urticae} and  Meadow brown {\it Maniola jurtina} butterflies in the area N. of the road. The 1986 BBONT survey also recorded the Peacock butterfly {\it Inachis io}. Blue tit, Rabbit and Toad in this area. 1 coot was seen on the pond.

VEG:
The woodland to the south of the road is dominated by old, coppiced {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, with locally frequent  mature standard {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula  pendula}. There is an understorey of scattered {\it Crataegus  monogyna} (some coppiced), with frequent {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. Ground flora species: abundant {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta}, with locally frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Geranium   robertianum, Glechoma hederacea, Digitalis purpurea, Galium  aparine, Potentilla anserina and Dryopteris filix-mas}, plus occasional {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum, Arum maculatum, Galium verum} and {\it Geum urbanum}. The  western half of the wood is crossed by access tracks to private residential properties bordering the southern edge  of the common. Also in this area, there are peripheral stands of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.    

The pond is partly shaded by mature trees on its western side. It is fringed with dense stands of {\it Typha latifolia} up to 5m wide (on the  E. side), also frequent {\it Oenanthe crocata} and {\it Veronica beccabunga}, plus occasional {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Glyceria fluitans}.  

The tall herb vegetation in the part of the common north of the road is a mixture of {\it Urtica dioica, Cirsium arvense, Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}, with abundant {\it Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus lanatus}, and {\it Poa} spp., plus locally frequent {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Lotus uliginosus, Rumex obtusifolius,  Galium aparine} and {\it Glechoma hederacea}. This is  interspersed with scattered scrub and young trees: {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra, Rosa} sp., {\it Ulex europaeus, Quercus robur, Acer  pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior}, occasional {\it Malus}  sp. The peripheral areas of dense scrub and young woodland are also composed of these species.    


The woodland is dominated by old coppiced {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Betula pendula}, with mature standard {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fagus sylvatica} (south half) and occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. There is an understorey of scattered, tall (up to 8m) {\it Crataegus  monogyna} with occasional {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. The most abundant ground flora species are {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. There is also locally frequent {\it Anenome nemorosa, Aegopodium podagraria, Glechoma hederacea, Viola} sp., {\it Stellaria alsine, Geranium robertianum} and {\it Mnium hornum}, plus occasional {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Poa nemoralis} and {\it Digitalis purpurea}. A small area of {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominated scrub is situated on the northern edge of the wood.    

The northern most pond site did not contain any water at the time of survey. There was a carpet of {\it Callitriche} sp. on the wet mud  (with  1 {\it Nuphar lutea} plant) fringed with occasional clumps of {\it Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Juncus effusus}, and a few {\it Salix} spp.  bushes.  The southern pond site is similar (but no {\it Nuphar lutea}).  

The poor semi-improved grassland (uncut at time of survey) is a mixture of {\it Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Arrhenatherum elatius, Poa} spp. and {\it Lolium perenne}. There are a few scattered patches (too small to map) of more acidic grassland dominated by {\it Festuca} sp. with abundant {\it Galium saxatile}. There is a small area  of  tall herb vegetation ({\it Urtica dioica, Cirsium} sp.,{\it  Anthriscus sylvestris}) at the NW corner of the common.

MANAGE:
There is no evidence of regular livestock grazing. No other management is apparent, apart from cutting the grass outside residential properties at the south end of the common, and the coppicing mentioned above.


FAUNA:
Birds: Chiffchaff, Blackbird, Garden warbler, Willow warbler, Yellowhammer, Robin, Wood pigeon, Long tailed tit, Dunnock, and Song thrush were  recorded in the 1986 BBONT survey, also moles and rabbits.

Three Nationally notable (found in <100 10Km squares in the British Isles) moth species have been recorded (1971) at Turville Heath:  the Square spot {\it Ectropis consonaria},  Maple prominent {\it Ptilodontella cucullina} and Brighton wainscot {\it Oria musculosa}.  There is also a possible record of the same age for the Olive crescent {\it Trisateles emortualis}, a Red Data Book species (found in <15 10Km squares). (Information from Bucks. County Council Museums and Records Service).

VEG:
In the section on the NE side of the road, there are stands of mature and juvenile trees {\it Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus} interspersed with dense scrub and bracken, and tall herb vegetation with scattered scrub. The tall herb  vegetation is dominated by {\it Urtica dioica}, with locally frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}. These areas also contain abundant {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Alopecurus pratensis, Poa} spp. and {\it Holcus lanatus}. The scrub is a mixture of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Ulex europaeus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. In the southern half of this section, opposite Turville Heath House, there is an open area of semi-improved acid grassland dominated by {\it Festuca} sp., with frequent {\it Galium saxatile, Rumex acetosella, Potentilla  erecta and Luzula campestris}.     

On the SE side of the road, the common is crossed by an access track leading to Turville Park. North of the track, there is an almost continuous area of woodland, with peripheral stands of dense bracken. It is dominated by standard {\it Quercus robur} with frequent {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus and Fagus sylvatica}. The understorey is a mixture of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium and Prunus spinosa}, with frequent {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. These species extend into gaps in the mature canopy, where there are also numerous {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} saplings. The most abundant ground flora species are {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. There is also locally frequent {\it Oxalis acetosella, Glechoma hederacea, Geum urbanum, Stellaria holostea} and {\it Dryopteris filix-mas}, plus occasional  {\it Ajuga reptans, Potentilla sterilis, Sanicula europaea, Galium odoratum} and {\it Dryopteris dilatata}. South of the track, there is a mosaic of tall herb vegetation {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Urtica dioica, Pteridium aquilinum} and scrub with scattered trees {\it Betula pendula, A. pseudoplatanus}. There is a line of mature {\it Tilia} sp. trees. on each side of the road.  

The 1986 BBONT survey also recorded {\it Lotus uliginosus} and {\it Verbascum thapsus} on the common, as abundant and dominant ground flora species respectively.

Five County Rarities (found in <10 per cent of tetrads in the county) and one Very Rare Species (<1 per cent of tetrads) have been recorded on Turville Heath. These are  respectively {\it Adoxa  moschatellina, Helictotrichon pratense} (usually found in chalk or limestone grassland), {\it Bromus commutatus, Ribes nigrum, Avena sterilis} and {\it Festuca heterophylla} (very  rare). The geological  map shows that Turville Heath lies directly Reading Beds; the soils which derive from this formation are acidic  (Information from Library and Museum Service, Bucks. County Council).

MANAGE:
Some of the {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} along the road at the northern end of the common looks as if it has been coppiced in the last five years.The semi-improved acidic grassland is short, and probably subject to livestock grazing.

Bucks County Council wish to restore grazing and commission a Management Plan. There is particular concern about the {\it Tilia} sp. trees.


FAUNA:
Birds: Chiffchaff, Blackbird, Robin. Willow warbler, Garden Warbler, Magpie and Chaffinch were also recorded in the BBONT survey, also the Small White butterfly {\it Pieris rapae}.

Mammals:  Rabbit  (2 seen)

VEG:
The woodland is dominated by {\it Quercus robur} with frequent {\it Fraxinus excelsior}, and occasional {\it Populus tremula} and planted {\it Larix decidua}. In the NW quarter and the section on the W. side of the road, there is frequent coppiced {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}; most of the {\it Fraxinus excelsior} in these areas has also been coppiced. There is a line of standard {\it Fagus sylvatica} trees along the southern boundary. The understorey is mostly {\it Crataegus  monogyna}, with locally frequent  {\it Prunus spinosa, Corylus avellana} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}, plus occasional {\it Rosa} sp. Some of the  {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Corylus avellana} has been coppiced (not recently). The understorey is dense, but generally not impenetrable.

The most abundant ground flora species are {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Dryopteris filix-mas, Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus  fruticosus} agg. There is also locally frequent {\it Anenome nemorosa, Veronica montana, Geranium robertianum,  Geum urbanum, Glechoma hederacea, Stachys sylvatica,  Galium aparine} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}, plus occasional {\it Milium effusum} and {\it Galeopsis tetrahit}.   

The scattered scrub within the bracken clearings is mostly {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa}, with occasional {\it Salix} sp. A small clearing, about 30x60m has been made at the NE corner; this now contains rank {\it Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}, with frequent {\it Urtica  dioica}  and {\it Cirsium} sp. There is an {\it Ilex  aquifolium} hedge along the eastern boundary at this point, with mature standard {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees.

{\it Carex  spicata} and {\it Pyrus pyraster} were recorded in the 1986 BBONT survey.

MANAGE:
There is no evidence of regular livestock grazing of recent coppicing.


FAUNA:
Birds: Magpie, Yellowhammer, Chaffinch, Blue Tit, Crow, Linnet, Great Tit, Great-spotted Woodpecker,	Lark, Woodcock, Nightjar, Cuckoo.
		
Amphibians: Common Frog.

Reptiles: Adder, Grass Snake, Slow Worm, Common Lizard.

Invertebrates: {\it Metrioptera brachyptera}    Bog bush cricket {\it Ectobius lapponicus}	       Dusky cockroach

Moths:{\it Hadena contigua} Beautiful brocade, {\it Lygris testata} Chevron, {\it Boarmia roboraria} Great Oak Beauty.

Another 132 macromoth species, 8 micromoth species. Recorded by Albertini and Hall 1982.
			
Butterflies:  Brimstone, Small skipper, Speckled Wood, Ringlet, Large skipper, Marbled White, Common Blue, Small Copper, White Admiral, Grizzled skipper, Peacock.

Leaf Beetles, {\it Phytodecta viminalis}

Water Beetles, {\it Hydroporus melanarius}

16 Heteroptera including: {\it Cymus melanocephsalus}, a ground bug, {\it Nabis rugosus}, Common Damsel bug, {\it Saldula saltatonia}.

VEG:
317 species of vascular plant are recorded from Stoke Common.

Among the species of particular interest are: {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix, Ophioglossum vulgatum, Orchis morio, Dactylorhiza maculata} ssp. {\it ericetorum, Drosera rotundifolia, Drosera intermedia}. 

6 species of Lichen are recorded from 1988: {\it Cladonia coniocraea, C. chlorophaea, C fimbriata, C floerkeana, C subulata, Lecanora conizacoides}.

13 Bryophytes recorded:  {\it Campylopus introflexus, Ceratodon purpureus, Funaria hygrometrica, Dicranoweisia cirrata, Drepanocladus fluitans, Polytrichum commune, Polytrichum juniperinum, Sphagnum palustre, S. compactum, S. rubellum, S. subsecundum, S. papillosum. Marchantia polymorpha}.

The triangle to the North of the Stoke Common road is mostly even-aged {\it Betula} sp. scrub with a couple of areas of {\it Prunus spinosa} scrub by the road. Some {\it Quercus robur} specimens appear towards the eastern end.
On the west facing side some dry heath with acid grassland is evident with {\it Calluna vulgaris, Ulex europaeus, Luzula campestris, Rumex acetosella, Achillea millefolium}. Another {\it Prunus spinosa} patch also contains {\it Sarothamnus scoparius, Ulex europaeus}.

The Western rectangular section of the Common is a mosaic of woodland at the edges, scrub, grassland with wet and dry heath.
The larger trees include {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus robur and Pinus sylvestris}.
The scrub is {\it Betula pendula} and {\it B. pubescens} with some {\it Salix} sp.
The wetter heath contains {\it Molinia caerulea, Erica tetralix, Drosera rotundifolia} and the drier areas {\it Calluna vulgaris, Genista anglica} and {\it Juncus squarrosus}. The acid grassland contains grasses such as {\it Festuca ovina, Agostis stolonifera, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum}, and flowering plants such as {\it Potentilla erecta, Viola} sp., {\it Geranium dissectum}. This is also a well-known site for {\it Orchis morio, Ophioglossum vulgatum and Dactylorhiza maculata} ssp. {\it ericetorum}.

The main eastern section of the Common is also a mosaic of dry and wet heath framed by scrub and some woodland.This area is recorded as generally wetter than the section to the west of Gerrard Cross Road although this did not seem apparent at the time of survey after a dry winter. The vegetation and particularly the invertebrate populations have been radically affected by a fire which burnt for several days and burnt off 26 hectares of the main body of this area in 1995.

The eastern and northern sides of the site show quite advanced succession to woodland with a high proportion of {\it Betula} sp.scrub with {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Pinus sylvestris}. The latter becomes dominant in one or two areas. Understorey trees in this area include {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia} with a ground flora including {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}.

An overshaded pond exists near the south-eastern corner of this main section which contained {\it Glyceria fluitans} and {\it Juncus effusus}.

The slightly raised paths and gravelled tracks have their own flora, for example at point A -  {\it Diplotaxis muralis, Taraxacorum officinale, Leontodon autumnalis, Hypochaeris radicata, Trifolium repens, Cardamine hirsuta, Anthriscus sylvestris, Circium} sp. {\it Plantago major, Juncus effusus, Cerastium holostoides}.

MANAGE:
The management of the main part of Stoke Common has been radically affected by a fire, cause unknown, which burnt several hectares of the former heathland in early 1996. At the time of survey mosses were re-colonizing some areas quite fast and small signs of heath were evident. Seedlings of birch were evident and may cause quite a problem if a restoration of heath is to be undertaken.

The whole common is to fenced and grazing to be re-introduced. Scots Pine has been removed from an area of the larger section and scrub is to be cut back to encourage heather regeneration.
Stoke Common is subject to a Management Plan of 1994 and is part of a Wildlife Enhancement Scheme with English Nature for heathland.

The smaller section of Stoke Common is well used by the public. Some scrub clearance has been undertaken.

The Management Plan also seeks to enhance facilities for visitors in terms of boardwalks, interpretation boards, maintainance of footpaths and bridleways.


FAUNA:
Birds:  During survey: Great Tit, Blue Tit, Wood Pigeon, Robin, Pheasant,

Mammals: Rabbits.

VEG:
The South-eastern section of Bolter End Common to the South of Finings road is a {\it Quercus robur - Fagus sylvatica} woodland. The understorey is of {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Corylus avellana} with {\it Fagus} saplings. The ground flora at the time of survey was predominantly {\it Hedera helix, Lonicera periclymenum. Clematis vitalba} was much in evidence.There was plenty of deadwood around for invertebrate habitat.

An old pond exists at point X which is overshaded and of little wildlife interest. Many small hollows are water-filled but are usually clogged with leaves and are totally shaded.

The section to the North of Finings road is mostly high {\it Fagus sylvatica - Quercus robur} woodland with some high {\it Betula} sp trees on free-draining soils. The understorey is mostly {\it Ilex aquifolium} with very little ground flora in the main part of the wood. There is little deadwood though there has been some path clearance with piles of sticks. Some of the trees in this area are very big (veteran?) trees.

A mown grass area with daffodils faces the house called Finings.

The largest part of the Common (labelled Bolter End Common on map) has mixed young woodland of {\it Betula} sp.,{\it Quercus robur, Acer pseudoplatanus}, and {\it Aesculus hippocastanum}. This area can be entered from the road near G.R.800920 though farm uses of the track have both widened the track and made it very muddy. Isolated {\it Sarothamnus scoparius} exist in this area. The Bolter End Sand Pit SSSI can be approached via a gate off this track. The ground flora of this main section of the Common consisted, at the time of survey, of {\it Rubus fruticosus, Pteridium aquilinum, Rosa} agg.,{\it Holcus lanatus, Hedera helix, Epilobium angustifolium, Juncus effusus, Urtica dioica} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}.

Moving northwards in this main section of the Common one encounters grassland that has been invaded by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and a variety of tree species with patches of {\it Ulex europaeus, Rubus idaeus and Hyacinthoides non-scripta}. This becomes open grassland in the area marked 'Finings Road'- a goat was grazing on this area at the time of survey. At the northern tip of this main section a rather  shaded pond exists. 

The other sections of the Common are scrub woodland or grass verge.

MANAGE:
Current management seems to consist of some path maintainance. Some paths are marked for horse-riding (a recent permissive path). Some thinning has been undertaken under power lines in the wood by the Bolter End crossroads.
Future management could involve clearing out the ponds and removing excessively shading trees.
Selective tree thinning in some areas would enhance species diversity. Nest boxes should encourage avian populations which, at the time of survey, seemed low.
 
BTCV and Lane End Conservation Group has helped manage the Common, as has the Parish Council. A volunteer owns the goat that browses the open grassland!


FAUNA:
Birds: Great Tit, Blue Tit, Great-spotted Woodpecker, Willow warbler, Chiffchaff, Yellowhammer, Blackbird, Willow Tit, Greenfinch, Bullfinch, Chaffinch.
Moorhens on pond by Kensham Farm.

Mammals:  Muntjac, Mole.

Butterflies: {\it Anachis io} (Peacock), {\it Maniola jurtina} (Meadow Brown), {\it Pararge aegeria} (Speckled Wood),{\it Aphantopus hyperantus} (Ringlet), {\it Ochlodes venatus} (Large Skipper).

VEG:
The small section south of the M40 has some woodland with {\it Quercus robur, Betula pubescens} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia} which surrounds a dense stand of {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta}. A Stables nearby dumps manure and wood shavings which generates flushes of fungi even in spring. A cutting with small stream on the East side of this area has much dumped rubbish. {\it Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior, Crataegus monogyna} with {\it Rubus fruticosus} can be found in the cutting.

Across the motorway the Common includes some embankment from the motorway. The ground flora here includes {\it Taraxacorum} sp., {\it Vicia cracca, Ranunculus acris, Tussilago farfara, Ulex europaeus, Rumex} sp. Behind this a  pond that arose from the motorway development is overhung by {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Corylus avellana, Sambucus nigra} with {\it Iris pseudocorus}. Land around the pond is disturbed (much {\it Urtica dioica}).The pond is drained to a pipe that carries water under the motorway. Grassland by the road includes {\it Veronica} sp., {\it Bellis perennis, Aphanes arvensis, Cerastium holostoides, Lamium purpureum, Trifolium campestre}.

The main part of the Common is woodland ({\it Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Prunus avium}) with scrub ({\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa}, and {\it Sambucus nigra}). In some areas scrub is dominant.

Areas of more open {\it Pteridium aquilinum}-dominated habitat exist and made up around half the Common only 10 years ago. {\it Betula pendula} invades these areas and {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} is found. Over 90 species are recorded from the site including {\it Geranium pusillum, Ulex minor, Crepis biennis} and {\it Juncus conglomeratus}.

Several ponds exist on Cadmore End Common. To the West by Kensham Farm is an open well-maintained pond  with {\it Iris pseudocorus} which contrasts with the dead overshaded pond in the wood nearby. A large pond  to the NE of Cherry Tree Cottage is overshaded and clogged with leaves but has {\it Glyceria fluitans}.

MANAGE:
Recreation keeps the paths of Cadmore End Common open. Control of scrub and {\it Pteridium} would increase ground flora diversity. Scrub is cleared under power lines which increases diversity and habitat for some butterflies. The central pond could be cleared and trees thinned around it to open up the pond area. The Common boundary passes through the pond that this Common shares with Wheeler End Common. This pond could also be cleared and has been recommended as a site for the re-introduction of {\it Damasonium alisma} (Starfruit). The common was more open and grazed within living memory. No chemicals used on the Common for e.g. {\it Pteridium} control. Bracken fires have been maliciously started a few times.  Paths cleared manually when necessary.There is much local use of the Common for walking.There is some mountain biking but this is not perceived to be a problem. The owners do not wish to attract picnicking and its associated litter.

The depressions in the wood were caused by digging for lime for the local brickworks that was North of the Common. Some shafts have collapsed and been filled in.


VEG:
The woodland is situated at the eastern end. It is dominated by {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Ulmus procera} (ht. less than 8m). The peripheral areas of scrub are a mixture of {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}. There are trimmed {\it C. monogyna} dominated hedgerows along parts  of the southern and northern boundaries.

MANAGE:
No ongoing management apparent apart from regular grass cutting and hedge trimming.


FAUNA:
Birds: Seen during survey: Wood pigeon, Jay, Great-spotted Woodpecker, Magpie, Willow Warbler, Blue Tit, Blackcap, Cuckoo. Recorded: Moorhen, Blackbird, Long-tailed Tit, Yellowhammer, Robin.

Mammals: Grey Squirrel.

Amphibia: Great Crested Newt, Smooth Newt, Common Frog.

Butterflies: Seen during survey: {it Inachis io} (Peacock), {\it Gonepteryx rhamni} (Brimstone), {\it Aglais urticae} (Small tortoiseshell). Recorded: {\it Artogeia rapae} (Small White),{\it Pyronia tithonus} (Gatekeeper),{\it Lasiommata megera} (Wall Brown),{\it Vanessa atalanta} (Red admiral), {\it Pieris brassicae} (Large White), {\it Artogeia rapae} (Green-veined White), {\it Thymelicus flavus} (Small skipper).

Moths: There 13 records of moths on this Common, including {\it Agrotis exclamationis} (Heart and Dart), {\it Crocallis elinguaria} (Scalloped Oak), {\it Diarsia mendica} (Ingrailed clay), {\it Eupithecia icterata} (Tawny-speckled Pug), {\it Noctua pronuba} (Large Yellow underwing). {\it Eilema complana} (Scarce footman), {\it Xanthorhoe ferrugata} (Dark-barred Twin-spot carpet).

10 records exist for Heteroptera and 15 for Homoptera.

VEG:
Over 131 species are recorded from this Common including 15 from Cholesbury pond.

The southern section of the Common near Vale Farm is woodland with {\it Quercus robur, Prunus avium} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. Some {\it Corylus avellana} is coppiced by the road to Heath End. Some dumping occurs below the Pub car-park.

Hawridge Common is woodland with more open areas with {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Betula} sp. invading. {\it Ulex europaeus, Molinia caerulea} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}. Some {\it Calluna vulgaris} survives in patches.

Cholesbury Common has more {\it Pteridium aquilinum} invaded grassland at its eastern end with several bonfire sites. The central and northern parts of this Common is {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula} sp. dominated woodland with an understorey of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium, Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. Near Cholesbury Bottom a lower,wetter much more shaded area has some {\it Taxus baccata, Fraxinus excelsior, Prunus avium} and scrub species. The triangle of woodland at the northernmost point of the Common has much {\it Prunus avium} with {\it Quercus robur}. The ground flora is largely {\it Rubus fruticosus, Clematis vitalba} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}. Garden waste is dumped here.
A pond to the west of the cricket ground is well-maintained with {\it Iris pseudocorus, Typha latifolia, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Tussilago farfara} by the road. The pond is recorded as one of the first sites for {\it Crassula helmsii}.

The pond on the east side of the cricket ground had almost dried up at the time of survey after an uncommonly dry winter and spring. Some {\it Glyceria fluitans} and {\it Ranunculus aquatilis} was evident. It has been cleared out by Bucks County Council within the last 2 years. The unmown grass around the pitch had {\it Taraxacorum} sp.,{\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Conopodium majus, Plantago lanceolata, Achillea millefolium} and {\it Agrostis stolonifera}.

The parts of the Common either side of Ray's Hill are woodland with more {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} than the rest of the Common. Small areas of grass verge contain some garden escapes and daffodils together with {\it Hyancinthoides non-scripta, Ranunculus ficaria} and {\it Potentilla sterilis}.

MANAGE:
The recreational and amenity areas of the Common, as well as the paths, seem well managed. The remaining grassland and heath could be enhanced by the further control of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scrub.


FAUNA:
Birds: Seen during survey - Mallard, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Wood pigeon, Chaffinch, Geese.

VEG:
The smallest of the ponds seemed the most interesting at the time of survey with {\it Iris pseudocorus, Menyanthes trifoliata, Caltha palustris, Nymphea lutea} with {\it Salix} sp. at the edges.

The largest of the ponds had least vegetation interest, possibly due to grazing by geese. The third pond supported {\it Glyceria fluitans, Iris pseudocorus, Typha latifolia}.

The amenity grassland has isolated {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Taxus baccata, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Cypress} sp. planted.

A small area of woodland lies between the ponds and Wapseys Lane with {\it Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} with an understorey of {\it Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Taxus baccata}. The ground flora includes {\it Rumex} sp.,{\it Allarium ursinum, Anthriscus sylvestris, Arum maculatum, Ranunculus ficaria}.

A wetter and ditched area of the grass supports much {\it Cardamine pratensis} and {\it Luzula campestris}.

Proceeding SW towards Hedgerley the sides of the track change from amenity grassland to woodland.

MANAGE:
The track is well-maintained by frequent use. The geese may prevent the largest pond from achieving a greater species diversity.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Wood pigeon, Blackbird, Chiffchaff.

VEG:
The wood has high {\it Quercus robur, Prunus avium} and some {\it Betula} sp. The understorey is of {\it Ilex aquifolium, Corylus avellana, Taxus baccata}, and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. Some ornamental {\it Prunus} sp. trees grow by the road. The ground flora at the time of survey was mostly {\it Mercuralis perennis, Hedera helix, Rubus fruticosus, Urtica dioica, Anthriscus sylvestris, Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Stellaria holostea} and some garden escape species. The pond contained {\it Iris pseudocorus}.

MANAGE:
The pond area is visually attractive due to the large {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} trees (with {\it Taxus baccata} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}) that are around the side away from the road. However these rather overshade the pond, which would be enhanced by 'opening up' and planting with suitable species. Rubbish (e.g. TV set) needs to be removed.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Yellowhammer, Linnet, Great Tit, Wood pigeon, House Martin, Swallow.

VEG:
The track leading from Bellingdon Farm along Hawridge Lane is an old track bordered with {\it Acer campestre, Ilex aquifolium, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra}, and coppiced {\it Corylus avellana}. Ground flora plants include {\it Mercuralis perennis, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Anthriscus sylvestris, Galium aparine, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Urtica dioica, Geranium robertianum, Dactylis glomerata, Vicia sativa, Geum urbanum, Heracleum sphondylium}.

The Chesham road section is largely road verge which is mown on sections of the Southwestern side. There is much {\it Aegopodium podagraria, Centuarea nigra, Anthriscus sylvestris} and, near the turning onto Peppett's Green some {\it Helianthemum nummularium}.

Peppett's Green is a footpath with a wide border which supports large {\it Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior}, and {\it Prunus avium}. The ground flora contains {\it Aegopodium podograria, Silene dioica, Lamium album, Hyancinthoides non-scripta, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Ranunculus repens}.

Bank Green has a wide verge of disturbed grassland to its eastern end with ruderal species  such as {\it Urtica dioica, Cirsium} sp., and {\it Melilotus officinalis}. Some planted {\it Tilia europaea} and {\it Prunus} sp. are to be found.

The road to Cherry Tree Farm has a wid verge on its eastern side with much {\it Dactylis glomerata}, patches of {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Galium verum}, and {\it Holcus lanatus, Plantago lanceolata, Artemisia vulgaris, Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus} sp. Isolated {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Prunus} sp. may be found. 

The southernmost section that passes Ashridge Farm has a wide verge of grassland backed by {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Aesculus hippocastanum}. The verge contains {\it Lotus corniculatus, Holcus lanatus, Stellaria graminea, Plantago lanceolata, Ranunculus repens, Rumex} sp. {\it Achillea millefolium, Lolium perenne, Centaurea nigra, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Cornus sanguinea}.

MANAGE:
The current active management of this common consists of road verge mowing, lopping of trees under power lines (see near Asheridge Farm), some tree planting and the placing of wooden posts to stop cars encroaching on roadsides.

The tree lopping under power lines has been done rather crudely. In some cases it might be easier to take the whole tree down and replant with smaller species if this was locally acceptable.

Mowing of roadside verges, if at all necessary, should be done after plants have set seed.


FAUNA:
Three Meadow Brown butterflies ({\it Maniola jurtina}) were seen. Birds: Blackbird, House sparrow, Blue tit, Chaffinch.

VEG:
Along most of the length of the verges, there are mature hedgerows (3 to 6m high and up to 6m wide) of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium, Sambucus nigra, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Rosa} sp., with  frequent {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} trees, plus occasional {\it Acer campestre, A. pseudoplatanus, Populus} sp., {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Carpinus betulus}. Many of the trees (especially {\it Fraxinus excelsior}) are old coppice trees. Ground flora species include locally abundant {\it Mercurialis perennis, Hedera  helix, Glechoma hederacea, Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Galium aparine} with occasional {\it Solanum dulcamara} and {\it Carex hirta}, and (along the edge of the road),  rank {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}.

The road side verges in the village are mostly amenity grassland. Outside the village, they are generally covered with {\it Anthriscus sylvestris} and {\it Urtica dioica}, or have been covered with shrub species, to form (with the original hedgerow), small areas of dense scrub.

MANAGE:
Some short sections of hedgerow near the village appear to be subject to regular cutting. The denser areas of hedgerow and scrub provide good areas of cover for birds and small mammals.


FAUNA:
One small tortoiseshell butterfly ({\it Aglais urticae}) seen in the northern section. Birds: Blackbird, Song Thrush.

VEG:
On the main area of the common, there is a mature standard {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} tree, with some younger (ht:5-8m) planted trees of the same species. Along the boundary, there are occasional {\it Betula} sp. trees and {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Ilex aquifolium} bushes.

At the southern end of the common, there is a small pond (no standing water at time of survey) which contains abundant {\it Glyceria fluitans}. It is fringed with stands of {\it Iris pseudacorus}.

The northern most section of the common contains a small area of dense scrub ({\it Sambucus nigra, Ilex aquifolium, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Salix} sp.), fringed with stands of {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Cirsium arvense} (with {\it frequent Arrhenatherum elatius}) along the road.


VEG:
Most of the length of the common is occupied by woodland or dense scrub. Those parts fronting private residential properties are managed as amenity grassland.   

The dense scrub is dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa}, with locally frequent {\it Ulmus} sp., {\it Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium, Sambucus nigra,  Rosa} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., plus occasional {\it Cornus sanguinea, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Tamus communis}. The small areas of woodland are dominated by {\it Fraxinus excelsior} (some coppiced), and {\it Quercus robur}, with frequent {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, plus  occasional {\it Acer campestre} and {\it Carpinus betulus}. The scrub species mentioned above form a dense understorey.  Ground flora species recorded include locally abundant {\it Hedera helix, Alliaria petiolata} and {\it Glechoma  hederacea}, with locally frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Urtica dioica, Geranium robertianum, Mercurialis perennis, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Stellaria holostea} and {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum}, plus occasional {\it Viola} sp., {\it Millium effusum, Melica  uniflora, Poa nemoralis, Digitalis purpurea} and {\it Dryopteris filix-mas}.      

At SU939998 (on the S. side of the road), there is a pond (about 40x20m in size) fringed with dense stands of {\it Typha latifolia} (up to 6m wide) and clumps of {\it Iris pseudacorus}, plus frequent {\it Solanum dulcamara} and occasional {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica}. The water was about 30cm deep at the time of survey.

MANAGE:
No ongoing management apparent apart from the maintainance of amenity grassland areas, and trimming (to prevent scrub spp. overhanging the road). The scrub and woodland provide a good cover for birds and small mammals, and should be retained.


FAUNA:
Birds: Wood Pigeon, Great Tit, Blackbird, Robin, Thrush.

Amphibia: Common Frog.

VEG:
The scrub to the west of the Church has some {\it Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Prunus avium} trees and a strong thicket of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ilex aquilinum}. Some pools exist in small hollows but are totally overshaded.The ground flora at the time of survey included {\it Hedera helix, Arum maculatum} and {\it Rosa} spp.

The scrub to the south of the site was less dense and included {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. 

The grassland areas to the North of the Church were mown and had isolated trees planted such as {\it Tilia europaea, Prunus} sp. and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. To the South of the Church the grassland appeared unmown and,at the time of survey contained {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Taraxacorum} spp. {\it Lamium purpureum, Achillea millefolium, Rumex} sp.,{\it Glechoma hederacea, Plantago lanceolata, Ranunculus ficaria} and {\it Ranunculus acris, Dactylis glomerata, Lolium perenne}.

150m to south of the public house lies a pond which is probably artificial. The banks support {\it Urtica dioica , Rumex} sp.,{\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Sarothamnus scoparius} and have been planted with trees and some garden plants such as Hyacinth. The pond contains {\it Juncus inflexus, Glyceria fluitans, Iris pseudocorus, Myosotis} sp.

MANAGE:
Ditchfield Common (once known as Lane End Common) has had records published as far back as 1867 (Britten H.W.Magazine). It was mentioned in the Flora of Buckinghamshire (1926). These records highlight {\it Carex} species such as {\it Carex muricata} and {\it Carex binervis} as well as {\it Pedicularis sylvatica} and {\it Veronica scutellata}. Records from 1956 add {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Centaurea cyanus} and {\it Achillea ptarmica} and a dozen or so other species then thought be rare.

Clearly the site has undergone a decline in wildlife interest in favour of amenity interest. The management of grassy areas for tidiness rather than diversity, the proximity to a busy road, the misuse of edges for car parking and a large bonfire site have contributed towards the decline. There has been some conservation activity at the pond site though this good initiative needs an after-care programme. An area of {\it Fallopia japonica} to the south of the pond needs to be sprayed with herbicide over several seasons to prevent a major infestation of the site. This has been done in the recent past.

The establishment of a local Common Committee with a Management Plan could lead to the enhancement of the Common and thus the enjoyment of it.


FAUNA:
Birds: Chiffchaff, Wood Pigeon, Blackbird, Mallard, Dunnock, Blackcap, Great Tit, Wren.

Mammals: Muntjac, Fox.

Butterflies: Large White, Brimstone.

VEG:
The northern part of the common is scrub with some standard trees. The scrub consists of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Salix} sp. and the ground flora is dominated, at the time of survey by {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Rubus fruticosus}.

The southern half has a wider variety of scrub species, including {\it Corylus avellana} and standard trees, usually {\it Quercus robur, Betula pubescens} and occasional {\it Malus sylvestris}. The ground flora, at the time of survey, was dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Urtica dioica}.

A central area of the southern half is a more open area that was probably heathland at one time. {\it Calluna vulgaris} was described as rare by previous recorders in 1988 and none was found by the present survey. The area is now dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with some {\it Salix} sp. invading.

To the South of this area lies a small pond with 6 Mallard, but very little emergent vegetation at the time of survey. 110 species are recorded from the site including {\it Chelidonium majus, Geum urbanum, Potentilla erecta, Viburnum opulus, Vinca minor, Taxus baccata, Tussilago farfara} and {\it Ornithogalum umbellatum. Laburnum anagyroides, Narcissus} sp. and {\it Cotoneaster} sp. are introduced garden escapes.

MANAGE:
Active management consists of some path clearance, recent thinning of trees that have over-shaded the pond and the installation of some nest boxes. Records from 1983 refer to mown and tall grassland which has all but disappeared under scrub and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. {\it Pteridium} has value for some birds e.g. Whinchat and in conjunction with {\it Viola} sp.it encourages some Fritillary butterflies. However the scale of infestation by {\it Pteridium} in the central part of Moor Common could be controlled especially around any remnants of heath vegetation.


FAUNA:
Birds: Stock Dove, Wood Pigeon, Great Tit, Nuthatch, Tree Creeper, Chiffchaff, Blackcap,
Jay, Willow warbler. Great-spotted Woodpecker.

BBONT have records of {\it Cecidozoan} (gall-forming) species. Examples include:
{\it Adricus kollari} (a gall wasp that gives rise to the Oak marble gall) and: {\it Phegobia fagi} (which causes the Smooth nail gall on Beech).(M.G.Young 1988)

Rabbits, grey squirrel.

VEG:
The roughly triangular northern section of Marlow Common is a secondary woodland with {\it Alnus glutinosa, Quercus robur, Prunus avium, Pinus sylvestris, Acer pseudoplatanus}. The understorey contains much {\it Ilex aquifolium} and some {\it Prunus laurocerasus}. The ground flora at the time of the site visit was dominated by large patches of {\it Rubus fruticosus} with {\it Lonicera periclymenum} present or other areas of {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta}. Records show 33 other plant species including {\it Carex remota, Geum urbanum, Rumex obtusifolius} and {\it Sorbus aria}. The roadside verges showed more diversity with species such as {\it Euphorbia amygdaloides} and {\it Fragaria vesca}.

A small area to the south of this section is a relic of heathland which was probably more widespread at one time.This contains {\it Calluna vulgaris, Galium saxatile, Ulex europaeus, Pteridium aquilinum, Betula pubescens} and {\it Rhytidiadelphus} sp. 

A narrow area to the north of this section, facing NW is amenity grassland with daffodils and isolated tall trees.

The Southern section of CL50 which is bisected by a minor road contains much tall {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Quercus robur}. Some pockets of {\it Betula pubescens} occur. Large patches of {\it Pinus sylvestris} with {\it Larix decidua} occur particularly around or in the old WWI trenches. There is limited ground flora, but some considerable bryophyte presence on the old earth banks that bound the common such as {\it Dicranum majus, Mnium Hornum, Hypnum cupressiforme} and {\it Leucobryum glaucum}.  

Small patches of {\it Calluna vulgaris} were found just outside the CL boundary to the south.

MANAGE:
The Northern section of the Common is fairly unmanaged except for maintainance of path access. Chestnut paling has been placed around the relic heathland area and some gorse removed. The paling and its gate needs mending or replacing.

The Woodland Trust seeks, in the long-term, to manage the Southern section of CL50 together with Pullingshill Wood (SSSI) as beech high forest. Natural regeneration and selective thinning should help enhance the rich ground flora of the SSSI, encourage a richer flora on the Common land area and minimize the spread of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. The Trust explains its intentions to the public clearly on public notices.


FAUNA:
Birds recorded during site visit:
Woodpigeon, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Jay, Wren.

Other fauna seen during site visit:
Muntjac.

VEG:
The main part of the site is dominated by {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} standards with occasional {\it Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. 

The understorey of the wood is largely {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} with occasional {\it Prunus laurocerasus, Corylus avellana, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Taxus baccata}.

The ground flora during the survey period was largely {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Arum maculatum, Galium aparine, Ranunculus ficaria, Hedera helix, Lonicera periclymenum, Ribes nigrum, Geranium robertianum} and scattered {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta}.

Previous records mention 75 species including {\it Artemesia vulgaris, Arctium minus, Ballota nigra, Euphorbia peplis, Lapsana communis, Melica uniflora, Sisymbrium officinale, Solanum dulcamara, Rumex sanguineus}. Disturbed areas attract {\it Urtica dioica} and some {\it Digitalis purpurea}.

A few garden escapes such as {\it Hesperis matronalis} (Dame's violet), {\it Narcissus} sp., {\it Hyacinth} and {\it Myosotis} sp. have grown where garden waste has been dumped near the minor road.

MANAGE:
The main part of the wood shows no active management. As with other sites the most active management involved the cutting back of scrub woodland that grew under power lines. The {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Corylus avellana} has been recently lopped to about 2m high. This contrasts with other sites where scrub under power lines was cut to the ground. 

Inspection of large trees alongside the road may reveal trees that should be cut back or felled for road safety. Some opening up of the canopy may, in any case, increase the diversity of the ground flora. Small heaps of rubbish should be removed.


FAUNA:
Birds: Wood Pigeon, Blue Tit, Great Tit seen during site visit.

Mammals: Squirrel, Bank Vole, (unused Badger sett).

VEG:
The majority of Hunridge Wood is even-aged high {\it Fagus sylvatica} woodland with occasional {\it Prunus avium} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. Large areas have no understorey but fair-sized {\it Ilex aquifolium} exists in some areas. Little ground flora prevailed at the time of survey except {\it Rubus fruticosus} and {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} in patches. The western edge of the Wood is {\it Betula} sp. dominated with some {\it Sorbus aucuparia} with a {\it Rubus fruticosus, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} ground flora. The site is designated as 'Ancient semi-natural woodland' in the Bucks Inventory of Ancient Woodland. The Anglo-Roman camp has quite steep embankments which surrounds a perched small plateau. This supports {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Ranunculus ficaria, Arum maculatum, Galium aparine, Circaea lutetiana, Carex remota, Epilobium palustre, Carex sylvatica, Lysimachia nemorum. Epipactis helleborine} is recorded from here.

The banks surrounding the wood and some embankments within it support good bryophyte growth especially {\it Mnium hornum, Dicranella varia} and {\it Leucobryum glaucum}.

{\it Digitalis purpurea, Luzula pilosa} (large patches) {\it Prunus laurocerasus, Holcus lanatus, Juncus bufonius, Juncus effusus, Festuca rubra, Solanum dulcamara} are also recorded from the site.

A large specimen of {\it Quercus robur} stands near the point where the path from S. Heath enters the Common.

Seven fungi are recorded from the site: {\it Piptoporus betulinus} - Birch Polypore (on {\it Betula}), {\it Pleurotus ostreatus} - Oyster mushroom (on {\it Fagus}), {\it Russula mairei}- Beechwood sickener {\it Fagus}. {\it Tricholoma argyraceum} {\it Pinus} or {\it Fagus}. {\it Amarita excelsa}. Deciduous or coniferous woodland {\it Agaricus augusta}- The Prince. Decid/Conif woods {\it Clitocybe dealbata}. Lawns or pastureland. {\it Phallus impudicus} - seen during later visit.

MANAGE:
The Common performs a valuable function as a walking and dog-walking area for the village of South Heath which is otherwise rather hemmed in by fields. Some thinning of the {\it Fagus sylvatica} has been done in the past. Further thinning could be undertaken for habitat diversity. The {\it Betula}-dominated area is presumably drying out and will be invaded by {\it Fagus sylvatica} unless active management prevents this.

An old pond to the west of the centre of the common that is full of leaf mould to quite a depth could be cleared out and the area opened up to allow a diverse flora and fauna to develop.


FAUNA:
Large White ({\it Pieris brassicae}) and Small tortoiseshell ({\it Aglais urticae}) butterflies were seen at the southern end of the common.

VEG:
The poor semi-improved grassland (B6) is situated in the NW quarter of the common. It is a mixture of {\it Lolium  perenne, Bromus hordeaceus, Alopecurus pratensis, Cynosurus cristatus} and {\it Poa} spp., with frequent {\it Potentilla reptans, Trifolium repens, Ranunculus acris, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Achillea millefolium}, plus occasional {\it Galium verum, Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Geranium dissectum}. Shallow depressions situated near the CL boundary in this area contain abundant {\it Alopecurus geniculatus}, with frequent {\it Potentilla anserina} and {\it Ranunculus sceleratus} where the ground has been poached by cattle.  
 
The other main area of interest is Cress Brook, situated along the southern boundary of the common. It is fringed with {\it Veronica beccabunga, Apium nodiflorum, Rorripa nasturtium-aquaticum, Sparganium erectum} and {\it Lycopus europaeus}. Where the bank is cattle poached, there is frequent {\it Ranunculus sceleratus}. Mature {\it Salix fragilis} trees overhang the brook along the southern boundary. Where the brook diverges  from the boundary, towards the road bridge, it contains abundant {\it Eleocharis palustris} with occasional {\it Glyceria fluitans} and {\it Myosotis scorpioides}. West of the bridge, it ends in a wide, muddy, cattle trampled depression with pools of water containing occasional stands of {\it Sparganium erectum}, and fringed with occasional {\it Glyceria fluitans}. The boundaries dividing the common from adjacent fields consist of wire fencing and discontinuous {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominated hedgerows with mature {\it Salix fragilis} trees (some pollards).

MANAGE:
Parts of the common may once have been much wetter than they are today, and less heavily grazed. They have the potential to support more species diverse marshy grassland or wet neutral  grassland habitats. The present level of grazing  on the common limits the development of such habitats, as would the use of fertilizers and herbicides.


FAUNA:
2 small tortoiseshell butterflies ({\it Aglais urticae}) seen.

VEG:
The land around the pond is wet and heavily poached - at the eastern end it is bare mud. The pond is fringed with patches of {\it Glyceria fluitans} and frequent {\it Ranunculus sceleratus} (this also occurs in the surrounding heavily poached sward), plus occasional {\it Veronica beccabunga} and {\it Scrophularia aquatica}. Along the northern boundary, there is a stand of {\it Typha latifolia} (about 2m wide). A channel (2-5m wide) branches off the NW corner of the pond. It shaded by a {\it Salix fragilis} tree and the boundary hedge and contains stands of {\it Sparganium erectum}, with  occasional {\it Iris pseudacorus}. There are 3 mature {\it Salix fragilis} trees around the pond, which partially overhang the water. 

The grass sward is a mixture of {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum,  Bromus hordeaceus, Dactylis glomerata, Lolium perenne} and {\it Poa} spp., with locally abundant {\it Achillea millefolium} and {\it Rumex acetosa}, plus locally frequent {\it Potentilla reptans,  Galium verum, Ranunculus acris, R. repens, Plantago  lanceolata, Cirsium arvense, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Bellis perennis}. At SU925798, there is a pond site (about 15m wide), which now contains abundant {\it Carex  hirta}, with frequent {\it Potentilla anserina}.  

There is a discontinuous boundary hedge (upto 4m high and wide) of {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Sambucus nigra} along most  of the northern boundary.  It is fringed with dense stands of {\it Urtica dioica} (up to 5m wide). Along the western  boundary, there is a wire fence with occasional {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ulex europaeus} bushes, and patches of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Along the southern boundary, there is a hedge (up to 4m high and wide) of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Ulmus} sp., with occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Ulex europaeus}.

MANAGE:
The eastern half of the common is heavily grazed, and this has caused excessive poaching. The ground is generally wetter than on the eastern side of the farm access track, and may once have supported a more  species diverse marshy grassland or wet  neutral grassland habitat. As a whole, the common has probably been subject to improvement practices such as fertilizer and herbicide application and partial re-seeding.


FAUNA:
Two moorhen and six mallard were seen on the pond. Other birds: Blackbird, Blue tit, Chiffchaff, House sparrow.

VEG:
The dense scrub along the northern and NW perimeters is a mixture of {\it Salix} spp.,{\it Corylus avellana, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}, with occasional {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}. Some {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Salix} spp. bushes have been coppiced. At the northern end of the common, water from the pond extends under the scrub, where there are scattered clumps of {\it Iris pseudocorus} with frequent {\it Solanum dulcamara} and a discontinuous cover of {\it Lemna} sp. Also at this end, the scrub contains scattered mature standard and (old) coppiced {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees. Along the western side of the pond, there are mature {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Salix fragilis} trees.

The pond is mostly fringed with dense stands of {\it Glyceria maxima} (1 to 4m wide). At the northern end (along the edge of the scrub), there are dense stands of {\it Typha latifolia}, up to 5m wide. There is also occasional {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica} and {\it Lycopus europaeus}. At the southern end, there is a large mature {\it Salix babylonica} tree. Two mature {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} trees are situated in the middle of the grassed area, diagonally opposite Laytersgreen Farm.

The small areas of woodland are situated at the southern end of the common, and are dominated by mature standard {\it Quercus robur} trees, with locally frequent {\it Fraxinus excelsior} (some coppiced) plus occasional {\it Betula pubescens} and coppiced {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. There is good regeneration, especially of {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. The understorey consists of {\it Ilex aquifolium, Corylus avellana} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}, with occasional {\it Rosa} sp. - it is impenetrable in places. The most abundant ground flora species are {\it Hedera helix} and {\it Galium aparine}; there is also frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Alliaria petiolata, Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum, Poa nemoralis, Carex sylvatica, Anthriscus sylvestris, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Dryopteris dilatata}, plus occasional {\it Narcissus} sp. (planted), {\it Arum maculatum} and {\it Dryopteris filix-mas}.

MANAGE:
Apart from the maintenance of amenity grassland and coppicing of scrub spp. as mentioned above, there does not appear to be any other form of ongoing management. It  appears that tracks have been placed through the woodland at the southern end of the common (since the CL register map was  produced) to allow access to adjacent private residential properties.


FAUNA:
Birds: Seen during survey: Robin, Pheasant, Great-spotted woodpecker. Great Tit, Blue Tit, Chaffinch, Willow warbler. Recorded: House Sparrow, Coal Tit, Marsh Tit, Bullfinch, Blackbird, Wren, Nuthatch, Sparrowhawk, Long-tailed Tit, Tree-creeper and Lesser-spotted Woodpecker. Green Woodpecker, Stock Dove, Tawny Owl, Jay, Magpie.

Butterflies: Small and Large White, Comma, Meadow Brown, Speckled Wood and Purple Hairstreak, Common Blue.

Dragonflies: Southern Hawker.

Mammals: Grey Squirrel, Muntjac, Rabbit, Fox.
Amphibia: Common Frog, Smooth Newt.

The ancient pollards are important habitat for 
invertebrates.

VEG:
The Common is mostly {\it Quercus robur-Fagus sylvatica} woodland with some stands of almost pure {\it Quercus robur}.There is an occasional {\it Quercus petraea}. Other tall species include {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Prunus avium, Sorbus aucuparia}. Understorey trees include {\it Ilex aquifolium} (some large specimens),{\it Taxus baccata, Malus sylvestris, Betula pendula, Sorbus aria}. There are many ancient pollards of {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Quercus robur} which have survived from the wood-pasture management of earlier times. Some {\it Carpinus betulus} can be found near the edge of the woodland 

Over 140 species are noted for Naphill Common including {\it Circaea lutetiana, Carex remota, Carex riparia, Carex pilulifera, Geranium sanguineum, Festuca gigantea} and ancient woodland indicator species {\it Hordelymus europaeus}.

The Ponds support {\it Glyceria fluitans, Ranunculus flammula}, and {\it Juncus} sp. but suitable management has successfully, if intermittently, restored populations of {\it Damasonium alisma}. Daisy pond included {\it Lagarosiphon major} and {\it Crassula helmsii} prior to restoration.

Some remnants of heath persist and {\it Calluna vulgaris, Galium saxatile, Achillea ptarmica} and {\it Campanula rotundifolia} with {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} can be found.

MANAGE:
Naphill (and Downley) Commons are the focus of quite intensive management interest.The SSSI citation of 1951 (revised 1981,notified 1988) refers to the importance of the site as an unmanaged stand of native trees for comparison with more managed stands. Current debate, however revolves around the idea of the reinstatement of wood pasture which would involve some clearance of the parts of the site under a Woodland Management Grant. A start has been made on the eastern side of the Common by clearance of the edge and the widening of a ride that is parallel with this edge. Local horse riders would like this ride to be surfaced. The re-instatement of wood-pasture would require fencing which presents a legal problem as it is illegal to fence a common. A Naphill Commons Committee has been formed to provide a forum for this and other issues such as the after-care of the results of future initiatives.

The Committee has proposed a revision of maps to reflect more accurately the footpaths on site. Stricter control of horse-riding is proposed due to the damage to paths in wet weather.

The site of a Romano-British farmstead, just south of Lady Horse pond is a County Archaeological site but has not been fully investigated. Pottery was found when the pond nearby (which may be of the same age) was cleared.

Bucks County Council has been involved with the restoration of ponds with particular reference to the encouragement of {\it Damasonium alisma}.

The remnants of heathland could be enhanced by controlling invasive {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scrub.

{\it Fallopia japonica} needs eradication from where it is established near Moseley Road on the Western edge of the Common.

Naphill shows, more than many sites, the historically crucial contribution of Common Land status and rights to the high conservation status of the area.


FAUNA:
Birds: Willow Tit, Chaffinch, Wood Pigeon, Great-spotted woodpecker, Nuthatch recorded during this survey. Over 70 breeding bird species are recorded for the SSSI as a whole including Little Owl, Lesser spotted woodpecker, Firecrest, Hawfinch, Linnet, Redpoll.

Butterflies: Brimstone (Seen during survey)
Also recorded for the whole Ashridge Estate:
23 species of butterfly, 10 species of hoverfly, 8 species of bug, 3 species of leafhopper, 4 species of planthopper.
	
For further details see Ivinghoe Common CL99

VEG:
Most of Pitstone Common is {\it Quercus robur, Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Betula} sp. secondary woodland. There are small areas of more open ground which are often dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. The ground flora at the time of survey included patches of {\it Mercuralis perennis, Holcus mollis, Rubus fruticosus, Urtica dioica} (in disturbed areas), {\it Anemone nemorosa} and {\it Molinia caerulea} in damper areas.

A pond at the most South-eastern point contained {\it Lemna minor, Juncus} sp. and {\it Salix} sp. and seemed surprisingly species poor.

For more details of the recorded flora of the Ashridge Estate see Ivinghoe Common CL99

MANAGE:
Pitstone Common is managed to encourage the further development of mixed broad-leaved woodland of varying age. Few trees are estimated to be over 70 years old. The pond near Moneybury hill was dry at the time of survey (after quite a dry winter). The site was overshaded and could be opened up for more plant species diversity.


FAUNA:
One red admiral butterfly ({\it Vanessa atlantica}) seen.

Birds:  Blackbird, Woodpigeon, Blue tit.

VEG:
The woodland is dominated by mature {\it Quercus robur}, with frequent {\it Fraxinus excelsior} (some coppiced),plus occasional {\it Fagus sylvatica} (mature standards), {\it Acer campestre} and {\it Alnus glutinosa}. There is good regeneration, especially of {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. The understorey is a mixture of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus  spinosa, Sambucus nigra, Corylus avellana} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}, with occasional {\it Rosa} sp. and {\it Bryonia dioica}. Ground flora species include frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Glechoma hederacea, Mercurialis perennis, Stachys sylvatica, Galium aparine} and {\it Geranium robertianum}, plus occasional {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, {\it Lunaria annua} and {\it Arum maculatum}.  

Along the track which crosses the common, there are patches of rank grassland dominated by {\it Dactylis glomerata}, with frequent {\it Holcus lanatus, Poa} spp., {\it Rumex obtusifolius} and {\it R. acetosa}, plus occasional {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Urtica dioica}.

MANAGE:
The common does not appear to be subject to livestock grazing. No ongoing management apparent, apart from the coppicing mentioned above.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Great spotted Woodpecker, Blackbird, Blue tit, Mallards, Pheasant, Green Woodpecker, Starlings, Magpie, Wood Pigeon. Also Grey Squirrel.
Grazing goat. Butterflies: Speckled Wood.

VEG:
The northern section of Downley Common that extends directly from Naphill Common is broadleaved woodland that opens out into grassland as one proceeds south. The woodland has mainly {\it Quercus robur, Fagus sylvatica} with some {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. Understorey trees include {\it Ilex aquifolium} and some {\it Taxus baccata}. Mannings Pond, near the northern limit of the common has {\it Carex rostrata, Glyceria fluitans, Lemna minor, Juncus spp. Iris pseudocorus, Ranunculus aquatilis} It is shaded by {\it Prunus spinosa, Quercus robur} and {\it Salix} sp. which has been thinned in recent years. The pond is one of the ponds where it hoped to re-establish {\it Damasonium alisma} but none was seen in June '96. The species-rich grass areas contain much {\it Dactylis glomerata, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Primula veris, Vicia sp. Achillea millefolium}. Some scrub containing {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} is found in this area. The playing field area near Blacksmith's Cottage is bordered to the south by scrub ({\it Prunus, spinosa, Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna}) and to the East and South-east by acidic/neutral grassland which includes {\it Rumex acetosa, Luzula campestris, Nardus stricta, Hypochoeris radicata, Poa annua, Holcus lanatus, Centaurea nigra, Dactylis glomerata, Galium saxatile, Ulex} sp. {\it Cerastium fontanum}. Some of this area is rabbit-grazed and walkers paths are well-established. 

On the eastern side of this grassland area a small patch of {\it Calluna vulgaris} is found with some {\it Ulex} sp. There is also a small patch of garden-escaped cultivated poppies. 

The sides of the small valley in the southern section of the common are wooded with {\it Quercus robur, Fagus sylvatica}. The southernmost part, Commonside, is grassland with some isolated trees such as {\it Prunus} sp. {\it Salix, Crataegus monogyna, Malus domestica, Quercus robur} .

MANAGE:
The northern section adjoining Naphill Common is receiving attention from several sources. It is included in the document prepared for the West Wycombe Estate in association with English Nature, Naphill Common Committee, Downley Common Preservation Society by C.J.Smith. The southern section of Downley Common is managed more for amenity use.Seats and paths (some eroded) testify to much use for walking. Recent new signs reflect concern about dog nuisance. The wooded areas here could be managed to promote {\it Quercus robur} which may in time succumb to {\it Fagus sylvatica}. The Commonside area to the south is mown by the Parish Council. The small patch of {\it Calluna Vulgaris} (see map) should be safeguarded and if possible encouraged to spread. The {\it Fallopia japonica} south of the playing fields by the road should be eradicated chemically as soon as possible.


FAUNA:
Birds: House sparrow, Goldfinch, Pheasant, Green Woodpecker, Lesser Whitethroat, Wren, Wood Pigeon, Magpie, Chiffchaff.
Mammals: Rabbits, Muntjac, Badger (sett)

Butterflies: {\it Pieris brassicae} (Large White), {\it Pieris rapae} (Small White),{\it Anthocharis cardamines} (Orange Tip), {\it Polyommatus icarus} (Common Blue), {\it Aglais urticae} (Small Tortoiseshell), {\it Ochlodes venatus} (Large Skipper), {\it Aphantopus hyperantus} (Ringlet), {\it Maniola jurtina} (Meadow Brown), {\it Pyronia tithonus} (Gatekeeper), {\it Inachis io} (Peacock).

Moths: {\it Epirrhoe alternata} (Common Carpet), {\it Abraxas grossulariata} (Magpie Moth).

VEG:
The section of the Common to the West of Bolter End Lane is substantially {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with thickets of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} scrub.
The {\it Pteridium aquilinum} dominated areas have some {\it Salix} sp.,{\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Betula} sp. trees within them. There is also {\it Ulex europaeus, Rubus fruticosus} and some patches of {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta}. On the slopes of the southern side {\it Betula} sp. is invading fast downslope.

The scrub thickets have some tall trees, for example, {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. A pond can be found along the southern edge of this part of the Common which  has become overshaded. Some {\it Glyceria fluitans} survives here.

The larger, northern section of the Common also has a pond near the playing field with {\it Juncus} spp. and {\it Iris pseudocorus}. The mown grass of the playing field area grades to more species-rich grassland to the South. An area dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with {\it Rubus fruticosus} occupies the area to the North of the allotment gardens. Paths or rides cross this area which are free of bracken by mowing or trampling.

Over 90 plant species are recorded for the main section of Wheeler End Common including {\it Artemisia vulgaris, Mentha rotundifolia, Stachys sylvatica, Bryonia dioica}.  

The northernmost part of Wheeler End Common is little used though a path does cross it. This former grassland has become invaded by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Urtica dioica} with some {\it Glechoma hederacea, Rubus fruticosus} and {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta}. The edges are becoming wooded.

MANAGE:
The section of CL74 to the West of Bolter End Lane is the focus of considerable interest in terms of future management. This is along the lines of extending areas of grassland, heathland and restoration of the pond. The latter could be a site for the reintroduction of {\it Damasonium alisma} (Starfruit). Bracken and scrub would necessarily have to be controlled.
Some rubbish was found during the present survey and wooden bollards preventing vehicles from turning off Bolter End Road have rotted and broken.

The main section of CL74 is maintained by pressure of use for recreation and mowing. The pond near the playing fields needs some clearing out, selective planting and ongoing after-care. Some (accidental ?) burning has burnt off some gorse to the east of the playing field. The infestation of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} could be reduced by determined effort to increase biological diversity.

A dark tarry gravel has been used on the rough road to the North of the playing field. This smells of bitumen in sunny weather and may cause petroleum based chemicals to be leached into the surrounding land.


FAUNA:
Birds: Wood Pigeon, Blue Tit, Blackbird, Chaffinch.

Other fauna: None seen during survey except grazing donkey.

VEG:
The scrub was dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with some trees especially {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.The ground flora was dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with some {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}.

The mown grassland area had isolated {\it Crataegus monogyna, Betula pendula} and thickets of {\it Ulex europaeus}.

Areas opposite housing to the SE of the Common were mown and had much {\it Luzula campestris, Ranunculus acris, R. ficaria, Leontodon autumnalis} and {\it Rumex} sp.

A wet (old pond?) area (G21) had {\it Glyceria fluitans, Ranunculus crispus} and {\it R. aquatilis}.

MANAGE:
For its present uses the Common seems managed accordingly by Wycombe District Council.
A Management Plan has been written C.J.Smith (Farm and Countryside Liaison Services).
Some scrub could be cleared to encourage a more diverse ground flora. The wet (G21) area could be enlarged and planted with suitable species to enhance ecological interest of this amenity grassland area.

The dark tarry gravel surface on the driveway across the southern side of CL77 has a bitumen smell on warm days.Petroleum-based chemical might leach from this material.


FAUNA:
Birds: Wood pigeon, Chaffinch, Blue Tit.
Amphibia: Common Frog.

VEG:
The common is in two section divided by a road that goes north over the M40. The northern section is largely amenity grassland with isolated planted trees such as {\it Aesculus hippocastanum}. On the embankment of the road that leads over the motorway there is a broadleaf plantation that includes: {\it Corylus avellana, Prunus} sp., {\it Viburnum lantana, Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa}. A ground flora dominated by {\it Anthriscus sylvestris} has developed.

The southern section of the common has dense scrub with a few trees on its western side including {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Quercus robur}. The main part of this section is grassland with some planted {\it Aesculus hippocastanum}.

Over 90 plant species are recorded from the common. Of particular interest are {\it Tamus communis, Stachys sylvatica, Ribes uva-crispa}.

A small stream to the south of the site that may have fed an old pond now dominated by scrub has {\it Iris pseudocorus} and {\it Equisetum fluviatile} with {\it Fallopia japonica} and innumerable tadpoles.

MANAGE:
The amenity grassland on the northern section is maintained by mowing.The scrub on the southern section could be thinned to enhance ground flora. The well-maintained area around the stream to the south of site is threatened by Fallopia japonica which should be treated with herbicide for several seasons.


FAUNA:
Birds: Dunnock, Blackcap, Crow, Great-spotted woodpecker, Jay, Willow Tit, Blue Tit, Jackdaw, Bullfinch, Robin.

Mammals: Grey squirrel, Rabbit, Mole.

Amphibia: Frog

Butterflies: Speckled Wood, Small White, Small Skipper, Small Copper.

Moths: {\it Autographa gamma} (Silver Y)

Species of Acari, Hymenoptera and Diptera that are causative agents of plant galls are recorded. (M.G.Young 1988)

VEG:
The major part of the Moorend Common is {\it Quercus robur-Betula} sp. woodland with some {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Prunus avium}. The understorey consists of {\it Betula pendula} and {\it B. pubescens} with {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana} and {\it Ilex aquilinum} with occasional {\it Salix fragilis, S. cinerea} and {\it Taxus baccata}. The ground flora contains {\it Rubus fruticosus, Hedera helix, Circaea lutetiana, Geum urbanum, Galium odoratum} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

An area of wet to marshy acid grassland occurs over 2 or 3 acres in the southern part of the common.The wettest (lower) parts are {\it Juncus} sp. and {\it Molinia caerulea} dominated with {\it Galium uliginosum, Succisa pratensis, Dactylorhiza praetermissa} and {\it Epilobium palustre} recorded. {\it Pteridium aquilinum} has invaded parts of this area but has been cut. Further up the gentle slope of this area a marsh  supports {\it Typha latifolia} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and invading {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.The drier parts of the grassland have {\it Juncus conglomeratus, Holcus lanatus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Agostis capillaris} and {\it Nardus stricta}, the latter being rare in Bucks.

Pools to the west of the site support {\it Iris pseudocorus} and {\it Caltha palustris}. The NW corner of the common is an area of wet grassland with {\it Juncus} sp. and planted {\it Quercus robur}.

Fairly central to the northern half of the site lies an open grassland area with much {\it Luzula campestris, Carex pilulifera} and isolated {\it Betula} sp. This is U4 (NVC) or {\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Galium saxatile} grassland - a rare community in lowland England.

The earthen banks that define the boundary of the common on the eastern side support strong bryophyte growth notably of {\it Mnium hornum}.

Over 200 plant species are recorded from the site.

MANAGE:
The cessation of grazing at Moorend Common has lead to a succession to woodland over the larger part of the site. Management has been directed towards conserving the remaining heath grassland and acid marsh and thinning some of the woodland. 

A Conservation Committee consisting of local residents and representatives of Conservation bodies and the Parish Council became active in the 1970's and dealt with management, with some success, on a case by case basis. In the early 1980's a 5 year plan was adopted under the Conservation Committee.

This has involved thinning of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula} sp.,some coppicing,extraction of trees under power lines, clearance of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, and the implementation of a grass-cutting regime.

At the time of survey considerable efforts had gone in to felling under power lines and extraction of birch from grassland areas. Deadwood was highly evident.


FAUNA:
Birds:  Blackbird, House sparrow, Song thrush.

VEG:
Nearly all of the southern-most section is amenity grassland. A strip of {\it Salix fragilis} dominated woodland is situated along the NE boundary of the common  (adjacent  to the River Chess) - a small part of this extends into the eastern corner of the common. Along the SE boundary, there is a bank of tall herb vegetation dominated by {\it Anthriscus sylvestris} with frequent {\it Heracleum sphondylium}, {\it Fallopia japonica, Arrhenatherum  elatius} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}. There is a row of {\it Salix fragilis} trees along the stream at the bottom of the bank. {\it Prunus} sp., {\it Pinus} sp. and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} saplings have been planted along the top. Further north along the eastern boundary, there is a double row of mature {\it Populus} sp. trees.  

The two northern-most sections are divided by Moor Road. Most of the area of the section on the western is used as a car park; there is also a sports pavillion with hard tennis courts. There are mature {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} trees along the western boundary. A channelled stream contains abundant {\it Callitriche} sp. and {\it Glyceria fluitans}. The section to the east of the road is mostly amenity grassland, with mature {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} trees along the River Chess. A small unmown area containing frequent {\it Carex  hirta} with occasional {\it Cardamine pratensis} has been recorded as poor semi-improved grassland.

MANAGE:
Managed as an amenity grassland. There is some scope for extending the small area of poor semi-improved grassland in the northern section, and allowing it to develop into semi-improved neutral grassland with appropriate management.


FAUNA:
Birds: Recorded during survey: Coal Tit, Nuthatch, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Treecreeper, Pheasant, Chaffinch, Blackcap, Mallard.

From records: Swallow, Greenfinch.

Mammals: Muntjac, Common Shrew, Grey Squirrel. Rabbits.

Butterflies: {\it Polyommatus icarus} (Common Blue), {\it Mesoacidalia aglaja} (Dark-Green Fritillary) {\it Erynnis tages} (Dingy Skiper), {\it Callophrys rubi} (Green Hairstreak), {\it Artogeia rapae} (Green-veined White), {\it Ochlodes venatus} (Large Skipper), {\it Anthocharis cardamines} (Orange-tip) {\it Thymelicus flavus} (Small Skipper), {\it Maniola jurtina} (Meadow Brown), {\it Coenonympha pamphilus} (Small Heath), {\it Lasiommata megera} (Wall Brown) {\it Gonepteryx rhamni} (Brimstone) and {\it Inachis io} (Peacock), {\it Aglais urticae} (Small tortoiseshell)
	
Moths:  {\it Zygaena filipendulae} (6-spot Burnet Moth)

VEG:
The most developed woodland on the Common is in the south-eastern section. {\it Quercus robur, Prunus avium} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} predominate with an understorey of {\it Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium}. The ground flora at the time of survey consisted of {\it Rubus fruticosus} with {\it Lonicera peryclymenum} and patches of {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. The southern end of the whole common has substantial deadwood with a large artificial pile at point X. Patches {\it Mercuralis perennis} with {\it Ranunculus ficaria, Viola riviniana} are found in this woodland.

The triangle of grassland to the south of the Common is recorded as 'cornfield' in 1983 and is now edged with {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. {\it Chamerion angustifolium} is abundant throughout the field with some {\it Eupatorium cannabinum}.

The grassland at the centre of the Common was also 'cornfield' in 1983 and has {\it Trifolium repens}, {\it Rumex} spp.and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}. The northernmost corner of this area has {\it Molinia caerulea} with planted {\it Sorbus aria} and {\it Acer campestre}.

Three ponds lie in the woodland to the north of the Common.The most southern pond is shaded and has considerable {\it Juncus} sp. and dead leaves whilst the other 2 ponds are rather more healthy.

The woodland to the North of the Common has {\it Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Prunus avium} standards with an understorey of {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. The central area of this woodland abutting the road is more open, {\it Pteridium aquilinum} dominated with more scattered trees including {\it Malus domestica}.

A small area opposite a pub on the north-east facing side is used for car-parking with planted Daffodil, Forsythia and planted {\it Quercus} sp.

5 fungi are recorded from the site: {\it Lacrymaria velutina} (Weeping Widow), {\it Marasmius alliaceus, Psathyrella candolleana, Psilocybe semilanceata, Tubaria furfuracea}.

Previous surveys refer to over 60 plant species.

MANAGE:
The active use of the Common for recreation and grassland helps to limit {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scrub encroachment. However {\it P. aquilinum} could be more actively reduced along the west-facing edge of the Common. The 3 ponds in the northern wood could be enhanced substantially by reduced shading, clearance of accumulated leaf mould and some pro-active planting of water plants.


FAUNA:
Breeding Crested newts ({\it Triturus cristatus}) were recorded in the 1996 BBONT survey, also Common frogs ({\it Rana temporaria}).

VEG:
The woodland is mostly dominated by mature standard {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fagus sylvatica}, with locally abundant (standard and  old coppiced) {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, plus occasional {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. There is local regeneration of {\it Quercus robur, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. The understorey consists of {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} (some very tall - up to 7m). Ground flora species recorded: locally abundant  {\it Mercurialis perennis, Hedera helix, Glechoma hederacea, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Rubus fruticosus} agg.,{\it Brachypodium sylvaticum, Galium aparine, Aegopodium podagraria} and {\it Mnium hornum}, with locally frequent {\it Geum urbanum, Geranium robertianum, Conopodium majus, Alliaria petiolata, Anthriscus sylvestris, Millium effusum} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, plus occasional {\it Arum maculatum, Oxalis acetosella, Circaea lutetiana, Veronica montana} and {\it Dryopteris dilatata}.     

The pond at SU964992 contains dense stands of Iris pseudacorus, with frequent {\it Glyceria fluitans}. It is  surrounded by {\it Salix cinerea, Crataegus monogyna} and (on the western side) {\it Quercus robur} saplings. The 1986 BBONT survey also recorded {\it Bidens tripartita, Lythrum portula} and {\it Athyrium filix-femina}.

MANAGE:
The National Trust has selectively thinned some {\it Fagus sylvatica} and left deadwood for invertebrate habitat. The areas of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} to the east of the Common could be restricted to maintain grassland species.


FAUNA:
Birds: Seen during survey: Great tit, Blue tit, Chaffinch, Great-spotted woodpecker, Wood pigeon.
	
Mammals: Grey Squirrel, Rabbit.

VEG:
The western end of the Common has high {\it Fagus sylvatica} with some {\it Taxus baccata}. There is very little ground flora. Some large dead trunks left. Further upslope the {\it Fagus sylvatica} canopy acquires an understorey of {\it Salix} sp. {\it Ilex aquifolium, Sambucus nigra, Prunus avium} with a ground flora dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus, Pteridium aquilinum} with {\it Mercuralis perennis, Urtica dioica} and {\it Lamiastrum galeobdolon}.  Some {\it Phragmites} reed appears in wetter patches on the south side.

Near the entrance to Bradenham Hill Farm an area of grassy heathland with {\it Calluna vulgaris} survives. The wood around this area is thinned and some deadwood left.

At the top of the slope the woodland is a mix of {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Quercus robur} with some {\it Taxus baccata} and {\it Aesculus hippocastanum}. Some more open grassy areas include {\it Luzula campestris} and {\it Rumex acetosella} with large stands of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

Old banks define the edge of the Common with good bryophyte growth especially {\it Mnium hornum} and {\it Polytrichum} sp.

Near the border with Naphill Common there is {\it Corylus avellana} coppice under {\it Quercus robur}.

MANAGE:
Current management is centred on the survival of the small area of dry heath on the upper slopes of this Common. Small areas of more open grassland within the generally wooded common provide diversity of habitat and should be maintained.


VEG:
This small common looks as if it once supported mature oak and ash woodland. Stands of mature trees remain, but it appears that substantial gaps were created in the original canopy, which are now occupied by dense, almost impenetrable stands of juvenile trees and younger, spindly saplings; as well as {\it Quercus robur and Fraxinus excelsior}, there is abundant {\it Ulmus procera} with  frequent {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, plus occasional {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. There are occasional standing dead trees.    

The ground flora consists of abundant {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., with locally frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris,  Urtica dioica, Convolvulus arvensis, Poa nemoralis, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Geum urbanum} and {\it Juncus  effusus}, plus occasional {\it Dryopteris filix-mas, Solanum dulcamara, Deschampsia flexuosa, Rumex acetosella} and {\it Galium saxatile}.

MANAGE:
The common appears to be unmanaged. Any dead wood should not be removed, as this adds to the range of habitat niches available to invertebrates.


FAUNA:
Birds: Seen during survey: Dunnock, Great Tit, Chiffchaff, Wren, Great-spotted woodpecker, Pheasant, Wood Pigeon.
	                          **********
Recorded from Ashridge SSSI overall: Over 70 bird species including Nightingale, Redstart, Willow Tit, Redpoll, Hawfinch, Sparrowhawk, Lesser-spotted woodpecker.

Mammals: Bats: Pipistrelle, Greater Horseshoe, and Long-eared bats. Fox, Muntjac, grey squirrel, edible dormouse. Badger, Fallow deer.

Amphibia: Smooth, Great-Crested and Palmate newt.

Moths recorded: {\it Zygaena filipendulae} (Six-spot Burnet), {\it Cydia jungiella} {\it Callistege mi}.

Butterflies recorded:{\it Thymelicus sylvestris} Small skipper, {\it Thymelicus lineola} Essex skipper, {\it Hesperia comma} Silver-spotted skipper, {\it Ochlodes venata} Large skipper, {\it Erynnis tages} Dingy skipper, {\it Goneopteryx rhamni} Brimstone, {\it Pieris brassicae} Large white, {\it Pieris rapae} Small white, {\it Anthochars cardamines} Orange tip, {\it Callophrys rubi} Green hairstreak, {\it Celastrina argiolus} Holly blue, {\it Lycaena phlaeas} Small copper, {\it Cupido minimus} Small blue, {\it Aricia agestis} Brown argus, {\it Lysandra coridon} Chalk-hill blue, {\it Lysandra bellargus} Adonis blue, {\it Hamearis lucina} Duke of Burgundy, {\it Aglais urticaea} Small Tortoiseshell, {\it Inachis io} Peacock, {\it Argynnis aglaja} Dark Green Fritillary, {\it Parage aegaria} Speckled wood, {\it Melanargia galathea} Marbled White, {\it Pyronia tithonus} Gatekeeper, {\it Manolia jurtina} Meadow Brown, {\it Coenonympha pamphilus} Small Heath, {\it Aphantopus hyperantus} Ringlet, Ten records for hoverflies.

VEG:
The Common is largely broad-leaved semi-natural secondary woodland with {\it Quercus robur, Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Betula} spp. Some occasional conifers appear (in which firecrests nest) and there is a small conifer plantation near the centre of the Common. Within the general context of woodland there are areas of dry heath/acid grassland with {\it Calluna vulgaris, Ulex europaeus, Galium saxatile, Rhytidiadelphus loreus} and {\it Hypericum humifusum}.

The narrow northern end of the site has substantial {\it Acer pseudplatanus} amongst {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with understorey trees such as {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Corylus avellana}. {\it Pteridium aquilinum} is present in many parts and often dominant. Other small areas have {\it Betula} as the dominant tree.

Some veteran beech pollards exist close to the main ride that passes NW to SE through the site and represents earlier wood pasture management.

Records exist for {\it Epipactis purpurata} (along northern boundary) and, for the Ashridge SSSI as a whole, {\it Melampyrum pratense, Ophrys insectifera, Monotropa hypopitys}.

MANAGE:
The woodland is managed to encourage a mixed woodland of varied age and structure. Some large old {\it Fagus sylvatica} pollards exist and will provide important habitat for invertebrates.

The dry heath/acid grassland patches are being conserved and enhanced where possible.  {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Betula} sp. invasion could be more controlled.
  
The paths and rides are kept open by frequent use. Some cycling takes place despite signs and lack of bridleways. Whether this causes any damage is debatable.Provision of a cycle route through the wider area might obviate conflicting recreational uses.

The National Trust uses the whole SSSI as an educational reserve for school students.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Pheasants, Wood pigeon, Blue tit, Great tit. Also Grey Squirrel.

Recorded: Fox, Pygmy shrew, Muntjac, Rabbit. Great spotted woodpecker, Treecreeper.

VEG:
The northern section of the common has a {\it Quercus robur} dominated wood with some {\it Fagus sylvatica} with an understorey of {\it Ilex aquifolium, Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Sambucus nigra}. Two areas are more open with dominant {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and invading {\it Prunus avium} and {\it Betula pendula}. Patches of {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} were evident at the time of survey.

Proceeding along the bridleway in a NW direction an old specimen of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and an old pollarded {\it Fagus sylvatica} can be found by the path as can an old dried-up pond. An area of recently planted broadleaf trees (see map) includes {\it Quercus robur, Sorbus aucuparia}. Further NW an area of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} has a ground flora of {\it Rubus fruticosus, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Oxalis acetosella, Glechoma hederacea}. Near the northernmost point an area of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} has been planted with {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.

The eastern side of the northern section has much {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fagus sylvatica} with several big specimens. There is much deadwood.

By the metalled road leading from the school to the Rising Sun PH is some {\it Ulex} sp. and {\it Prunus laurocerasus} with also a large specimen of {\it Aesculus hippocastanum}. An old dewpond is found in the the middle of this northern section.
 
The southern section of the common slopes down to the NE. The upper slopes have a mixed wood that includes {\it Fagus sylvatica, Fraxinus excelsior, Larix decidua} and {\it Pinus} sp. By the path leading downslope the ground flora includes {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Rubus fruticosus, Pteridium aquilinum, Mercuralis perennis, Arum maculatum}. Under power lines downslope, trees have been felled and {\it Urtica dioica} with {\it Mercuralis perennis} are much in evidence. The lower slopes have a plantation of {\it Larix decidua} with much thinning and felling in evidence. By the track that leads south to Little Hampden Farm can be found a small plantation of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and also mixed conifer plantation. Pheasant breeding occurs in this area. By the path a patch of {\it Adoxa moschatellina} can found with {\it Galium odoratum}.

By the road near Little Hampden Farm lies a small area of unimproved neutral grassland that includes a bonfire site. Further towards the Rising Sun pub some tree tubes with {\it Prunus avium } and {\it Quercus robur} are found and an area of {\it Corylus avellana, Salix, Sambucus nigra}-dominated scrub. Near the pub small patches of {\it Fallopia japonica} are found.

Over 80 plant species are recorded for the site which was recorded as 'floristically-rich' in 1934

MANAGE:
The common and the wider estate has had considerable positive management in recent years culminating in the presentation of the Forest Authority's Centre of Excellence Award to the owners. The wider estate including the Common is covenanted to the National Trust.

Within living memory the common was much more open. The advent of myxamatosis may have prompted scrub invasion and woodland generation. 

The bridleway in the northern section has been diverted by all round agreement so as not to damage the footpath.

The southern section has been thinned three times for an eventual crop, the deadwood proved uneconomic to clear. The {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} has been planted for veneer. Problem with squirrels.


FAUNA:
Butterflies: Meadow Brown ({\it Maniola jurtina}), Common Blue ({\it Polyommatus icarus}) and Small tortoiseshell ({\it Aglais urticae}) butterflies seen in the main part of the Common NW of Brill. Recorded: Ringlet (Aphantopus hyperantus), Marbled White (Melanargia galathea).

VEG:
There are numerous pits, hillocks and hollows in the land to the north west of Brill, and around Brill Windmill (SP 652141), created by clay exraction for brick and tile manufacture. Most of this area is now covered with poor semi-improved neutral grassland, with scattered scrub. It is used for informal recreation, and subject to sheep grazing (see management section below). The most abundant  grass  species are {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Cynosurus cristatus}. Towards the east of Norcotts Kiln Cottages  (SP654143), the grass becomes increasingly rank, and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Dactylis glomerata} predominate. Other species recorded include locally  abundant {\it Bellis perennis, Potentilla anserina, Lolium  perenne, Poa} spp., {\it Holcus lanatus}, and {\it Alopecurs  pratensis}, plus locally frequent {\it Bromus sterilis,  Cirsium arvense, Potentilla reptans} and {\it Lotus corniculatus}.

Some of the steeper slopes of the hollows support patches of more species diverse grassland, with abundant {\it Hieracium pilosella} and {\it Luzula} sp., and frequent {\it Galium verum, Veronica  chamaedrys} and {\it Medicago lupulina}. They are too small to map seperately. The scattered scrub is a mixture of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra, Rosa} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg.      

Between Commoners (SP655146) and the crossroads to the north, there is a mixture of rank grassland and tall herb  vegetation ({\it Epilobium hirsutum, Urtica dioica},  occasional {\it Conium maculatum}), fringed with patches of {\it Salix} sp., {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra  and Rubus fruticosus} agg. scrub along the boundaries, with occasional {\it Salix fragilis} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees. 

The rest of the common is linear in nature, being situated along roadside verges and tracks. One the more interesting sections of verge is located between the junction at SP657149 and gridline 650. The verge is 5-8m wide, and there is a similar range of grass  species to the areas described above, but the ground is wet and also supports frequent {\it Juncus inflexus, Pulicaria dysenterica, Carex hirta,  Deschampsia cespitosa, Leucanthemum vulgare, Centaurea nigra, Vicia cracca} and {\it Lathyrus pratensis}, plus occasional {\it Carex otrubae, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Angelica sylvestris}.      
 
Along Span Green, from Touchbridge (SP643141) to the road at SP635132 and back to the the junction just south of  Nashway  Farm (SP649131), there are dense (mostly untrimmed) hedgerows (up to 5m high and wide) and (along Span Green) scrub, with juvenile and mature trees. The scrub and hedgerows are mostly composed of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa}, with locally abundant {\it Salix} spp., {\it Corylus  avellana} (some  coppiced, not recently), {\it Sambucus nigra, Ulmus procera, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Clematis vitalba}. The trees  are  mostly {\it Fraxinus excelsior} (some  old  coppice) and  {\it Quercus robur} with frequent {\it Acer campestre, A. pseudoplatanus} and {\it Salix fragilis}, plus occasional  Pinus sp., {\it Fagus sylvatica, Populus tremula} and {\it Aesculus hippocastaneum}. Ground flora species recorded include locally abundant {\it Mercuralis perennis} and {\it Geranium robertianum}, with  locally frequent {\it Anemone nemorosa, Glechoma hederacea, Galium aparine} and {\it Silene dioica}, plus occasional  {\it Valeriana dioica}. Public footpaths run along the whole length of this part of the common.     

Recorded from Brill village end of the common - {\it Carex flacca, Pilosella officinarium, Rumex acetosella, Galium verum, Deschampsia cespitosa, Rhinanthus minor}.

MANAGE:
Sheep  have  access to the main part of the common to the NW of Brill, however the area around the Windmill and South Hills appears to be the most  frequently  grazed. Some  sections  of hedgerow are subject to regular trimming. 

The local pottery industry dates back to the 13th century, and the remains of brick kilns have been found on the common. The industry continued up to the 19th century. The main area of the common is now managed by Buckinghamshire  County Council's Countryside Management Service.


FAUNA:
Birds:  56 bird species breed regularly. Of particular note are Hawfinch, Greater-spotted woodpecker, Lesser-spotted woodpecker, Woodcock, Tawny owl, Sparrowhawk. Past records include Nightingale and nightjar. On ponds: Mandarin duck Coot, Mallard, Moorhen.

Mammals: Dormouse, muntjac, grey squirrel, rabbit, fox, several bat species.

Reptiles: Common lizard, adder.

Amphibians: Common toad, Palmate newt, Common newt.

Coleoptera: Over 1000 species of Beetle 22 of which are Red Data Book species.

Arachnidae: 70 species noted in 1989. {\it Theridion pinastri} and {\it Centromerus aequalis} are Red Data book species. {\it Gibbaranea bituberculata} only verified from this site in UK	(Red Data Book 3 p187).

Diptera: 121 species recorded, including 35 Red Data Book species.

Lepidoptera:{\it Boloria euphrosyne} (Pearl-bordered fritillary), {\it Drepana cultraria, Noctua orbona, Parascottia fuliginaria}.

Odonata: {\it Sympetrum sanguineum} (Ruddy Darter), {\it Sympetrum striolatum} (Common Darter), {\it Libellula quadrimaculata, Cordulia aenea, Anax imperator} (Emperor Dragonfly), {\it Aeshna cyanea} (Southern Hawker) {\it Aeshna grandis} (Brown Hawker), {\it Ceriagrion tenellum, Corduleagaster boltoni, Somtochlora metallica, Sympetrum danae}.

Two rare woodland slugs: {\it Limax tenellus} and {\it Limex cinereoniger}. Extensive wood ant ({\it Formica rufa}) colonies throughout.

VEG:
The area is largely beechwood on well drained acid soils. The site is internationally famous for the 540 or so ancient {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Quercus robur} pollards which remain from the wood pasture management of 200 years ago. The availability of coal at the turn of the 18th. century and other factors brought this system to an end and a thriving secondary growth of {\it Fagus sylvatica, Quercus robur} and coppiced {\it Corylus avellana} has developed. {\it Alnus glutinosa} grows in one of the wetter areas. {\it Pinus sylvestris}  and {\it Betula} sp. have invaded former heathland areas. There are two areas of acid grassland.

The ground flora under beech is poor but the area as a whole supports over 425 higher plants, 96 species of bryophytes and 96 species of lichens that are so far recorded.

Upper and Middle ponds are on the same watercourse and were impounded about 300 years ago. They contain {\it Iris pseudocorus, Menyanthes trifoliata, Nuphar lutea, Nymphea alba, Juncus effusus, Typha latifolia, Potamogeton polygonifolius, Utricularia} sp, {\it Equisetum fluviatile, Alnus glutinosa}. Swilly pond (at the southern extreme of the Common) is a seasonal pond and had no standing water at the time of survey but contained {\it Glyceria fluitans, Typha latifolia} and {\it Salix} sp. 

Heathland: In earlier times quite a high proportion of the Common was wet or dry heathland. This was mostly in the southern half and a heathland restoration project is underway in this area. The drier areas contain {\it Calluna vulgaris, Juniperus communis, Sarothamnus scoparius, Ulex europaeus, Deschampsia flexuosa, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile} whilst the wetter, valley bog areas contain {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix, Erica cinerea, Sphagnum cuspidatum, S. tenellum, S. squarrosum, S. flexuosum, Juncus effusus, Molinia caerulea, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Polytrichum commune, Carex panicea, Viola palustris} and some invading {\it Rhododendron ponticum}.

The area known as Hardicanute's Moat to the NW has dry heath with {\it Calluna vulgaris} over a wide area as does the area to the south known as Crabtree Heath. Other small patches of {\it Calluna vulgaris} exist, for example, on Hawthorn Lane near the junction with E Burnham Lane and in the north-east corner of the Common in and around an old hollow (pond?).

East Burnham Common and Pumpkin Hill Common consist of acid grassland surrounded by woodland and containing some isolated trees. The grassland includes {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Dactylis glomerata, Galium saxatile, Sarothamnus scoparius, Luzula campestris, Agrostis} sp, {\it Melampyrum pratense} with scattered {\it Betula pendula, Quercus robur, Taxus baccata} or {\it Pinus sylvestris}.

The boundaries of commons are often demarcated by low earthen banks some of which survive at Burnham Beeches, for example running parallel with Stewarts Drive. These can be good bryophyte habitat e.g. {\it Mnium Hornum}. 

{\it Rhododendron ponticum} has become firmly established near the junction of Duke's Drive and Halse Drive and also around the Moat.

The ancient {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fagus sylvatica} pollards are broadly to the north, centre and south west of the site with secondary woodland developing throughout the rest of the area that is not covered by habitats mentioned above. This secondary growth is mostly beech dominated  (NVC W15 {\it Fagus sylvatica - Deschampsia flexuosa} woodland) but in some areas {\it Quercus robur} prevails. The {\it Fagus sylvatica} is sometimes exclusive of all other trees such as the undulating area between Juniper Grove and Seven Ways Plain. The understorey layer includes {\it Ilex aquifolium, Corylus avellana} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}. Two rarities exist, {\it Sorbus torminalis} (Wild Service Tree) and {\it Sorbus x thuringiaca}. The ground flora of the woodland is limited by the acid soils though some plants of interest exist in the area such as {\it Epipactis helleborine, Physospermum cornubiense} (just off site). {\it Damasonium alisma} was last recorded in 1971.

There is abundant fallen and standing dead wood.

MANAGE:
The past management of the site centred on wood pasture with pollarding and open heathland.

The lapse in this management for over 200 years has lead to secondary woodland growth and succession to woodland on much of the heathland. The current management objectives are centred on the restoration of the woodpasture and heathland and providing recreational areas and information for the public that use the Common. Research and environmental monitoring is also carried out.

The ancient oaks and beeches are being pollarded again with some secondary (shading) wood cut down around them. Some of the most spectacular historic trees are left uncut for aesthetic reasons. The thinning of secondary woodland also encourages the ground flora. Grazing under woodland is being reintroduced over a 15 acre area using 2 Berkshire pigs, 2 Exmoor ponies and 2 British White cows. The same animals help prevent tree growth in some heathland restoration areas.

Environmental monitoring of the Pollards, Invertebrates, Bat population, Butterflies, Veteran trees, Effects of dust pollution on lichens, Water table, Bird populations and road traffic levels is taking place. Much research has been done at the site. Recent examples include a study of the forage patterns of wood ants and invertebrate surveys pertaining to the management of the ponds.

Some rhododendron clearance has been undertaken by BTCV.

There are two scheduled ancient monuments that have been the subject of archaeological research.


FAUNA:
Birds: During survey: Great Tit, Blue Tit, Chiffchaff, Wood pigeon.

VEG:
The woodland/scrub section has a canopy of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with an understorey of {\it Salix} sp.,{\it Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra}. The ground flora, at the time of survey, {\it Urtica dioica, Galium aparine, Anthriscus sylvestris, Rumex} sp.,{\it Molinia caerulea, Clematis vitalba, Lonicera periclymenum}.

The small patch of grassland to the east of CL1 has {\it Primula veris, Rumex crispus, Verbascum} sp.,{\it Taraxacorum} sp.,{\it Chamerion angustifolium, Lamium album, Ranunculus ficaria}. Two planted {\it Viburnum lantana}.

MANAGE:
The small area of grassland should be maintained
as open ground to preserve the flora that includes {\it Primula veris}


FAUNA:
Birds: Seen during survey: Wren, Collared Dove, Crow, Magpie, Great-spotted woodpecker, Chiffchaff, Blue tit. Recorded: Blackcap, Tree creeper, Nuthatch.
		
Butterflies: {\it Thymelicus sylvestris} (Small Skipper), {\it Apatura iris} (Purple Emperor).

Moths: {\it Abraxas sylvata} (Clouded magpie).

Hemiptera: {\it Miris striatus}.

Coleoptera: {\it Carabus violaceus}.

Mammals: Hedgehog, Muntjac, Grey squirrel, Woodmouse, Deer.

British Wildlife Vol 5 No6 (8/94) refers to Booker Common as of 'national importance for specialist deadwood beetle fauna' K. Alexander Nat. Trust.

VEG:
Booker Common is largely Beech forest. Most of the wood is W12 ({\it Fagus sylvatica-Mercuralis perennis} woodland) but has W14 ({\it Fagus-Rubus fruticosus} woodland) on the more acid higher slopes.

Entering the Common from the Northern end one finds High Beechwood with an understorey of {\it Salix} sp., {\it Ilex aquifolium, Corylus avellana}. The Ground flora includes {\it Rubus fruticosus, Chamerion angustifolium, Arum maculatum, Viola riviniana, Euphorbia amygdaloides}. A large area has fallen and/or been cleared rapid regrowth evident. Large rootplates create differing habitats. Further up the slope  to the Eastern side of the Common the wood becomes more mixed, with {\it Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Fagus sylvatica, Corylus avellana} and a ground flora including {\it Ranunculus ficaria, Galium odoratum, Carex sylvatica, Hedera helix, Potentilla sterilis}.
Near the North-East corner and along the path heading south some planted trees include {\it Viburnum lantana, Carpinus betulus, Taxus baccata, Sorbus aria, Prunus avium}.

Other tree species include: {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Acer campestre, Crataegus monogyna, Viburnum lantana, Viburnum opulus, Sambucus nigra, Cornus sanguinea}.

The central part of the Common has high {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Prunus} sp. trees with much dead wood. Some parts have been opened up to promote age diversity in the tree stands and encourage ground flora which is limited under {\it Fagus sylvatica}.

The section to the West of the road that bisects Booker Common is also {\it Fagus sylvatica - Quercus robur} wood with some large/veteran {\it Fagus sylvatica} trees near the small section of CL117 to the South. The wetter areas attract a 'patchy' ground flora with {\it Mercuralis perennis} and {\it Ribes uva-crispa}.

Over 120 plant species have been recorded from Booker Common including {\it Epipactis helleborine, Neottia nidus-avis, Cardamine bulbifera, Epipactis purpurata, Cephalanthera damasonium, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Luzula pilosa, Ranunculus auricomus, Torilis japonica. Pyrola minor} was last recorded in 1978.

MANAGE:
The Common is very actively managed and the focus of much wildlife interest. Some onsite explanation to the public about the wildlife interest and the purpose of management might inform and involve some of residents who use the wood but,(from informal discussions with the present surveyor) were not aware of its current or potential value.


VEG:
The grassland (30 to 40cm high at the time of survey) is a mixture of {\it Lolium perenne, Holcus lanatus, Dactylis glomerata, Bromus hordeaceus, Arrhenatherum  elatius} and {\it Poa} spp. There is  abundant {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Trifolium  repens} and {\it Medicago} sp., with locally frequent {\it Ranunculus repens, Vicia} sp. and {\it Geranium dissectum}.

Along the southern and eastern boundaries, there are mature {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominated hedgerows (height 3  to  5m). Groundflora species include locally abundant {\it Galium aparine} and {\it Glechoma hederacea}, with locally frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Veronica montana} and {\it Stachys sylvatica}, plus occasional {\it Geum urbanum}. A narrow ditch runs along the S. boundary hedge; it  contains  frequent {\it Scrophularia aquatica} and {\it Apium  nodiflorum}, plus occasional {\it Filipendula ulmaria}. The western boundary hedge is trimmed (height 1.5m) and also  dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna}.

MANAGE:
The grassland appears to be managed for hay production. It may have been re-seeded in the last 10 years. It has the potential to develop a greater floral diversity if management practices such as fertilizer and herbicide application are avoided.


VEG:
The allotment gardens are mostly bounded by discontinuous mature {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominated hedgerows (height up to 3m) with occasional {\it Prunus spinosa}. Around the sheds at the S end of the site there are patches of rank {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} dominated grassland, with stands of {\it Urtica dioica} and occasional {\it Rumex obtusifolius}.


VEG:
The common is mostly bounded by trimmed hedgerows ({\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra}) with mature trees ({\it Fraxinus  excelsior} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}). Under the  hedgerows, there is a ground flora of locally frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Lamium album, Urtica dioica, Ranunculus repens, Galium aparine, Bromus sterilis} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}.    

On the amenity grassland, there are a few {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Tilia} sp., {\it Sorbus} sp. and {\it Prunus} sp. trees, also 1 {\it Aesculus hippocastanum}.

MANAGE:
Managed as amenity grassland and allotment gardens.


FAUNA:
Birds: Robin, Chiffchaff.

The BBONT survey (May 1987) recorded breeding Great Crested Newts in one of the ponds.

VEG:
The woodland is dominated by old coppiced {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Betula pendula}, with mature standard {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fagus sylvatica} (south half) and occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. There is an understorey of scattered, tall (up to 8m) {\it Crataegus monogyna} with  occasional {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Lonicera  periclymenum}. The most abundant ground flora species are {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Rubus fruticosus}  agg. There is also locally frequent {\it Anenome nemorosa,  Aegopodium podagraria, Glechoma hederacea, Viola} sp., {\it Stellaria alsine, Geranium robertianum} and {\it Mnium hornum}, plus occasional {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Poa nemoralis} and {\it Digitalis purpurea}. A small area of {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominated scrub is situated on the northern edge of the wood.    

The northern most pond site did not contain any water at the time of survey. There was a carpet of {\it Callitriche} sp. on the wet mud (with 1 {\it Nuphar lutea} plant) fringed with occasional clumps of {\it Iris pseudacorus, Juncus effusus}, and a few {\it Salix} spp. bushes. The southern pond site is similar (but no {\it Nuphar lutea}).    

The poor semi-improved grassland (uncut at time of survey) is a mixture of {\it Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Arrhenatherum elatius, Poa} spp. and {\it Lolium perenne}. There are a few scattered patches (too small to map) of more acidic grassland dominated by {\it Festuca} sp. with abundant {\it Galium saxatile}. There is a small area of tall herb vegetation ({\it Urtica dioica, Cirsium} sp., {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}) at the NW corner of the common.

MANAGE:
There is no evidence of regular livestock grazing. The grassland is probably mown occasionally. No other ongoing management apparent.


FAUNA:
Birds: Jackdaw, Wood pigeon, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Chaffinch, Robin, Great-spotted Woodpecker, Wren, Jackdaw.

Mammals: Muntjac, Rabbit, Grey Squirrel.

Butterflies: Gatekeeper.

Arachnida: Red Data Book 3 (1991) records {\it Centromerus aequalis} and {\it Centromerus cavernum} for 'Hampden' in deep beech litter. May not be on Common land.

VEG:
The Common is now largely broad-leaved semi-natural woodland with patches of acid grassland that has been invaded by {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. Towards the northern end the woodland becomes a mixture of conifer and broadleaf with a small area of pure conifer.

The Common is in three long sections divided by minor roads and lies in a roughly NW to SE line.

The southernmost section is a fairly open wood with {\it Quercus robur, Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Prunus avium, Betula pendula} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia. Pteridium aquilinum} exists throughout and is dominant in many areas. Trees and scrub have been cleared under power lines. A pollarded {\it Quercus} can be found (point X on map). Some small areas exist of acid grassland with {\it Galium saxatile}, and {\it Rhytidiadelphus} sp.

The middle section of the Common is largely {\it Quercus robur} (some coppiced), some {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Prunus avium} with an understorey of {\it Salix} sp., {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna}. The ground flora, at the time of survey was substantially {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus, Lonicera periclymenum}. An area of {\it Fagus sylvatica} with an adjacent small area of acid grassland (with {\it Ulex europaeus, Galium saxatile, Luzula campestris} and {\it Juncus} sp.) can be found about 300m from the southern end of this section.

The pond near the centre of this section is fairly open with {\it Prunus avium} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} providing some shade. There is open water at the centre with {\it Juncus effusus, Carex rostrata, Glyceria fluitans, Iris pseudocorus, Mentha aquatica, Juncus bufonius, Alisma plantago-aquatica} around the edges.
Nearer the road a patch of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} is established. Almost as far as the cricket pitch an old {\it Quercus robur} tree has fallen with its epiphytic {\it Sambucus nigra}.

Beyond the cricket pitch the wood becomes more of a {\it Quercus robur-Betula} sp.- {\it Sorbus aucuparia} mixture with widespread {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

The Western edge of the Common is marked by old banks with a good bryophyte growth in places especially of {\it Mnium hornum}.

The northernmost section of this Common is bisected by a road. The southern part is a variable wood with an area of quite old {\it Quercus robur} with an understorey of {\it Ilex aquifolium}. Other parts have {\it Quercus-Betula-Fraxinus} trees with an understorey of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium, Sambucus nigra, Acer pseudoplatanus, Prunus spinosa and a ground flora of Urtica dioica, Arum maculatum, Ribes nigrum, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Viola riviniana} and in damper ground {\it Molinia caerulea}. A shaded moribund pond lies  towards the centre of this section with a large patch of {\it Allium ursinum} with {\it Allaria petiolata}. A large patch of {\it Vinca major} adjoins the road.The mixed conifer (Cypress) and broadleaf area continues to the end of the Common.

The Common on the other side of the road contains a patch of pure {\it Picea sitchensis} at the northern end, mixed broadleaf and conifer woodland to the southern end with roadside grass and isolated planted trees in between.

Over 50 species are recorded for the Common.

MANAGE:
The acid grassland areas could be enhanced by the control of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scrub encroachment. The ponds need attention to prevent overshading and silting up. The pollarding of {\it Quercus robur} could be continued and old tree specimens conserved.


VEG:
The grassland is dominated by {\it Lolium perenne} with frequent {\it Poa} spp. The hedgerows are dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna}, with occasional {\it Ulmus} sp. and {\it Sambucus nigra}. Around the edged of the field, there are stands of {\it Urtica dioica}, with occasional {\it Hordeum} sp.

MANAGE:
Managed as improved grassland probably used for cattle grazing.


FAUNA:
Numerous grasshoppers ({\it Chorthippus}  sp.). Meadow  brown ({\it Maniola jurtina}),  Small tortoiseshell ({\it Aglais  urticae})  and  Red admiral ({\it Vanessa  atalanta})  butterflies seen. Large white ({\it Pieris brassicae}), Small white ({\it P. rapae}) and  Large skipper ({\it Ochlodes  venata}) were recorded in the 1985 BBONT survey.

Birds: Blackbird, House sparrow, Chiffchaff.

VEG:
The most species diverse areas of calcareous grassland are on the upper parts of the south and east facing slopes. These consist of abundant {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Cynosurus cristatus, Holcus lanatus, Poa} spp., {\it Galium verum}, and {\it Hypochaeris} spp.,  with frequent {\it Briza media, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Helianthemum chamaecistus, Sanguisorba officinalis,   Rhinanthus minor, Centaurea nigra, Campanula rotundifolia,  Silene vulgaris, Daucus carota, Pastinacea sativa, Achillea millefolium} and {\it Odontites verna} (along  footpaths),  plus occasional {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Origanum vulgare, Clematis vitalba} and {\it Tragopogon  pratensis}.  On  the  east facing slope, there are occasional, scattered young  {\it Cornus sanguinea} bushes (<0.8m high). {\it Anacamptis pyramidalis} has also been recorded in this area. The grassland was uncut at the time of survey; sward height was in the range 20-40cm. The lower parts of the slopes are generally poorer in species, and contain frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Phleum pratense} (sward height 30-60cm).      

The wooded areas contain {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Fagus sylvatica, Taxus baccata} and {\it Quercus  robur}, with occasional {\it Sorbus aria} and {\it Acer campestre}. Regeneration is good - there are frequent young saplings, including {\it Taxus baccata}. Some {\it Taxus baccata} trees on the lower part  of  the eastern boundary and in the churchyard (which is not included in the common) are obviously very old. There is an  understorey of locally frequent {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Cornus sanguinea,  Bryonia  dioica} and {\it Clematis vitalba}, plus  occasional {\it Ligustrum vulgare} and {\it Euonymus  europaeus}. Ground flora species recorded include locally  abundant {\it Galium odoratum, Mercurialis perennis} and  {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum}, with locally frequent {\it Geum urbanum, Geranium robertianum, Hedera helix, Glechoma  hederacea} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., plus  occasional {\it Carex sylvatica, Sanicula europaea, Veronica montana} and {\it Agrimonia eupatoria}.

MANAGE:
The common is no longer grazed by livestock, but is still used as a source of firewood by the commoners. Temporary fencing (now removed) was erected in the late 1970's on the S facing slope to control visitor pressure (which was creating areas of bare earth) and allow the grassland to re-establish. Planting of Beech (Fagus sylvatica) took place in the 19th. century to supply the furniture industry in the High Wycombe area.


VEG:
The allotments are surrounded by a hedge of {\it Crataegus monogyna} (up to 4 metres high) and Ilex aquifolium with some tall {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.

The uncultivated allotments soon acquire {\it Urtica dioica, Sambus nigra, Anthriscus sylvestris, Rumex acetosa, Lamium purpureum, Taraxacum} spp. and {\it Galium aparine}. Grasses include {\it Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenantherum elatius, Poa annua, Lolium perenne}.

MANAGE:
Reduction in the use fertilizers and pesticides may help species diversity.

Unused allotments are mown to keep down weeds.
A car park area has been created for use of allotment users and local cricketers.


VEG:
The scattered trees (ht:4-10m) are {\it Aesculus hippocastanum, Malus} sp., {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Prunus} sp. and {\it Quercus robur}. A ditch crosses the eastern section from the road, it contains occasional {\it Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Stachys palustris}; an unmown strip 2-3m wide on each side supports {\it Arrhenatherum  elatius, Alopecurus pratensis} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}, with frequent {\it Rumex obtusifolius} and {\it Silene dioica}.


FAUNA:
Several Meadow Brown ({\it Maniola jurtina}) and Small tortoiseshell ({\it Aglais urticae}) butterflies seen.

VEG:
The grassland consists mainly of {\it Festuca rubra, Agrostis stolonifera}, and {\it Holcus lanatus} in varying proportions (no one species appears to be dominant), with locally abundant {\it Bromus hordeaceus, Galium verum} and {\it G. saxatile}, plus locally frequent {\it Lolium  perenne, Poa} spp., {\it Lathyrus pratensis, Ranunculus  repens} and {\it Centaurea nigra}, also occasional {\it Linaria purpurea, Pimpinella saxifraga, Geranium dissectum,  G. molle, Hypericum perforatum, Vicia hirsuta} and {\it Vicia cracca}. In the southern half, there are scattered {\it Ulex europaeus} bushes. 

The grassland is surrounded by an overgrown hedge and scrub, (upto 6m high) consisting of {\it Ulmus} sp., {\it Betula} spp., {\it Crataegus mongyna, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Ulex europaeus}.  It is fringed with occasional stands of {\it Urtica dioica}.  In the northern half of the common, there are small stands  of mature standard {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Quercus robur}, with an understorey of {\it Crataegus monogyna}. Ground flora species include abundant {\it Hedera helix}  and {\it Glechoma hederacea}, with locally frequent {\it Poa nemoralis} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum}, and occasional {\it Arum maculatum}.

MANAGE:
Appears to be ungrazed. Scrub would be expected to gradually spread from the edges of the common in the absence of grazing or grass cutting.


FAUNA:
Birds:  Great-spotted Woodpecker, Blue Tit, Chiffchaff, Great Tit, Wood Pigeon, Mallard, Coot, Moorhen.

Butterflies: {\it Quercusia quercus} (Purple Hairstreak)

VEG:
The woodland is mostly {\it Betula pubescens-Quercus robur} woodland with some exclusively {\it Betula pubescens areas}.

The Common is in 2 sections divided by Dorney Wood road. The western section slopes down to a stream which marks the western boundary. This section has more varied tree species with {\it Fagus sylvatica, Tilia europaea} and {\it Pinus sylvestris}.

A few patches of {\it Rhododendron ponticum} and another alien (Himalayan Knotweed?) have taken hold.

The larger eastern section of the Common has many heathland species including {\it Calluna vulgaris, Carex pilulifera, Melampyrum pratense, Molinia caerulea, Teucrium scorodonium. Sphagnum recurvum} and {\it S. palustre} are found and also {\it Scutellaria minor. Sarothamnus scoparius} is found in a couple of locations,for example at the southernmost point near 'The Beech Tree' public house. {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} is widespread.

The main pond supports {\it Carex vesicaria, Hypericum elodes} and {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Typha latifolia,  Glyceria maxima, Juncus effusus} and {\it Salix} sp. The smaller pond was almost dry at time of survey and contains {\it Agrostis stolonifera}.

The main pond has been the site for {\it Damasonium alisma} and {\it Pulicaria vulgaris}.

MANAGE:
The elimination of grazing has changed the character of this Common fundamentally and allowed the natural succession to proceed. Land drainage and groundwater abstraction has also damaged the ponds. The heathland species survive where not overwhelmed by trees. Some cutting back or thinning of trees around the {\it Calluna vulgaris} patches could be done.One of the largest {\it Calluna vulgaris} areas is under power lines under which scrub trees have been coppiced. {\it Rhododendron ponticum} needs to be removed before it gets too widespread.

There is a local reluntance to clear any scrub or woodland is case 'travellers' take up residence.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Chaffinch, Magpie, Crow.

2 Horses.

VEG:
Access was not possible to grazed areas. The allotments supported ruderal species such as {\it Urtica dioica, Digitalis purpurea, Lamium purpureum} on unused plots. The whole area is hedged with {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Ilex aquifolium, Fagus sylvatica} with some large {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.

MANAGE:
The allotments were mostly in use and horses grazing the paddocks on the SW side at time of survey.


VEG:
The semi-improved acid grassland is located in the southern half of the common. It is dominated by {\it Festuca} sp. with  locally abundant {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it Rumex acetosella}, plus locally frequent {\it Rumex acetosa, Hieracium} sp., {\it Hieracium pilosella, Lotus cornuculatus, Poa} sp., {\it Luzula pilosa, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Holcus lanatus}, and occasional {\it Centaurea nigra}.

MANAGE:
The semi-improved acid grassland looks as if it is mown infrequently. There was no evidence of livestock grazing.


FAUNA:
Birds:  Magpie, Blue Tit, House sparrow.

VEG:
The scrub is a mixture of {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra}, with occasional {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Humulus  lupulus}. It contains scattered {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Acer campestre} trees, and coppiced {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. The most frequent ground flora species are {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Glechoma hederacea} and  {\it Urtica dioica}, there is occasional {\it Hedera helix}  and {\it Stellaria holostea}. The scrub is fringed along the road with stands of {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Cirsium arvense}. 

The improved grassland is located in the central area of the common, almost opposite Pennstreet Farm. At the southern end of the common (SU928949), there is a pond which is partly shaded by mature {\it Quercus robur} trees on the southern side. It is fringed with dense stands (upto 4m wide) of {\it Glyceria maxima} and {\it Phalaris arundinacea var picta}, with frequent {\it Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Epilobium  hirsutum}, plus occasional {\it Salix} sp. bushes and {\it Iris pseudacorus}. The fields surrounding the common are improved pasture or arable.

MANAGE:
There is no evidence of regular livestock grazing. The small area of improved grassland looks as if it is cut for silage. Apart from the coppicing mentioned above, no other management practices are apparent.


FAUNA:
Birds: Chiffchaff, Blackbird, Garden warbler, Willow warbler, Yellowhammer, Robin, Wood pigeon, Long tailed tit, Dunnock, and Song thrush were recorded in the 1986 BBONT survey, also moles and rabbits. 

Three  Nationally  notable  (found in <100 10Km squares in the British Isles) moth species have been recorded (1971) on Turville  Heath: the Square  spot  ({\it Ectropis  consonaria}), Maple  prominent ({\it Ptilodontella cucullina}) and Brighton wainscot ({\it Oria musculosa}). There is  also a possible record of the same age for the Olive crescent ({\it Trisateles emortualis}), a Red Data Book species (found in les than 15 10Km squares).
 
(Information from Bucks. County Council Museums and Records Service).

VEG:
The woodland is dominated by {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Betula pendula}, locally frequent {\it Ulmus glabra}  and occasional {\it Carpinus betulus} and {\it Sorbus  aucuparia}. Most of the trees are under 8m in height, much of the {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} has been coppiced. There are  abundant {\it  Acer pseudoplatanus} saplings where there are gaps in the canopy and around the edges of the wood. Standing and fallen dead wood has been left in situ.  

The understorey is composed of locally dense {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa}, with frequent {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and occasional {\it Ribes} sp.                    

The most abundant ground flora species are {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. There is also locally frequent {\it Hedera helix, Glechoma hederacea, Alliaria  petiolata, Viola} sp., {\it Dryopteris dilatata, Dryopteris filix-mas, Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, plus occasional {\it Arum maculatum,  Potentilla sterilis} and {\it Veronica montana}.   

The acid grassland (SU746909) is dominated by {\it Festuca} sp., with abundant {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it Potentilla erecta}, plus locally frequent {\it Rumex acetosella, Rumex  acetosa, Veronica chamaedrys, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Dactylis glomerata} (around edges). 

Five County Rarities (found in less than 10 per cent of tetrads in the county) and one Very Rare Species (less than 1 per cent of tetrads) have  been recorded on Turville Heath. These are respectively {\it Adoxa moschatellina,   Helictotrichon pratense} (usually found in chalk or limestone grassland), {\it Bromus commutatus, Ribes nigrum,  Avena sterilis} and {\it Festuca heterophylla} (very rare).  The geological map shows that Turville Heath lies directly  Reading Beds; the soils which derive from this formation are acidic (Information from Library and Museum Service, Bucks. County Council).

MANAGE:
There is no evidence of recent coppicing.
The acid grassland is short, and probably subject to livestock grazing or cutting.


FAUNA:
Birds:  Wood pigeon, Blackbird, Blue tit, Coal Tit, Chiffchaff, Marsh Tit, Robin, Willow Tit, Wren.

Mammals: Badger, Muntjac, Grey Squirrel.

Butterflies: {\it Aglais urticea} (Small tortoiseshell), {\it Lysandra coridon} (Chalkhill Blue), {\it Maniola jurtina} (Meadow Brown), {\it Goneopteryx rhamni} (Brimstone), {\it Thymelicus flavus} (Small skipper), {\it Artogeia napi} (Green-veined White), {\it Cynthia cardui} (Painted lady).

Moths: 19 species recorded including {\it Hydrelia flammeolaria} (Small Yellow Wave), {\it Jodis lactearia} (Little Emerald), {\it Thalpophila matura} (Straw Underwing), {\it Colostygia pectinataria} (Green Carpet).

VEG:
The southern end of Pheasants Hill Common has a mixture of broadleaf woodland types. Near the access point (A) there is tall {\it Fagus sylvatica} with {\it Ilex aquifolium} understorey and very little ground flora. Further along the contouring path (C) the wood becomes a mix of {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with some {\it Corylus avellana}. Here the ground flora shows {\it Mercurialis perennis, Hedera helix, Viola riviniana, Arum maculatum}, and {\it Galium odoratum}.

Moving northwards there is coppiced {\it Corylus avellana} and some planted {it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Quercus robur}.

The steep west facing slopes contain much {\it Taxus baccata} which is often dominant (NVC W13 {\it Taxus baccata} woodland).  There are some large old {\it Fagus sylvatica} with some standing dead wood. There is substantial storm damage in a couple of areas (G) with vigorous regrowth of {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.

The species under power lines at the bottom of the slope have been cut down to protect the lines.

MANAGE:
The scrub underneath the power lines will help diversify ground flora. The paths are kept open by frequent use though some fallen timber lies across the top path.


FAUNA:
Two red admiral ({\it Vanessa atalanta}) butterflies seen.

VEG:
The strip of woodland at the W. end is dominated by {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. It merges into the hedgerow which runs the length of the common. This is dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa}, with locally frequent {\it Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Ulmus procera}, plus occasional {\it Acer campestre, Tilia} sp. and {\it Salix} sp. There are frequent coppiced {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees, with occasional {\it Quercus  robur} and {\it Salix fragilis}. The hedge is untrimmed, and up to 5m high and 6m wide.  

The verge between the hedgerow and the road supports abundant {\it Anthricsus sylvestris, Arrhenatherum elatius,  Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Poa} spp.,  with locally frequent {\it Urtica dioica, Cirsium arvense,  Artemisia vulgaris} agg., {\it Arctium} sp., {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Rumex obtusifolius, Aegopodium podagraria,  Tussilago farfara, Potentilla anserina, Symphytum x uplandicum, Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Taraxacum  officinale} agg., {\it Ranunculus repens, Equisetum arvense,  Lolium perenne} and {\it Alopecurus pratensis}, plus occasional {\it Solanum dulcamara, Armoracia rusticana,   Geranium robertianum} and {\it Coprinus comatus}. Towards  the eastern end of the common, there are some dense stands of {\it Fallopia japonica}.

MANAGE:
The verge is probably mown occasionally. Some parts of the verge (most obviously areas colonized by {\it Tussilago farfara}) have been subject to soil disturbance.


FAUNA:
Three Small Tortoiseshell butterflies ({\it Aglais urtica}) seen.

VEG:
The grassland and woodland are situated in the small area of the common SE of the farm access track (see map). The grassland is a mixture of {\it Bromus sterilis, Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Poa} spp. and {\it Holcus lanatus} with frequent {\it Ranunculus repens, Cirsium arvense, Heracleum sphondylium}, and {\it Vicia cracca}, and scattered stands of {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}. The grassland grades into the young woodland ({\it Fraxinus excelsior, Acer campestre} - no more than 6m high), which also  contains scattered {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa}. Along the access track, there is an uncultivated band (1-2m  wide)  along the field edge, which contains frequent {\it Bromus sterilis, Galeopsis tetrahit, Sherardia arvensis, Convolvulus arvensis, Lamium  album, Lamium purpureum,  Anthriscus sylvestris} and {\it Senecio vulgaris}, plus occasional {\it Latuca sativa} and {\it Geranium dissectum}.  

The SW boundary appears to run along the middle of a drainage ditch, which contains frequent {\it Alisma plantago-aquatica}. The  banks support abundant {\it Solanum dulcamara}, with occasional {\it Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Scrophularia aquatica}.
   
There is discontinuous {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra} dominated hedge along the NE and NW boundaries.

MANAGE:
Over 90 per cent of the common is used for arable crop production (broad beans at time of survey). It would be desirable to retain the small areas of semi-natural habitat in the SE corner, and the boundary hedgerows, as these provide cover for birds and small mammals.


FAUNA:
One muntjac deer seen in the south half of the wood.

VEG:
The canopy is a mixture of {\it Fagus sylvatica, Quercus robur} and {\it Castanea sativa}, with occasional {\it Malus} sp. and {\it Carpinus betulus}. Most of the trees are standards, with trunk diameters (TD) in the range 20 to 40cm at chest height. Some of the {\it Fagus sylvatica} trees  have  been  coppiced. There is also frequent {\it Betula pendula} (juvenile trees and saplings), and occasional {\it Sorbus aucuparia} (saplings, TD <5cm ACH). These species are  generally concentrated where there are gaps in the mature canopy. There are some older dead and dying {\it Betula pendula} trees, which support the Birch polypore fungus ({\it Piptoporus betulinus}).

Understorey species are also concentrated where there are gaps in the canopy - they are {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna Ilex  aquifolium}. There is also frequent {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and, along the NE edge of the wood, {\it Rhododendron ponticum}.  

Ground flora species include locally abundant {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (N. half), {\it Holcus mollis} and {\it Glechoma  hederacea}, with locally frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Urtica dioica} and {\it Mnium hornum}. There is also occasional {\it Galium saxatile, Digitalis purpurea, Juncus effusus} and {\it Dryopteris dilatata}.  

The tall herb vegetation (dense {\it Urtica dioica}) and improved grassland are located in separate enclosures in the NW quarter of the common. The {\it Urtica dioica} contains scattered {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. There are mature {\it Quercus robur} trees along the boundary with the road. In the NW corner of the common, there is a small, unenclosed triangle of rank grassland dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum  elatius}, with frequent {\it Rumex acetosa, Vicia cracca} and {\it Lathyrus pratensis}.

MANAGE:
A  few  of the older {\it Betula pendula} trees have been cut down, and the logs placed across footpaths, possibly to deter motorcylists. It would  be desirable to prevent any spread of {\it Rhododendron ponticum}, as this could in the long term affect tree regeneration. 

The  small area of improved grassland looks as if it is grazed, but no livestock were seen.


VEG:
Only the eastern half of the common (Nightingale Wood) was surveyed; the western half was viewed from Tilehouse Lane.             

The woodland is dominated by mature standard {\it Quercus  robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} (mature standards and old coppiced  trees), with frequent {\it Betula pendula, Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, plus occasional {\it Acer campestre, Populus tremula} and {\it Malus} sp. Fallen and standing dead wood has been left in situ. There is an understorey of dense (but not impenetrable) {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex  aquifolium} and {\it Corylus avellana}, with abundant {\it Lonicera periclymenum} plus locally frequent {\it Sambucus nigra, Salix} sp., {\it Prunus spinosa}. The most abundant ground flora species are {\it Mercurialis perennis, Holcus mollis} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. There is also locally frequent {\it Anenome  nemorosa, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Silene dioica, Galium odoratum, Circaea lutetiana, Lysimachia nemorum, Geranium robertianum, Veronica montana,  Galium aparine, Stachys sylvatica,  Deschampsia cespitosa, Millium effusum, Dryopteris dilatata, Dryopteris filix-mas} and {\it  Pteridium aquilinum}, plus occasional {\it Chrysosplenium  oppositifolium, Oxalis acetosella, Arum maculatum, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum}.

MANAGE:
There is no evidence of regular livestock grazing. It would be desirable to continue to leave fallen and standing dead wood in situ, as  this provides an additional habitat niche for invertebrates and fungi. An internal barbed wire fence running diagonally (NW) from the road has been erected in this part of the common.


FAUNA:
Birds: Blackbird, Song Thrush (along southern boundary)

VEG:
The abundance of each grass species varies conspicuously over the area of the field.  In the northern quarter, there are areas  where {\it Lolium perenne} is dominant (which may have been re-seeded in the last few years). In the rest  of the field, {\it Cynosurus cristatus, Bromus hordeaceus,  Alopecurus pratensis, Poa} spp., {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Holcus lanatus} are all locally dominant. The most  abundant herb species are {\it Trifolium repens} and {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. There is frequent {\it Ranunculus  repens, Ranunculus acris, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Medicago   lupulina}, plus occasional {\it Trifolium pratense, Cirsium arvense, Vicia sepium, Vicia cracca} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys}. 

A dry drainage ditch runs NE through the S. quarter of the common. It contains occasional clumps of {\it Juncus inflexus}. The  banks support stand of {\it Urtica dioica, Lamium album} and {\it Stachys sylvatica}, with frequent {\it Heracleum sphondylium}, and a line of {\it Crataegus monogyna} bushes (looks like the remnants of a hedge). 

Trimmed {\it Crataegus monogyna} hedges (with occasional {\it Rosa canina}) run along the SW and NE boundaries. The {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominated hedge (2-3m high and 3-4m wide) along the north boundary is not as frequently trimmed as the others. It contains frequent {\it Rosa} sp. and {\it Fraxinus  excelsior}, with abundant {\it Tamus communis}.

Along the south side of the stream (which appears to form the southern boundary), there is a line of mature {\it Fraxinus  excelsior} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} trees, with occasional {\it Salix  fragilis} and {\it Acer campestre}, and a shrub layer of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra}, with frequent {\it Rosa} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg.  

The fields adjacent to the common are all improved grassland or arable, except the one at the road junction (SP855280), which may be semi-improved neutral grassland.


FAUNA:
Birds: Rookery, Chaffinch, Great Tit, Woodpigeon.

Mammals: Rabbits, Badger (Dung pit found).

VEG:
The North-western end of the site (upslope) is an oak-beech woodland with an understorey of {\it Ilex aquifolium, Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Taxus baccata}. At the time of survey the ground flora was dominated by patches of {\it Mercurialis perennis} or {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} with {\it Galium odoratum, Urtica dioica, Arum maculatum} and {\it Anemone nemorosa}. There are some {\it Prunus avium} and occasional {\it Sambucus nigra}. Some trees have been felled.

Moving downslope a small area is dominated by {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Corylus avellana} with {\it Clematis vitalba} present.

Further downslope to the SE there are patches of well-developed {\it Taxus baccata} mixed with {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Fagus sylvatica}. These areas are very heavily shaded so ground flora is restricted to {\it Mercurialis perennis, Arum maculatum} and {\it Hedera helix}. Occasional {\it Ligustrum vulgare} can be found.  

The southern side of the minor road is {\it Corylus avellana} dominated with some {\it Prunus laurocerasus} and a ground flora that includes {\it Urtica dioica, Arum maculatum, Taraxacorum, Viola riviniana, Galium aparine, Hedera helix, Anthriscus sylvestris, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Potentilla sterilis}.

MANAGE:
Trees are felled from the {\it Quercus robur-Fagus sylvatica} area sporadically and this will help diversify the ground flora. Numerous gun cartridges were either spent on rabbits, pheasants (none seen) or possibly the rooks in the tall {\it Fagus sylvatica}.

The dumping that has occurred in the downslope woodland could be made more difficult if roadside barriers were installed.


FAUNA:
Numerous grasshoppers ({\it Chorthippus} sp.) also several Small tortoiseshell butterflies ({\it Aglais urticae}).

VEG:
The hedgerow on the northern side of the track is trimmed, and about 2m high and 4m wide. It is composed of {\it Crataegus mongyna, Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Ulmus procera} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. There are  mature {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees along its length. This hedge is situated 2-5m from the track, and the ground in between supports a mixture  of {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Taraxacum officinale}  agg., {\it Ranunculus repens, Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Holcus lanatus}, with  locally frequent {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium}. Towards the eastern end of the common, there is a ditch on this side of the track which contains   abundant {\it Scrophularia aquatica} with frequent {\it Epilobium hirsutum} plus occasional {\it Alopecurus geniculatus, Angelica sylvestris, Solanum dulcamara} and {\it Sphondylium} sp. Towards the eastern end of the common, there is a ditch on this side which contains abundant {\it Scrophularia aquatica} with frequent {\it Epilobium hirsutum} plus occassional {\it Alopecurus geniculatus, Angelica sylvestris, Solanum dulcamara} and {\it Juncus inflexus}.

The hedgerow on the southern side side of the track has a similar species composition, but there is also occasional {\it Rosa} sp., {\it Cornus sanguinea} and {\it Malus} sp. It is untrimmed and up to 5m high and wide. There are mature {\it Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior, Acer campestre} and {\it Salix fragilis} trees along its length. It is situated 5-10 m from the track, and the land in between supports tall herb vegetation with patches of rank grassland (same species as above). Some {\it Sorbus acuparia saplings (height less than 3m) have been planted along the track near to the eastern end of the common. Other species noted (along both sides of the track): locally frequent {\it  Cirsium arvense} and {\it Geranium robertianum} occasional {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Tussilago farfara, Artemisia vulgaris} agg., {\it Dipsacus fullonum, Arctium} sp. and {\it Leucanthemum vulgare}.

MANAGE:
No management apparent apart from hedge trimming on the north side and pollarding as mentioned above. The ditch may be cleared out occasionally.


FAUNA:
Several Small tortoiseshell ({\it Aglais urticae}) butterflies seen, also several Azure damselflies ({\it Coenagrion puella}), around the pond at SU998882.                                                  

Birds: Songthrush, Blue tit, House sparrow, Robin, Chiffchaff. 2 coots with young were seen on the pond at SU997887, also about 30 mallard.

BRC records (1966) note {\it Coenagrion puella} as being present at the pond at SU997887, also the Brown hawker ({\it Aeshna  grandis}), Downy emerald ({\it Cordulia  aenea}), Common blue damselfly ({\it Enallagma  cyathigerum}), Blue-tailed damselfly ({\it Ischnura elegans}), Large red damselfly ({\it Pyrrhosoma nymphula}) and Common darter ({\it Sympetrum striolatum}), also, Gudgeon, Perch and Pike are noted as being present in this pond.

VEG:
Broadleaved  woodland  occupies  most of the area of the common. It is dominated by {\it Quercus petraea}, with frequent {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Betula pendula},  plus occasional {\it Sorbus aucuparia} (some coppiced) and {\it Populus tremula}. Dead {\it Betula pendula} trunks are infected with the  Birch  polypore fungus  ({\it Piptoporus  betulinus})  and  Green  wood-cup  ({\it Chlorosplenium aeruginascens}). The understorey is dominated by {\it Ilex aquifolium},  with locally  frequent  {\it Crataegus  monogyna,  Prunus  spinosa}  and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}, plus occasional {\it Ulex europaeus}. The most abundant ground flora  species  are {\it Melanpyrum pratense, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Hedera helix} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (this mostly occurs near  the  edges  of the canopy). There is also locally frequent {\it Holcus mollis} and {\it Glechoma hederacea}, plus occasional {\it Poa nemoralis} and {\it Carex remota}. 

The pond at the north end of the common (SU997887) contains occasional{\it Nuphar  lutea}.  It  is  fringed  with  discontinuous  stands  of  {\it Iris pseudacorus}  (up  to  4m wide) and {\it Juncus effusus} on the south eastern side; these grade into dense stands of {\it Typha latifolia}, which  extends around the northern and western sides, where there are also occasional {\it Salix} sp. bushes. Around  the  stands  of  {\it Iris pseudacorus},  there  is frequent  {\it Mentha  aquatica,  Myosotis scorpioides, Rumex hydrolapathum} and {\it Lycopus  europaeus},  plus  occasional  {\it Menyanthes  trifoliata}  and {\it Ranunculus lingua}. 

The  pond near the A40 (SU998882) is fringed on the SW side with dense stands of {\it Phragmites australis}.  On the SE and northern  sides,  there is  a  gentle  slope  which  is  covered with {\it Agrostis stolonifera} and scattered clumps of {\it Juncus effusus},  plus  locally  abundant  {\it Crassula helmsii} and {\it Eleocharis palustris} near the waters edge. There are {\it Salix} spp. bushes around the S. and  E.  sides,  some  of  which  have  been coppiced  in  the last two years.  {\it Cyperus longus} was recorded here in the 1985 NCC survey on the SW side.  

Water  star-fruit  ({\it Damasomium alisma}) was once present at both ponds, and was recorded in 1966. Plantlife and Bucks. County Council have re-introduced it to New Pond and it was found again in 1996. The other pond is used locally as a duck pond with local resistance to other conservation measures. Its  absence  may  be  linked  to  the cessation of grazing, as it requires the bare mud conditions caused by livestock trampling.

MANAGE:
The common was once grazed, but it is now used for recreation. It would be desirable to continue leaving standing and fallen deadwood in situ, as this provides additional habitat for fungi and invertebrates.


FAUNA:
Birds:- A few common species were recorded including Sparrow, Chaffinch and Yellowhammer.

VEG:
The common is dominated by resown grasses and has had some trees planted. 
1) B4 Amenity grassland. Reseeded Lolium perenne, Holcus lanatus, Festuca rubra sward with some Dactylis glomerata, Elymus repens around the tree trunks. An unmown strip along the hedge boundaries has Rosa canina, Conium maculatum, Anthriscus sylvestris, Solanum dulcamara, Stachys sylvatica and Malva sylvestris. 
2) A3 Scattered trees. These have been planted and include Ash, Sycamore, Birch, Field maple and Hawthorn. 
3) J5 Parking area. Surfaced so has no vegetation. The boundary hedges especially to the north west and north east have tall Hawthorn, Elder, some Sycamore and Ash. Gaps have been replanted with native species.

MANAGE:
1) The grass has been mown short, and clippings appear to have been removed, which is good management. The unmown strip along the hedge has a greater species diversity, and should be retained. If left unmown altogether, the rank grasses will tend to dominate. By treating the boundaries as separate parts, and mowing them in turn on alternate years, the interest of the site will be increased, as the variation in vegetation height will be of benefit to invertebrates. 
2) The trees which have been planted are, in the main, native species, but if further replanting becomes necessary, the use of sycamore is not recommended. The boundary hedges should be maintained, as they are of value to small birds, and to invertebrates. 
3) Surfaced drive and parking area. Some rubbish has been tipped in the hedge by the parking area - putting up `No Tipping' signs should discourage this. The common has been made into a pleasant area for quiet recreation.


FAUNA:
A variety of common birds were seen including Sparrow, Chaffinch, Willow Warbler, Starling, Blackbird, Song Thrush and Wood Pigeon. Mallard and Moorhen were present on Jesus ditch.

VEG:
1) B4 The common is predominantly an open area of reseeded amenity grassland, dominated by Lolium perenne and Poa, with Bellis perennis, Plantago major abundant, indicating the pressure of heavy trampling and constant mowing. 
2) is similar, but is managed as a cricket pitch, and the grassland is mown to a very short turf. 2a) The grassland in this area has been damaged by heavy vehicles. 
3) A3 Parkland trees. Along the path, tall mature plane trees form a very attractive avenue. Elsewhere, beeches, horse chestnuts, and ornamental hawthorns are grouped or scattered. The swimming pool is screened by tall Cupressus trees. 
4) Jesus ditch forms the southern boundary. It is very stagnant, and has no aquatic vegetation. The southern bank, which appears to be outside the common, has tall ash, scrub, and coarse grasses.

MANAGE:
The common is intensively managed for both formal and informal recreation. Most of the common is gang mown, but the pitches and greens have special mowing regimes to keep them in playing condition. Leaving some vegetation to grow longer, especially by the ditch, would be of benefit to invertebrates, and need not interfere with recreation, or make the common look `untidy'. The south eastern corner would probably be the best area for this, as it is the most undisturbed part of the common. 2a) The grassland here has been damaged by heavy vehicles carrying out maintainence work, and this is only a temporary problem. 4) The ditch is very stagnant, but could be a feature of interest and of some value to wildlife if cleaner. The bankside vegetation should be maintained, as it provides cover for birds and insects. 5) A children's play area, with swings, a slide and a climbing frame.


VEG:
The common was not surveyed, as existing records show that what was originally a pasture field is now arable land. It had been surveyed by the BHWT in 1985, and was considered to be of no interest.


FAUNA:
Sparrow, Swift, Willow Warbler, Whitethroat, Blackbird and Magpie were seen during the site visit.

VEG:
The common is mostly covered in tall, coarse grasses and brambles, with the allotments boundaries still visible. 
1) Very tall ruderal community dominated by Arrhenatherum elatius, Elymus repens, Calamagrostis epigeios, Dactylis glomerata, Urtica dioica, Cirsium arvense, Rubus fruticosus, Heracleum sphondylium, Galium aparine. The abandoned plots have some cultivated plants remaining, such as redcurrent bushes. Paths and more open areas have Plantago major, Ranunculus repens and Rumex crispus. 
2) Main areas of trees - predominantly old apple trees with hazel. 
3) Area dominated by Rumex, with Urtica and coarse grasses. Scattered hawthorn, elder, blackthorn. 
4) Separated by an old fence. Abundant Epilobium hirsutum, Arrhenatherum elatius, Rumex fruticosus, with large open areas of Ranunculus repens, Equistetum arvense. Shrubs include elder, hawthorn, rose bushes and old fruit trees.

MANAGE:
The common was probably once pasture, since a right to graze sheep there was registered. However, the allotments must have been established some years ago, to be mentioned on the maps, and it is likely that they date from one of the World Wars. The allotments have now fallen into disuse; although sheds and fences are still visible, they are dilapidated, and no area is cultivated anymore. Most of the site is to be developed for housing, and is to be deregistered. The part that remains will almost certainly be developed in the future.


FAUNA:
Birds recorded include Goldfinch, Spotted Flycatcher, Linnet, Bullfinch, Sedge Warbler, Bluetit, Lesser Whitethroat, Green Woodpecker, Snipe. 
Invertebrates:- Many common species of butterfly have been recorded. 
The common has a large number of anthills present which are very scarce elsewhere in the county due to agricultural improvement.

VEG:
The common lies on chalk marl, and is, as a result, predominantly calcareous grassland. A large proportion of this has not been improved. 1) B3.1 Within the area of unimproved grassland, Festuca rubra is present, with several locally uncommon species including Astragalus danicus, Gentianella amarella, Danthonia decumbens, Potentilla erecta and Succisa pratensis. Cirsium acaule and Poterium sanguisorba are abundant. 
2) B3.2 The semi-improved areas are dominated by many grasses including Festuca arundinacea, F.rubra, with Carex flacca, C. hirta, Galium verum, Cirsium arvense, Saxifraga granulata, Orchis morio and the nationally rare Trifolium ochroleucon. 
3) B4  In the improved area Holcus lanatus, Poa pratensis, Senecio jacobea and Cirsium arvense are abundant. 
4) A2.2 The scattered scrub includes Crataegus monogyna, Rubus sp., Rosa sp., Ligustrum sp. and Rhamnus catharticus.

MANAGE:
Site currently sporadically grazed by horses, but major problem preventing effective management is fencing.  A Section 15 agreement is under consideration.  Ragwort may also be a problem due to increased grazing of the site.  Periodic ragwort pulling, and also scrub clearance are carried out by volunteers.


FAUNA:
Birds:- A detailed survey was carried out by I. Wyllie (`The bird community of an English parish') 1976. Species recorded in 1988 included House sparrow, Swallow, Wood pigeon, Song thrush, Blackbird, Swift.

VEG:
The common is an area of semi-improved grassland with scattered trees. The vegetation has been greatly influenced by past management, especially by cutting and grazing. 
1) B2.2.2 Semi-improved neutral grassland. Covers most of the common, but has been modified by different mowing regimes. 
1a) is dominated by Holcus lanatus, Festuca rubra, Anthoxanthum odoratum, with Ranunculus acris, Galium verum, Briza media, Allium vineale, Betonica officinalis 
1b), the cricket pitch is less diverse, being dominated by Lolium perenne, with F.rubra, Bellis perennis and Trifolium repens abundant. Depending on frequency of mowing, the rest of the common falls between these two levels of richness. 1a) is NVC type MG6 and 1b)is MG6 & MG76 
2) A3 Scattered trees. A mixture of large mature trees are scattered over the common, but especially concentrated around 2). Oak, Ash, Beech, Walnut, Horse chestnut are common. 
3) G2 Ditches. Fringed by Urtica dioica, Epilobium hirsutum, Alisma plantago-aquatica, Scrophularia nodosa. 
4) G1 Pond. Has a number of species including Carex otrubae, Ranunculus sceleratus, Typha latifolia.

MANAGE:
As very few rights are exercised, the management commitee has allowed the green to be used for recreation and village activities. A cricket pitch and a football pitch have been marked out, and are regularly mown and maintained. Mowings from the square are removed, but are left on the outfield, which has affected the vegetation. The football pitch is cut for hay in June/July, and mown during the season. Most other areas are cut for hay, except where inaccessable. The management seems to be ideal, and this is a good example of how an area can be well used and profitable, but retain its wildlife value.


FAUNA:
No information relating directly to the common, but adjacent fen SSSI has extensive ornithological records. Range of species using the SSSI include Sparrowhawk, Hen Harrier, Merlin, Golden Plover, Snipe, Jack Snipe, Common Sandpiper, Short-eared Owl, Wheatear, Dunlin, Greenshank, Curlew. Teal, Shoveler, Yellow Wagtail and other species occasionally breed on the SSSI. Species using the SSSI may occasionally feed on the common.

VEG:
The common is improved pasture.  Old SSSI information lists Holcus lanatus, Deschampsia caespitosa, Dactylis glomerata and Arrhenatherum elatius.  The dykes at (2) are noted as being of interest, and contain Glyceria maxima, Phalaris arundinacea, Filipendula ulmaris and Iris pseudacorus.

MANAGE:
The site is permanent pasture, and of low interest, except as potential feeding area for birds using adjacent SSSI, and as breeding area for passerines and perhaps waders.  Continuation of grazing is therefore the most suitable management.  The ditches have been cleared out and bankside vegetation cut in the past.


FAUNA:
Birds:- A number of birds were recorded during the survey including Swift, Swallow, Starling, Blackbird, Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, Black-headed Gulls, Coot, Mallard and domestic ducks. 
Mammals:- Mole.

VEG:
The common has been greatly modified. The larger western area has been reseeded in the past and is cropped for hay. The eastern area is semi-improved neutral grassland crossed by roads. 1)B22 Semi-improved neutral grassland. This area was reseeded after the war but has a mixture of species including Cynosurus cristatus, Deschampsia caespitosa, Holcus lanatus, Poa pratensis as a hay crop. 
2) Hedge along the track has hawthorn, Midland hawthorn, Blackthorn with Arrhenatherum elatius, Rosa canina, Conium maculatum. 
3) F2 Temporary pool with Carex hirta sparse over bare mud. The pool is surrounded by Glyceria maxima, Juncus inflexus, Carex riparia and coarse grasses. 
4) B22 Neutral grassland. Generally a herb-poor mixture of Hordeum ,D.caespitosa, H.lanatus, Ranunculus acris. 
5) Similar to 4) but with a higher proportion of more ruderal species including Ranunculus repens, Trifolium repens, Plantago major, Prunella vulgaris. Old drainage channels cross the area, but had no water in them at the time of the survey. 
6) A large pond with steep banks covered in coarse grasses. The pond has a number of willows forming islands, but has no true aquatic species, and the sides are too steep to allow them to establish. The pond is used by ducks which have cause puddling on the banks and have contributed to eutrophication of the water. 
7) Drainage channel, choked with vegetation including Iris pseudacorus, Glyceria maxima, Apium nodiflorum, Lemna sp. 
8) Neutral grassland, dominated by Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Lolium perenne. Areas have been mown, and these support more herbs, with Bellis perennis, Prunella vulgaris and Medicago lupulina common.

MANAGE:
The western half is cut for hay; about 40% had been cut at the time of visit. Along the northern edge, a strip had been cut, and 4 cows and calves were grazing, restrained by an electric fence. A margin along the track and railway line was uncut. The eastern area has some provision for recreation, with a surfaced and marked path along the lode. There is no overall management for this area - the vegetation has been cut outside houses, to form lawns or car parking space, and some animals are tethered. The lane to the south is used to store chippings, or park cars for the breakers yard. Suggested management would be to remove tipped material, and prevent further tipping; to ensure more even grazing or mowing of the eastern area; to plant native trees, thereby adding visual interest, and providing cover for birds and invertebrates. The pond could be a feature of interest if the banks were graded and aquatic species introduced.


FAUNA:
Birds:- A number of species were recorded during the survey including House Sparrows, Meadow Pipit, Starling, Swift, Swallow, Greenfinch, Pied Wagtail, Yellow Wagtail, Song Thrush, Snipe, Mallard. The boundary hedge is important for birds. 
Amphibians:- Frog.

VEG:
1) The common is a large area of semi-improved neutral grassland. Ranunculus acris is abundant with Holcus lanatus, Dactylis glomerata, Festuca rubra, Cirsium arvense, Potentilla reptans, Achillea millifolium, Carex hirta, Cynosurus cristatus, Hordeum secalinum, Lolium perenne, Deschampsia caespitosa. NVC equivalent is MG6 probably derived from MG5 by grazing. 
1a) B4 Improved grassland maintained as a football pitch. 
2) G111 Ditches. Support Juncus inflexus, Epilobium hirsutum, Cardamine flexuosa, Apium nodiflorum. The ditches grade into a complex of small pools with the additional species of Typha latifolia,Carex otrubae, Ranunculus sceleratus, Lycopus europaeus, Lotus uliginosus. 
4) Small pond is cattle-poached around the edge of NVC type MG13 - Oenanthe fistulosa, Glyceria declinata, Veronica beccabunga. 
5) Ponds in the western area are used by ducks and are very eutrophic. J.subnodulosus has been recorded. 
6) A damper form of 1), with more Carex hirta, Phalaris and Juncus inflexus. Snipe were seen in this area, and grazing pressure is lighter. Ononis repens occurs on drier hummocks. 
7) Boundary hedge of ash, hawthorn, elder, dogrose and bramble.

MANAGE:
Although the common is fenced across the centre, the gate, at the time of survey, had been left open, and cattle and horses were free to graze the whole common. However, grazing pressure appeared to be highest adjacent to the football ground. The current grazing levels should not be increased. Some planting of alders and willows has been carried out. The ponds and ditches are of interest, and care should be taken to minimise disturbance when necessary maintenance work is carried out. Much of the common was ploughed up during World War II, and root crops were planted. The common was resown with grass after the war.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Wren, House Sparrow, Robin, Chaffinch, Goldfinch, Linnet, Yellow Hammer, Reed Warbler, Sedge Warbler, Skylark, Starling, Song Thrush, Blackbird, Wood Pigeon, Carrion Crow were all recorded during the survey. 
Amphibians:- Tadpoles of frogs or toads were seen. 
Mammals:- Rabbit.

VEG:
The common is predominantly an area of semi-improved neutral grassland with reseeded amenity grassland, planted trees, scrub and surfaced play areas. 
1) Species-poor grassland with Lolium perenne, Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius, Festuca rubra, Agrostis stolonifera, Cynosurus cristatus, Plantago lanceolata, Trifolium repens. Ranunculus acris is abundant and ruderal species are present adjacent to paths. Cirsium arvense and C.vulgare are frequent. 
2) Intensively mown area with Festuca and Agrostis predominant. 
3) Unmown, ungrazed area, with spoil heaps supporting a ruderal community of Malva sylvestris, Silene alba, Rumex crispus, Artemisa vulgaris, Papaver rhoeas, Hordeum murinum. 4) Blocks of planted trees fenced off from grazed grassland. Oak, ash, sallow, alder, have been planted. 
5) Ditches have  Glyceria fluitans, Epilobium hirsutum, Carex riparia, C.pseudocyperus, Veronica beccabunga, Lycopus europaeus, Scrophularia aquatica, Alisma plantago-aquatica. 6) Railway line has relatively undisturbed grassland with hawthorn scrub. 
7) A small area of grassland (Type 1) cut for hay. 
8) Surfaced recreation area with swings, and a sports pitch. 
9) Ruderal community of U.dioica. NVC - 1) is MG6 with MG1; 3) & 4) are MG1.

MANAGE:
The common is managed for recreation and grazing. Grazing occurs over area 1), and 2) is mown for recreational use. The areas marked 4) have been planted up with trees, and are fenced to protect them from stock. They are sprayed to check weed growth. In the past, the common was used for tank traps, a rifle range and for fossilite mining, according to a local resident. Coldhams brook used to be 4ft deep, but has dried up and become stagnant, possibly due to works connected with the new road. This should be investigated, to see if the problem is reversible, and the brook can be restored.


FAUNA:
Birds:- A number of typical species were noted during the site visit including Wren, Bullfinch, Starling, (with 4 fledglings) Woodpigeon, Mallard, Moorhen (with 3 chicks). 
Invertebrates:- The common is of considerable interest for invertebrates. It has 2 nationally rare wood-nesting solitary wasps associated with the old pollarded willows, along with commoner wood-nesting aculeates. Several beetles of dead or over-mature timber have been recorded from the poplars -1 is nationally uncommon. The common therefore supports 2 RDB3 and 1 notable species.

VEG:
The common is an open area of rough neutral grassland with pollarded willows and groups of Lombardy poplars. 
1) B2.2.2 Semi-improved neutral grassland. Most of the common falls into this catagory. The site has been reseeded in the past and Lolium perenne, Poa Cynosyrus cristatus are all common. Ranunculus acris is very abundant and Urtica dioica is clumped. The area south of the road also has much Cirsium arvense. 
2) A3 Scattered trees. Very large pollarded willows are a feature of the site and are of great importance for invertebrates. Lombardy poplars are grouped over the common. 
3) C3.1 Tall herb and ruderal community. Dominated by Urtica dioica and generally found alongside streams and boundaries. The largest area occurs along the western boundary. 
3a) Dominated by U. dioica but with Rubus fruticosus, Anthriscus sylvestris, Scrophularia and scattered hawthorn and willow. 
3b) Dominated by dense U.dioica. 
4) Streams. Generally have Veronica beccabunga, Apium nodiflorum and Glyceria, with marginal vegetation of U.dioica and Arrhenatherum elatius. The margins are trampled by cattle. 
5) B4 Reseeded grassland.

MANAGE:
Cattle-grazed. The cattle have access to the whole site by means of a tunnel under the road. The vegetation is patchily grazed, with some very short and some tall, undisturbed vegetation. The common is sometimes cut for hay. Water levels in the main stream are controlled by a sluice. In view of the importance of the site for invertebrates, old or dead trees should not be removed. Pollarding considerably promotes the life of a tree, and careful pollarding of a few willows could be carried out to ensure that this valuable habitat is retained. The improved grassland of 5) is regularly mown, and is used as a picnic site. Lombardy poplars and hawthorns are scattered. It is fenced off from the rest of the common.


FAUNA:
Species recorded during the site visit included Wren, Linnet, Starling, Swallow, House Martin. Mallard breed on the common.

VEG:
The common is predominantly an area of semi-improved grassland with scattered trees and ditches containing aquatic flora. 
1) B222 Semi-improved neutral grassland dominated by Ranunculus acris, R.repens, Lolium perenne with Trifolium repens, Dactylis glomerata, Festuca rubra, Agrostis stolonifera, Plantago lanceolata, Senecio jacobaea. The boundary has large mainly ornamental trees including horse chestnut.  
2) Connecting strip bordering ditch. Scrub of elder, Rubus fruticosus, Salix fragilis, Urtica dioica, Potentilla erecta, Potentilla reptans, Cirsium vulgare, Heracleum sphondylium. A surfaced footpath runs through. 
3) Taller ungrazed grassland bordering ditch. Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus lanatus, Carex hirta, Urtica dioica, Potentilla anserina, Cardamine pratense are all present. 
4) Ditch contains Glyceria fluitans, Epilobium hirsutum, Lemna minor. 
5) Ditch running beneath pollarded Salix fragilis has a more varied flora with Mentha aquatica, Filipendula ulmaria, Geum urbanum, Carex riparia, Iris pseuacorus, Lycopus europaeus, schropularia aquatica, Rumex hydrolapathum, Ranunculus sceleratus. 
6) Wooded strip along river.

MANAGE:
Horse grazing appears to be mainly confined to area 1), although there is free access to the central block. The Fen Causeway divides the common into two main blocks. If grazing does not occur in the northern block, it may require mowing to prevent the vegetation from becoming rank. Mown material should be removed to prevent enrichment. The ditch running through the centre is steep-sided, and needs to be managed sympathetically to encourage marginal vegetation, besides U.dioica. The ditch 5) contains some interesting species, and should be managed to retain these. More willows should be pollarded. The southern part was used for Army huts during the war, and was subsequently reseeded.


FAUNA:
Birds:- A number of common species were noted during the site visit. These included Robin, Sparrow, Blackcap, Chaffinch, Blackbird, Songthrush and Moorhen (chick).
Mammals:- Water vole and Rabbit were seen.

VEG:
The common consists of a narrow strip of ground the northern half of which is allotment gardens. The southern part has dense scrub and open areas of neutral grassland. 
1) B4 Reseeded grassland with planted exotic trees silver birch, larches and beech. 
2) J1 Allotment gardens. Cultivated for vegetables and flowers. Tall Arrhenatherum elatius grassland is common around the boundaries and on uncultivated ground. Elder bushes are scattered. 
3) Lode. Contains Apium nodiflorum and Lemna sp. with Iris pseudacorus. The east bank is uncut and has abundant Epilobium hirsutum, Rumex obtusifolius, Scrophularia auriculata with sycamore and ash along the boundary. 
4) B2.2 Mown grass with A3 scattered trees. 
5) A2.1 Continuous scrub. A dense thicket of ash, hawthorn, willow with a ground flora of Urtica dioica and Hedera helix. 
Grades into 6) an area of very tall hawthorns casting a dense shade with Hedera helix, ferns, and c.10 plants of Listera ovata. 
7) C3.1 Tall herb community in a clearing, dominated by Epilobium hirsutum, U.dioica, Galium aparine, Cirsium arvense, Heracleum sphondylium. 8) A2.1 Scrub of dense Rubus fruticosus, hawthorn, hazel, Rosa canina, sycamore.

MANAGE:
1) is mown regularly around the trees. 2) Cultivated as allotments. Fenced off from the rest of the common. 3) The east bank of the lode is uncut, and supports a diverse tall herb flora. It should be retained, as the herbs and trees provide cover for fauna. 4) A small area of heavily mown grass. 5) The scrub provides good cover for birds, and should be maintained. 6) Is very similar. It is valuable for birds and mammals, and is crossed by footpaths. The Listera ovata should be protected from disturbance if any works become necessary in this area. 9) The ditch should be cleared of obstructions and rubbish.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Sparrows, Blackbirds, Starlings and Songthrushes were seen during the survey. Mammals:- Grey Squirrel.

VEG:
The common is an open area of reseeded grassland with some mature trees on the boundaries and two stagnant water courses to the north and east. 
1) B4. Reseeded grassland. The common is predominantly heavily mown reseeded grassland, with abundant Bellis perennis and Plantago major present. 
2) A3. Scattered trees. The common is screened from the roads that border it by lines of tall mature limes and occasional horse chestnuts. The channel forming the northern boundary has sycamores and maples. 
3) J5. Tracks. The common is crossed by a number of tracks or footpaths which have been surfaced with sand. 
4) G11. The northern boundary is a drain some 3m wide in places. It has no aquatic vegetation but the steep southern bank has uncut Elymus repens, Poa trivialis, Urtica dioic, Rumex obtusifolius, Tussilago farfara, beneath scattered Sambucus nigra and Crataegus monogyna.

MANAGE:
The common is maintained for quiet recreation. The grass is regularly mown to a short sward, the paths are well-maintained, and seats and litter bins have been provided.  The two drainage channels could be of interest if they were not so stagnant. The northern drain is of some value, as the uncut vegetation and patchy scrub provides cover and a food source for a variety of birds and invertebrates. eastern boundary is formed by a badly polluted drain which has some submerged vegetation. Sycamores and maples have been planted along the western bamk, within the common.


FAUNA:
The common is important for birds despite being rather small and isolated. Shallow pools present in spring increase the value to wildfowl - 6 species of duck have been recorded (Teal, Mallard, Tufted duck, Shoveler, Gadwall, Garganey). Lapwing, Snipe and Redshank are also present. The central area is of the greatest importance. Small birds species recorded include Yellow Wagtail and Sedge Warbler.

VEG:
The common is primarily an area of seasonally inundated neutral grassland with dense Salix scrub at the southern end. 
1) B22 Semi-improved neutral grassland. Most of the common falls into this catagory, with tussocky Arrhenatherum elatius, Deschampsia caespitosa abundant. Cirsium arvense and C.vulgare are common with Ranunculus spp. 
2) The southern part of the common is dominated by dense Salix scrub including Salix purpurea, S.viminalis, S.cinerea, S.alba. The ground flora is dominated by Urtica dioica, Epilobium hirsutum, Cirsium arvense.
3) Scattered scrub. Salix, Crataegus monogyna and small trees are scattered especially by the river. 
4) The river forms the common boundary but is probably not officially within it. Aquatic species include Lemna minor, Myosotis sp., Myriophyllum spicatum., Glechoma hederacea, Cirsium arvense, Urtica dioica, Valeriana officinalis, Epilobium hirsutum, grow on the banks.

MANAGE:
The common is managed for grazing of cattle, sheep, horses and geese. The common can only be grazed after the flood water has dispersed, but grazing during this period tends to be heavy. Cattle grazing, in particular, is advantageous as it creates a tussocky vegetation prefered by breeding ducks and waders. Management has included attempts at drainage, followed by ploughing and reseeding. Spraying with herbicides has occurred in the past. The common is presently under threat of development as a marina, and if this went ahead, it would mean that a valuable site for breeding wildfowl and waders would be lost. In the past, numbers of animals using the common were completely unregulated, with up to 100 horses and cattle on the site. A local resident maintained the boundaries and gates, collecting money from  the graziers for this purpose.


FAUNA:
The commmon supports a good variety of small birds and also some waders. Species recorded on the site visit included Sparrow, Skylark, Linnet, Goldfinch, Swift, Yellow Wagtail, Blackbird, Carrion Crow, Kestrel, Mallard (with 3 chicks), 2 Lapwings (with 2 almost mature chicks), Redshank. Mammals:- Signs of Moles were seen.

VEG:
The common is predominantly semi-improved neutral grassland crossed by channels, and with small wet depressions. 
1) B22 The majority of the common falls into this catagory, but the structure and species composition of the grassland varies considerably between the northern and southern areas. The northern area has been partly improved in the past with Lolium perenne and Trifolium repens abundant especially in heavily grazed areas. Where the vegetation has been left long for hay Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Poa trivialis and Heracleum sphondylium are abundant with Urtica dioica, Ranunculus acris and R.repens. Part of the area has been fenced off to form a small paddock and this is heavily grazed and species poor. This area has been encroached upon and greatly modified by the residents in the adjacent houses. The southern part of the common shows signs of more systematic improvement in the past, with Lolium perenne and Trifolium repens dominant over large areas, and Ranunculus repens abundant. However, the vegetation is becoming rank with coarse grasses gaining dominance, especially around stands of Ranunculus acris. For example, the area 1b) has abundant, ungrazed Arrhenatherum elatius, Cirsium arvense, C.vulgare, Ranunculus acris. Heavily grazed areas are species-poor, with Bellis perennis, C.arvense, Plantago major, Achillea millefolium, Senecio jacobaea the main herbs present. Other grasses include Holcus lanatus, Dactylis glomerata, Festuca rubra. 
2) B5s Marshy grassland. An interesting and diverse area of generally tall vegetation, dominated by Phalaris arundinacea, with Scrophularia sp. Symphytum officinale, Equisetum sp. Deschampsia caespitosa, Epilobium palustre, Potentilla palustris. This community provides a contrast to the species-poor grassland dominant over the rest of the common.
3) J5 Road. The common is crossed by a minor road leading to the village of Soham. There are also a number of tracks to the houses adjacent to the common.
4) A22 Scattered scrub. Willows are common by the lode, with a ground flora of Phalaris arundinacea. Individual bushes also occur along the minor road. Hawthorns are scattered over the grassland on the southern part of the common. 
5) C31 Tall herb community. The top of the bank by the lode has been cleared, but the sides have dense stands of Urtica dioica, Arrhenatherum elatius, Cirsium arvense, Poa trivialis, Galium aparine, Lamium album. Scrophularia aquatica and Epilobium hirsutum occur by the lode, with patches of Iris pseudacorus, Veronica beccabunga, Apium nodiflorum. Lemna sp. is present.
6) G111 Ponds and channels. The common is crossed by a number of channels, some of which are dry, at least during the summer. The ones containing water have Apium nodiflorum, Veronica beccabunga, with tall herbs on the sides, and some willow over the deeper, more permanent channels. 
6a) A series of wet depressions which have been puddled by birds. (Redshank and Lapwing were seen in this area). These are of interest as they provide a contrast to the surrounding vegetation. Species present include Veronica beccabunga, Apium nodiflorum, Oenanthe aquatica, Cardamine pratensis, Glyceria fluitans and Ranunculus repens.
7) B31 A small area of calcareous grassland, indicated by the presence of Briza media, Lotus corniculatus, Mentha sp. and Primula veris. Other species include Bellis perennis, Potentilla reptans, Carex hirta, Trifolium repens, Plantago lanceolata, with Deschampsia caespitosa, Arrhenatherum elatius and Equisetum sp. on the edges.

MANAGE:
The common is crossed by a number of tracks and footpaths, most of which are kept clear by mowing. The common is used primarily for grazing. The northern area had 2 tethered horses and 1 mare and foal in a small enclosure at the time of visit. Part of the area had been mown to allow jumps to be set up. Although the land on which the houses has been built is not registered as common, the residents have appropriated bits of the registered land for their own use, and have washing lines and parking areas set out. The owner of the horses has apparently no permission for his fences, and the buildings and paddocks are almost certainly encroachments on the common. Part of the northern area is cropped for hay; the council `sells' the right to cut hay each year to the highest bidder. The southern part has been partly reseeded in the past, but the vegetation is reverting, due to uneven grazing. At the time of the visit, 21 horses and foals and 1 donkey were present on this part of the common, although they had access to the whole area. The uneven structure of the vegetation is of benefit to ground-nesting birds, but the coarse grasses could be cut to prevent the vegetation becoming rank. The wet depressions and channels should be left undisturbed.

Some tipping has occurred by the houses in the centre of the common, and this should be discouraged. Minor encroachments have been made - `lawns' created outside the garden boundaries by mowing the vegetation, and plants set out in tubs. These are not damaging, but the situation on the northern part -where minor encroachments have become major ones- must be avoided.

The common is of value to wildlife as it is a large piece of modified but semi-natural vegetation in a residential and agricultural area. It appears that it is used by several pairs of breeding waders, and it has some interesting communities associated with wet or calcareous ground.


FAUNA:
Birds:- A variety of birds have been recorded including Blackcap, Yellowhammer, Willow Warbler, Reed Warbler, Sedge Warbler, Sandmartin, Red-legged Partridge, Snipe. 
Mammals:- Rabbit. 
Invertebrates:- Gatekeeper, Tortoiseshell, Green-veined white, Meadow brown, Peacock butterflies. 
Ishnura elegans, Enallagma cynthigerum, Sympetrum striolatum, Aeshna grandis.

VEG:
The common is a large area of neutral grassland some of which has been improved with scattered trees and scrub. 
1) B4 Meadows adjacent to the river. 1a) has been resown with Lolium perenne and is species-poor. 1b) is separated from it by a ditch and is more diverse, with a wet area dominated by Glyceria maxima and Agrostis stolonifera. NVC MG5. 
2) Reseeded area with L.perenne dominant. Thistles are spreading due to lack of grazing. NVC MG7. 
3) B2.2 Semi-improved neutral grassland. Generally rather species-poor but with remnants of a more typical flora indicating some past improvement. 3a) Wet depressions have some diversity of species. MG6. 
4) Low-lying damp grassland and a drier bank within the SSSI. 4a) has a wide variety of meadow grasses and herbs, including Filipendula ulmaria, Sanguisorba officinalis. To the east, the ground is very wet and is dominated by Carex disticha. 4b) A drier bank of herb-rich grassland, with notable species including Conopodium majus, Primula veris, Potentilla anglica, Sanguisorba officinalis, S.minor, Saxifraga granulata, Filipendula vulgaris. 
5) B22 MG6. Good variety of grasses, but herbs are infrequent. Ridge and furrow system. 
6) is more diverse, and 7) has large anthills with associated flora. Some trees have been planted. Scrub is abundant by the old line, and scattered elsewhere.

MANAGE:
Managed for grazing and hay, but grazing is uneven. 1) Grazed by cattle in summer/autumn. 2) Ungrazed, and thistles invading as a result. These should be cut, and grazing reinstated. 3) Grazed by cattle, sheep and horses. 3a) Cut for hay. 4a) Cut for hay with aftermath grazing. 4b) Controlled autumn grazing. 5) Old ridge and furrow system. Grazed by sheep and cattle. 6) As for 5). 8) Heavily grazed by cattle, leaving tussocky Deschampsia caespitosa, Juncus inflexus. Some trees planted. The old line is fenced, and the gate area very poached.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Wren, Chaffinch, Yellowhammer, Willow Warbler, Whitethroat, Skylark, Starling, Blackbird, Woodpigeon, Kestrel, Lapwing and Moorhen (with chick) seen during survey. A Turtle dove was heard.
Mammals:- Mole.

VEG:
The common is a field of semi-improved grassland, which has some scattered scrub, and a small pond and water course. 
1) Field margins. These are a closely grazed sward of Lolium perenne and Trifloium repens, with Plantago major, Cynosurus cristatus, Holcus lanatus, Potentilla reptans, Prunella vulgaris and Bellis perennis common. The ground around the gate and trough is poached. 
2) G12. A small pond. Surrounded by tall hawthorns, Rosa canina with Eriophorum hirsutum, Rumex hydrolapathum, Solanum dulcamara, Carex riparia some Urtica dioica. 
3) Damp poached area by the pond. Veronica scutellata, Ranunulus sceleratus are common. This area merges with a shallow drainage ditch which has virtually dried out. 
4) B22. Semi-improved neutral grassland. Most of the common is in this catagory. Dominated by unevenly grazed Deschampsia caespitosa, Ranunculus acris with Anthoxanthum odoratum, Cynosurus cristatus, Achillea millifolium, Potentilla reptans, Cirsium palustris. Carex hirta, Briza media and Lotus corniculatus are local, indicating the presence of calcareous clays. (Primula veris, Ononis spinosa and Silanum silaus have been recorded in the past, but could not be relocated.) 
5) Hedge of tall hawthorns, field maple, blackthorn, dogrose, bramble. 
6) Tall hawthorns scattered. 7) Sedge-rich area, with A.nodiflorum, V.scutella.

MANAGE:
The site is unevenly grazed by cattle and horses, with  the field margins being heavily grazed. The presence of Urtica dioica and Cirsium arvense indicate overgrazing, and the common appears to have lost some of its more interesting species. The ground around the gate and water trough is heavily poached. Reducing grazing intensity would be beneficial. Tall vegetation around the pond should be cut back to reduce shading, but tall herbs retained as cover. The hedges are important for birds.


FAUNA:
Birds:- House sparrow, Robin, Swallow, Collared Dove, Moorhen (on pond). 
Mammals:- Mole.

VEG:
The common is a large field of semi-improved grassland with a small pond. The hedge boundaries have mature trees. 
1) B22. Semi-improved grassland, moderately horse and cattle grazed, producing an NVC MG6 Lolium perenne and Cynosurus cristatus pasture, with Trifolium repens, T.pratense, Cirsium arvense, C.vulgare, Carex hirta, Holcus lanatus, Ranunculus acris, Festuca rubra, Cerastium fontanum, Achillea millifolium, Bellis perennis, Rumex acetosa and Deschampsia caespitosa. 
2) G111 Small pond. Fenced off and overgrown with Apium nodiflorum, Veronica beccabunga, Typha latifolia and Lycopus europaeus, Urtica dioica, Rosa canina, Rubus fruticosus, ash and hawthorn on the edges. 
3) The common is surrounded by boundary hedges of hawthorn, dead elms, and willows.

MANAGE:
The grassland is of little botanical interest, and grazing should continue as it is. A management priority should be to restore the pond by deepening it and cutting back the surrounding scrub. The willows in the hedge could be pollarded, and native trees planted to replace the dead elms.


FAUNA:
The western part had very little fauna with only Sparrows, Starlings and Swifts seen. The eastern area was more diverse with the hedgerow supporting a varied small bird population. Species seen included Wren, House Sparrow, Blue Tit, Whitethroat, Starling, Blackbird, House Martin, Magpie, Woodpigeon, Collared Dove.

VEG:
1) B22 Neutral grassland. Tall vegetation (c.1m high) dominated by Arrhenatherum elatius, Calamagrostis epigeios, Dactylis glomerata, Deschampsia caespitosa, Elymus repens, Holcus lanatus. Generally very tussocky, mixed with patchy Urtica dioica, Rubus fruticosus and Heracleum sphondylium. A rough track running parallel with the road has been mown and has Lolium perenne, Trifolium repens, Potentilla anserina. The eastern boundary has dumped rubble with a ruderal community of U.dioica, H.sphondylium, Malva sylvatica. 
2) The eastern boundary is a hedge of tall hawthorns with large mature ash. 
3) Planted trees. Eastern area. 
4) Ruderal vegetation of U.dioica, Cirsium vulgare, D. glomerata, M.sylvestris, Rumex crispus. Elder and 1 planted horse chestnut present. 
5) Heavily mown area between track and ditch. 
6) Tall ruderal community. Tall ruderals, including Urtica dioica, Cirsium arvense, Heracleum sphondylium, Galium aparine, Dipsacus fullonum, Epilobium palustre, Tragopogon pratensis. Some trees have been planted, with ash most common. 
7) Dense hedge of elder, ash, hawthorn, blackthorn, dogwood, dog rose. The hedge is thicker towards the north-east end.
8) A small, overgrown pond. Contains very little water, and is choked with vegetation, including Glyceria maxima, Mentha x niliaca and Equisetum arvense. Some dumping has occurred, and ruderal species such as Galeopsis tetrahit and Artemisia vulgaris are common.

MANAGE:
Western area. This part of the common was a pit c.60 years ago, and was generally water-filled. It was apparently good for wildfowl (moorhens, ducks, etc.) The surrounding area was used to graze cattle and goats. After the Second World War, the pit was filled in using rubble from dismantled air-raid shelters, and was covered in top soil, and soil from carrot-washings. The grassland is probably self-seeded. Recent plans to turn the area into a children's playground have been shelved due to a boundary dispute, and because the common would have to be fenced against the road. At present, the area is cropped for hay by a local farmer, but dumped rubble by the eastern boundary reduces the area that can be safely cropped, and he is apparently not keen to continue. The council encourage people to graze animals on the common, but grazing is very limited. The best management for the common would be to continue cutting it for hay, making sure that all cut material is removed, to prevent enrichment of the grassland. In this way, the coarser grasses will be prevented from shading out the other species altogether. The common has `No Tipping' signs, and tipping should certainly be prevented. This part of the common is of value, as it is a small open area of semi-natural vegetation in a residential area, and care should be taken that it is not encroached upon.

Eastern area.
The most important areas for wildlife on this part of the common appear to be the dense hedge and the pond. The hedge should be maintained as it is, due to its value for small birds in particular. The pond is in need of clearing out and deepening, but marginal vegetation should be retained. The tipped material by the pond should be removed, and further tipping discouraged. The bank of Grunty Fen drain has been mown very short, which seems to be excessive, especially as the vegetation fringing the ditch has been removed. In future, this should be retained to provide cover. Tree-planting has been carried out.


FAUNA:
Birds:- House Sparrow, Dunnock, Starling, Wood Pigeon.  
Mammals:- Rabbit Shrew.

VEG:
The common is an area of rough grassland with ruderal species present. 
1) B2.2 Semi-improved neutral grassland, equivalent to NVC MG1 grassland. Dominated by Arrhenatherum elatius with Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Festuca rubra, Hordeum murinum, Deschampsia caespitosa, Urtica dioica, Ranunculus acris. 
2) J2.2 Hedge. The hedge at the western end has elder, ash, sycamore, Salix caprea, and hawthorn. 3) Southern area by the track has been disturbed and has bare ground with ruderals such as Plantago major and Lolium perenne. 
4) A ditch at the north-west corner has Epilobium hirsuitum, Artemisia vulgaris, Solanum dulcamara, Calystegia sepium, Typha latifolia, Phalaris arundinacea.

MANAGE:
The common is surrounded by a rapidly expanding industrial estate, and adjacent commons have been de-registered and developed. This is likely to occur here, but if the site is not developed, it should be planted up with trees, to provide a small woodland within this urban area.


FAUNA:
A number of common bird species were recorded including Sparrow, Chaffinch, Swift, Starling and Mallard.

VEG:
The common is predominantly reseeded amenity grassland with planted trees. It borders the river Cam. 
1) B4 Amenity grassland. Dominated by a mixture of Lolium perenne and Poa pratensis with scattered Bellis perennis, Taraxacum officinale, Trifolium repens. Urtica dioica is common in uncut areas especially along the river bank. 
2) A3 Scattered trees. These are generally tall mature Plane, Beech, Sycamore and Willow planted alongside the river main road and southern boundary. 
3) J5 The boundary is unclear but it appears that this southerly extension of the common is a tarmac road between houses. It could have been a drove road used to bring grazing animals onto the site in the past. The common is crossed by numerous surfaced paths. Importance to some wildlife also.

MANAGE:
Management is very much orientated towards informal recreation. The grassland is gang-mown to a rather uniform length, and trees are felled when necessary, the gaps being replanted with similar species. Leaving rougher areas around the boundaries and around trees would increase the variety in vegetation structure, and would be of benefit to invertebrates. Management for recreation is largely confined to maintaining paths, providing litter bins and seats, and allowing access by means of gates and bridges. The common is obviously of tremendous value as an area of open ground to the people of Cambridge, as there was a continual passage of pedestrians and cyclists observed at the time of the survey. The traditional Midsummer Fair is still held on the common, and is very popular. The common is ideally managed as an open area in a city; by allowing `rough'vegetation to develop in the least disturbed areas, it could be ofimportance to some wildlife also.


FAUNA:
Birds:- A number of common species were recorded during the survey including Sparrow, Swift, Whitethroat, Starling, Songthrush, Blackbird and Mallard.

VEG:
The common is a large area of semi-improved neutral grassland with scattered trees. 
1) Childrens play area with swings slides etc. 
2) B22 Semi-improved neutral grassland. Tall grassland dominated by Lolium perenne, Poa pratensis Ranunculus acris with Cynosurus cristatus, Holcus lanatus, Cirsium vulgare, patchy Urtica dioica. Hordeum secalinum is common under trees. 
3) A3 Scattered trees. Young plane trees have been planted along the main path. 
4) Area fenced off from the rest of the common with planted trees - silver poplar, field maple, willow, horse chestnut, elder, with tall elder, field maple along the south boundary. The grass around the trees has not been cut and consists of a tall herb community of U. dioica, Heracleum sphondylium, Cirsium arvense, Galium aparine and grasses including Dactylis glomerata and Elymus repens. 
5) B22 Similar to 2) but the vegetation is dominated by R.acris. This area is unevenly grazed. 
6) Cattle congregate here, and the vegetation is heavily grazed, with R. acris less common, and Trifolium repens abundant. 
7) A3 Alders and willows planted. 
8) River bank vegetation is closely mown, and has large mature willows and horse chestnuts.

MANAGE:
Management emphasis is on grazing, rather than recreation The main entrance roads to the common have cattle-grids to prevent stock from straying, and planted trees are fenced, to protect them from browsing. Grazing is uneven - most of the grassland is a mosaic of tall and ungrazed, or grazed-down, trampled vegetation. The area 6) has been heavily grazed by cattle. The river bank is closely-mown, and there are ramps to allow boats to be launched. The towpath is partly surfaced, and is used as a footpath. Diseased trees along the river have been removed, and the gaps planted up with willows and chestnuts.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Species recorded during the site visit included Linnet, Swift, Yellowhammer, Common ern, Red-legged Partridge.

VEG:
The common is divided into two parts by a bridge. The larger western area is reseeded grassland; the eastern area is semi-improved grassland. 
1) B4 Reseeded grassland. Dominated by a mixture of Lolium perenne and Poa with Dactylis glomerata. Cirsium arvense and C.vulgare are scattered especially on the river bank. Plantago major and Polygonum persicaria are abundant on disturbed ground. 
2) A wet hollow with Glyceria maxima, Angelica sylvestris, Veronica scutellata and Lemna sp. common. 
3) A3 Scattered trees. Willows, poplars, aspen and field maple have been planted. 
4) F21 The river is not in the common but has a well-developed marginal flora including Carex riparia, Veronica beccabunga, Glyceria maxima, Iris pseudacorus, Scirpus lacustris, Sagittaria sagittifolia. Floating species include Potomageton sp., Nuphar lutea. 
5) B22 Semi-improved neutral grassland. Dominated by Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Arrhenatherum elatius, Lolium perenne, Phleum. Urtica dioica is common along hedges. Ash, willow, aspen have been planted. Elder and hawthorns are present in the hedges

MANAGE:
1) Grazed by cattle. The area adjacent to the bridge has been disturbed by vehicles, and manure dumped. This should be removed. 2) The wet area provides some interest as a contrast to the species-poor grassland. It could be deepened, to retain water for longer, or made larger. 3) The planted trees have been protected from browsing by cattle. 4) The marginal vegetation has been grazed down in places, but this is not a problem. It provides interest, both in terms of species, and as cover for birds and invertebrates. 5) This area is managed for recreation, with picnic tables, litter bins, etc. The vegetation was long at the time of visit, and was probably to be cut for hay. It is probably cattle-grazed in winter.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Species recorded on site visit included Sparrow, Swift, Skylark, Blackbird, Woodpigeon, Carrion Crow.

VEG:
A large area of predominantly semi-improved neutral grassland crossed by a tributary of the River Ouse and by roads. 
1) Sheep-grazed pasture crossed by a number of ditches which increase species diversity. Forbs are otherwise infrequent with the exception of Cirsium arvense and the grasses are diverse with no dominants. Principal species include Alopecurus pratensis, A.geniculatus, Dactylis glomerata, Ranunculus acris, Deschampsia caespitosa, Holcus lanatus, Cynosurus cristatus, Anthriscus sylvestris, Cirsium sp., Arrhenatherum elatius, Phalaris arundinacea. 
2) Very rough grassland with a variety of grasses. Cirsium arvense is frequent Ranunculus sp. and Trifolium sp. local. 
3) The most diverse area slightly wet with tussocky vegetation including Filipendula ulmaria, Deschampsia caespitosa, Alopecurus pratensis, Dactylis glomerata, Phleum pratense, Ranunculus repens, Carex flacca, C.hirta, Oenanthe fistulosa, Caltha palustris, Cynosurus cristatus, Eleocharis palustris. Deschampsia caespitosa is locally dominant to the north. 
4) Species-poor pasture with ruderal herbs, dominated by Dactylis glommerata. 
5) Improved pasture with Urtica dioica by the road bank. 
6) Ruderal community, developed on dumped stone, with Arrhenatherum elatius, Dipsacus fullonum, Anthriscus sylvestris, Rosa canina and Tilia x europaea.

MANAGE:
1) Hay cut from this area, aftermath is sheep grazed. 
2) Very rough grassland, cattle-grazed from spring to autumn. 
3) Cattle grazed meadow. 
4) Cattle grazed. Part was being cut for hay at the time of visit. 
5) Small, improved field, closely grazed. 1 horse and 1 pony present at time of visit. A small enclosure at the northern corner houses Water Authority equipment, and is screened from the road by planted shrubs. Tall, mature limes have been planted along the road boundary. 
6) Rubble, stone etc dumped under the road flyover bridge.


FAUNA:
No faunal records exist for the common itself but it lies within the Nene Washes SSSI - an area of international importance for wintering wetland birds - and the Nene Washes ISR site. For the latter, 1 RDB2 species of diving beetle (Agabus undulatus) and 3 notable species - Coenagrion pulchellum, Neoascia geniculata, Odontomyia viridula have been recorded. The ISR is graded C, but this reflects lack of information rather than interest. The common is likely to be used by hunting raptors and by passerines. Boundary ditches are important for aquatic fauna.

VEG:
The common is an old drove road, and is still used for access and for moving cattle. The vegetation is therefore of very little interest, consisting mostly of tall ruderal species, dominated by Urtica dioica by the track sides. Much of the track is bare ground and rubble. The ditches bordering the drove road are of value for their aquatic flora, including Hydrocharis morsus-ranae and Utricularia sp.

MANAGE:
The ditches are managed by the local drainage authority, and problems have occured with excessive clearance of ditches and dumping of spoil. Otherwise, management is confined to cutting back vegetation to maintain access.


FAUNA:
No faunal records exist for the common itself, but it lies within the Nene Washes SSSI - an area of international importance for wintering wetland birds - and the Nene Washes ISR site. For the latter 1 RDB2 species of diving beetle has been recorded (Agabus undulatus) and 3 notable species - Coenagrion pulchellum, Neoascia geniculata, Odontomyia viridula. The common itself is likely to be used by hunting raptors such as Short-eared Owls and Kestrels. Mortons Leam divides the common and is of interest for its aquatic fauna. The ISR needs further survey.

VEG:
The common supports mostly ruderal vegetation dominated by Urtica dioica and Arrhenatherum elatius. Salix scrub occurs in a strip along the road boundary on the southern part of the site. Mortons Leam divides the common into two parts, and is of value for its aquatic flora. The common is important in that part of it lies within an SSSI which is of international status. The roadside verge appears to be of little interest.

MANAGE:
Part of the site may be grazed by cattle, but it appears that little management occurs. The Highways Authority is responsible for the verge.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Wren, Chaffinch, Blue Tit, Skylark, Starling, Mistlethrush, Wood Pigeon, Carrion Crow, Red-legged Partridge. Most species are associated with the boundary hedges. 
Mammals:- Shrew, Mole, Rabbit. 
Invertebrates:- Ischnura elegans.

VEG:
The common is an area of semi-improved grassland, with two small overgrown ponds and a track. 
1) B22 Semi-improved neutral grassland. Most of the common falls into this catagory with Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne, Dactylis glomerata, Deschampsia caespitosa, Arrhenatherum elatius, Phleum pratense, Festuca rubra, Agrostis capillaris, Ranunculus acris, Cirsium arvense, C.vulgare, Bellis perennis, Senecio jacobaea all common. Equivalent to NVC MG6 community. 1b) Where cattle-trampling is heavy along the track near a cattle pen and gate, a more ruderal community has developed with Plantago major, Lolium perenne, and Matricaria matricoides. NVC MG7.5  
2) G111 Small overgrown ponds. 2a) is steep-sided, shaded and stagnant, c.20m by 40m, and fenced. It is surrounded by Salix alba, S.fragilis, Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna and Quercus. The scrub forms a corridor to 2b), a small pond with virtually no water. It is cattle-poached, and has Ranunculus hederaceus, R.sceleratus, Cardamine flexuosa. The common is bordered by a hedge which includes many old Ulmus prosera stumps. One of these is resprouting.

MANAGE:
The grassland is of little interest, and, as it is used for cattle-grazing, management should continue as at present. The ponds should be the main focus of management, as they will disappear if not cleared soon. The trees should be cut back, the willows pollarded, and the ponds cleared of debris and deepened.


FAUNA:
All records are for the SSSI as a whole, and the value of the common lies in fact that it is part of such an important wetland area. The SSSI is the best inland water area for dabbling ducks in Britain. It holds upto one third of the British population of Bewicks swan in winter and supports nationally significant numbers of breeding wetland birds. A number of Schedule 1 species breed. It is important as a feeding and roosting area. Within the Ouse Washes ISR grade C site. The low grading is due to lack of data; further survey is needed. 5 notable and 1 local species are present.

VEG:
The common is an area of neutral grassland which is seasonally inundated and surrounded by ditches and channels. 
1) B2.1 Neutral unimproved lowland grassland subject to periodic inundation. Mosaic wash vegetation dominated by Phalaris arundinacea, Glyceria maxima, Polygonum amphibiam, with Eleocharis palustris in small scattered patches. The vegetation is often low and sparse with up to 30% bare ground, but the sward is structurally diverse. 
2) South channel of the Old Bedford river. Contains the nationally rare/restricted plant Nymphoides peltata. This has also been recorded for the ditch on the north-east boundary marked 3) on the map. 
4) Open ditches with Senecio aquatica on the margins. 
5) A small area of permanent open water. Although it does not lie within the common it is worth noting that the Old Bedford river has a very rich flora and fauna including nationally rare species, and that management directly affects the distribution of these.

MANAGE:
Traditionally, the common would have been used for grazing, and so the present management of summer grazing by cattle is ideal. Problems have occurred when summer flooding has made grazing impossible, and the Trust has a policy of topping the vegetation under these conditions, to prevent it becoming rank, and species diversity declining. Periodic clearing out of ditches is undertaken with care, and is carried out on a rotational basis to ensure that populations of the uncommon species are not lost.


FAUNA:
The commom lies within Wicken Fen ISR site - a grade A site. No records exist for the common itself, but the site as a whole is of top quality in a national context for 7 invertebrate groups:- Mollusca, Trichoptera aquatic, Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Diptera aculeate, Hymenoptera and Araneae. A number of rare and uncommon species have been recorded including some endemic to this area. Wicken Fen reserve has a nationally important Hen Harrier roost, and is of regional value for wintering wildfowl and its breeding bird communities, including a major Acrocephalus warbler colony.

VEG:
The common is part of Wicken Fen SSSI, and has not been surveyed as a separate entity. The SSSI is a mosaic of sedge fen, carr scrub, reedbed, rough pasture, pools, old clay pits and dykes. The common itself supports fen carr with Franula alnus, Rhamnus catharticus and Salix cinerea as the principal species.

MANAGE:
Past management: The common, together CL 27 and 28 was set aside for the poor of Wicken to cut sedges and reeds for thatch, and turf and peat for fires.  However, the commoners ceased to exercise their rights after the First World War, and the site has gradually become dominated by scrub. Present management:  Virtually no management has been carried out, apart from the clearing and cutting of paths. The National Trust management plan recommends leaving the area as a buffer zone to the main reserve, and retaining the carr as a habitat for birds.


FAUNA:
The common lies within Wicken Fen ISR site - a grade A site. No records exist for the common itself, but the site as a whole is of top quality in a national context for 7 invertebrate groups:- Mollusca, Trichoptera aquatic, Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Diptera, Aculeate, Hymenoptera and Araneae. A number of rare and uncommon species have been recorded, including some endemic to this area. Wicken Fen reserve has a nationally important Hen Harrier roost and is of regional value for wintering wildfowl and its breeding bird communities, including a major Acrocephalus warbler colony.

VEG:
The common is part of the Wicken Fen SSSI, and has not been surveyed as a separate entity. The SSSI is a mosaic of sedge fen, carr scrub, reedbed, rough pasture, pools, old clay pits and dykes. The details of vegetation given here have been taken from SSSI information for the mixed fen habitat found on the common. Species present include Phragmites australis, Phalaris arundinacea, Molinia caerulea, Juncus subnodulosus, Lythrum salicaria, Angelica sylvestris, Lysimachia vulgaris, Peucedanum palustre, Thalictrum flavum and Succisa pratensis.

MANAGE:
Historical: Originally, the people of Wicken had rights to cut sedge and reeds for thatching and turf for fuel from St.Edmunds fen and part of Wicken Sedge Fen (then much larger).  The area was divided into strips or 'dolvers'. The area remaining today was originally set aside for the poor. Although the ground is pitted from past peat workings, rights have not been exercised since the first World War. Previous land use has undoubtedly increased the interest of the area, by creating wet areas, pools and other habitats of immense value to invertebrates, in particular. Present management: The Management plan devised by the National Trust includes clearance of the carr if it encroaches onto sedge areas, and the cutting of sedge on a four year cycle. Scrub control is essential if the diversity of invertebrate life is to be maintained.


FAUNA:
The common lies within Stow Cum Quy ISR grade B site. The invertebrate records cannot be directly attributed to the common, as several important pools lie outside the boundary, but the majority of species occur on the common. The ISR site is important for Odonata, with 17 species recorded. 3 nationally uncommon species occur on the pool within the common - Anax imperator, Brachytron pratense, Sympetrum sanguineum. Diptera are well represented with 11 RDB species recorded recently. It is a top national location for water beetles, but more survey work is needed on Coleoptera.

VEG:
1) B3.1 and B3.2 Unimproved and semi-improved basic grassland. Most of the common falls into this catagory. The area around the pool is largely unmodified, but the majority of the grassland has had some kind of improvement in the past. Species present include Linum catharticum, Primula veris, Sanguisorba minor, Briza media, Orchis apifera and Anacamptis pyramidalis. Senecio jacobaea and Cirsium are both common in the grassland and are a management problem. 
2) A2.2 Scattered scrub. This is especially abundant around the pool, and scrub is also scattered over the grassland. 
3) G1 Pool. The pool is an important feature for invertebrates. It contains Phragmites australis, Sparganium emersum, Hippuris vulgaris, Utricularia vulgaris. The common has a small area of improved grassland and some scattered trees.

MANAGE:
Managed entirely for crop production.  In the last century, the common was true fen. It was used for peat cutting, and, in early 1900s, the digging of coprolites. These practises resulted in the formation of a series of pits, which eventually filled with water, and now are extremely valuable habitats for invertebrates. The common was neglected until 1940, when used for grazing during the war. It was apparently ploughed and reseeded in the 1950's and grazing has continued. NCC has produced a management plan, and a Section 15 agreement to limit grazing is proposed.  30 cattle are permitted to graze between April and October.  The ponds are to be cleared as required in consultation with NCC.  Scrub is to be cleared and ragwort and thistles to be controlled.  NCC and the owners (Trustees) have agreed on management, the Cambridgeshire Wildlife Trust is involved, and management appears to be adequate, although there have been problems in the past due to overgrazing.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Wren, Robin, Dunnock, Blackcap, Sedge Warbler, Willow Warbler, Reed Bunting*, Skylark+, Yellow Wagtail+, Woodpigeon, Turtle Dove, Grey Partridge+, Magpie, Rook, Black-headed Gull, Kestrel, Snipe, Coot*, Moorhen, Mallard*.  ( * indicates confirmed breeders, + probable breeders). 
Amphibians:- Toad (locally rare). 
Mammals:- Shrew, Rabbit.
Invertebrates:- The common lies within the ISR site, but the most interesting area is outside the common boundary. There are no records for the grassland.

VEG:
Predominantly semi-improved neutral grassland with inundation communities and a large area of amenity grassland. 
1) B22 Semi-improved neutral grassland. The vegetation has been greatly influenced by past management and many of the old meadow species have been lost. 1a) NVC is MG6. Dominated by Lolium perenne and Cynosurus cristatus, with some diversity due to variation in drainage and management. The bank has been left uncut and has taller coarser vegetation with Cirsium arvense common. Plantago major, Capsella bursa-pastoris, Polygonum amphibium occur by the channel. Dactylorhiza praetermissa has been recorded. 1b) is very similar with Hordeum secalinum abundant. The largest area of MG6 occurs east of the channel (1c) with Lolium perenne dominant and Rumex pulcher reported. 1d) is an area of MG9 with Holcus lanatus and Deschampsia caespitosa co-dominant although Deschampsia caespitosa is less frequent to the north. 1e) An area of pony-grazed grassland, generally rough and disturbed, with tall herbs locally dominant. NVC equivalent is MG1. Acorus calamus has been recorded to the south.
2) B4 Reseeded amenity  grassland,  used  as  a  playing field. Generally species-poor, dominated by Lolium perenne. Pitches have been marked out, and are closely mown. They are surrounded by an uncut margin of MG1.
3) B5s Species-rich marshy grassland. 3a)is a heavily poached hollow, which is inundated. It is dominated by Glyceria fluitans, Alopecurus geniculatus, Juncus sp. 3b) has abundant Juncus inflexus, with J.tenuis present. NVC equivalent is MG13a.
4) J5. Road and parking areas. The common is crossed by a main road and is fenced against this. The north-west corner of the playing field is a roughly-surfaced car park surrounded by tall Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius,  Urtica dioica, Anthriscus sylvestris,Conium maculatum. The southern tip of the common, east of the main road, is an overflow car park for the market, and has Lolium perenne, Plantago major and Trifolium repens common, with Urtica dioica, Galium aparine, Anthriscus sylvestris and Arrhenatherum elatius around the edges.

MANAGE:
Historically, Lammas Meadow was cut for hay, and therefore shut up from March-August; Islands Common was never cut. Cattle were grazed over the whole area. Recently, the common has been improved, with basic slag applied every 2 years, and spraying being carried out every 5 years over selected areas. This has greatly reduced the number of old meadow species present. The common is harrowed every spring, and grazed by up to 80 cattle, which are taken off for the winter. 18 cattle were present during the site visit. Hay-cutting is intermittent and only occurs over part of the common. The area east of the road is reseeded grassland, managed as a sports' field, with pitches marked out and mown, and a pavilion at the southern end. A rough margin has been left around the boundaries, and some trees planted. The common used to have a Management Committee, but this can only function if it has a treasurer, and all the commoners participate.


FAUNA:
Local interest for breeding wetland birds, e.g. Snipe, Sedge Warbler.  Also Mallard, Swallow and Moorhen present.

VEG:
The area within the SSSI (ie the eastern part of the common) is semi-improved grassland dominated by Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius, Deschampsia caespitosa with Heracleum sphondylium, Cirsium arvense, Galium verum, Lotus corniculatus, Lathyrus pratensis, Ranunculus repens and the locally rare Danthonia decumbens. Scattered Crataegus monogyna scrub is present. The area to the west outside the SSSI boundary has Festuca rubra, F.arundinacea, Agropyron repens, Holcus lanatus with Vicia cracca. Soham lode an embanked slow-moving watercourse forms the boundary to the north.

MANAGE:
Cirsium arvense is a problem, and requires topping. The grassland has been neglected, and is dominated by tall grasses and scrub. Ophrys apifera and Gentianella amarella have been recorded in the past, and a controlled seasonal grazing regime would benefit these. The area outside the SSSI is rank grass with very few herbs. Ragwort is a problem, and scrub clearance is needed. There is a hay dump in the north corner of the field. Historically, the common was originally left for the benefit of open field farmers, and the rights frequently changed hands.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Lapwings roost on the common in January and also breed on the site. Other breeding birds include Mallard, Moorhen, Redshank, Yellow Wagtail, Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler, Reed Bunting, Corn Bunting, Skylark, Swallow. Invertebrates:- The common is an ISR site. Watercourses on the periphery of the site have a number of uncommon species including the nationally restricted Libellula fulva. There is currently no evidence that the grassland forming the bulk of the site is of much interest for invertebrates.

VEG:
Predominantly an area of species-rich unimproved and semi-improved neutral grassland with channels. The grassland communities are characterised by the presence of species such as Holcus lanatus, Trisetum flavescens, Alopecurus pratensis and Festuca pratensis. The range of herbs present, typical of such meadows, includes Galium verum, Silaum silaus and Sanguisorba officinalis. The equivalent NVC catagory is MG4 - Alopecurus pratensis/Sanguisorba officinalis flood meadows. 1 nationally rare species is present - there are 3 populations of Fritallaria meleagris consisting of a total of 90-100 plants. Oenanthe silaifolia also occurs.

MANAGE:
The area is cut for hay, and then grazed by cattle and sheep. Problems have arisen in the past over heavy stocking levels, and unauthorised feeding of concentrates in the late autumn and early winter. The stock are often still on the common by the end of November. Controlling stocking levels, and ensuring the animals are off the common before winter is important, and the NCC monitors all aspects of management. In the winter and early spring, Portholme is inundated by flood waters, providing natural enrichment of the grassland, and it is this, combined with traditional management, that maintains the diversity of the plant communities. It is possible that the present management regime is restricting the suitability of the grassland as a habitat for some species of invertebrate, but further information is needed.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Species recorded during the site visit included Whitethroat, Reed-warbler, Woodpigeon, Black-headed Gull, Common Tern. 
Invertebrates:- Calopteryx splendens, Lestes sponsa.

VEG:
The common is divided into north and south parts by the minor road. The northern area has been less modified and has generally tall, rather rank vegetation. The southern area is much more intensively managed. 
1) B22 Very tall vegetation, presumably to be cut for hay. Dominated by Arrhenatherum elatius, Deschampsia caespitosa, Calamagrostis epigeios, Dactylis glomerata, with Urtica dioica, Anthriscus sylvestris. Closest to NVC MG1. 
2) A wetter area with Glyceria maxima, Iris pseudacorus and Rumex hydrolapathum with Calamagrostis epigeios around the edges. 
3) A mown area along the bank, with planted trees including willows, field maples, hawthorns and sycamores. Tall mature sycamores, hawthorns, elders and willows form the boundaries. 
4) C31. Ruderal community developed on dumped stone with Urtica dioica, Ranunculus repens, Heracleum sphondylium, Geranium columbinum, Dactylis glomerata. 
5) B4. A reseeded field, dominated by Lolium perenne, with mature scattered hawthorns, elder and a large oak. 
6) Trees have been planted along the northern boundary, including field maple, horse chestnut, lime and willows.

MANAGE:
Vegetation on the southern part was very long at the time of visit, and was probably to be cut for hay. A strip had been mown along the river, to allow access for anglers. The wet area could be deepened to form a pond, leaving some tall marginal vegetation. Trees have been planted, and the hedgerows are of value to small birds. The southern part has been more intensively managed. At the time of survey the grass had been mown very short, and a parking area marked out, using stakes and ropes. A hut for issuing fishing permits is situated by the gate. Trees have been planted along the road boundary.


FAUNA:
The common lies within Castor Hanglands ISR grade A site. The area is of great importance for butterflies although these have declined recently. The pools support an outstanding assembledge of dragon-flies and it is a top national site for Hemiptera, with uncommon, and one nationally rare species present. The dense scrub is important for Black hairstreak butterflies. Anthills occur in the grassland. In addition to some 16 species of dragonflies, the pond has breeding Great Crested and Palmate Newts and diverse aquatic fauna. The woodland and scrub are of value to birds.

VEG:
The common supports a mosaic of habitats from ancient woodland through to scrub and grassland. 1) B5 Marshy grassland. Dominated by a mixture of Juncus and Carex with a diverse flora including Carex distans, C. disticha, C. flacca, Mentha aquatica, Dactylorhiza incarnata. 
2) B21 Unimproved neutral grassland with scattered scrub. Principal species include Brachypodium pinnatum, Festuca rubra, F.ovina, Galium verum, Galium cruciata, Pastinaca sativa. 3) B31 Unimproved calacreous grassland. Species-rich grassland developed over oolitic limestone with Astragalus danicus, Genista tinctoria and Gentianella amarella. 
4) A21 Dense scrub. Dominated by Prunus spinosa and Crataegus monogyna with Ligustrum vulgare, Cornus sanguinea. 
5) Neutral grassland. As for 2) above. 
6) A11 Semi-natural broadleaved woodland. The common has ancient semi-natural and ancient replanted woodland, dominated by Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior and Betula pendula. Ancient woodland indicator species are present. 
7) G1 Pond. Species present include Potamogeton natans, Zannichellia palustris.

MANAGE:
1) The marshy grassland is kept as a short sward by annual cutting or deer-grazing, but 1 area is cut on a 2-year rotation to benefit insects. 2) and 3). Part is cut for hay, the rest is sheep-grazed. Scrub growth is controlled by mowing on an 8-year rotation. 4) is managed by small-scale cutting to improve age structure. Woodland areas have a rich ground-flora, but are structurally poor, due to past management. Deer-grazing is a problem, and areas of the woodland have had to be fenced to exclude deer, so regeneration can occur.


FAUNA:
The common lies within Castor Hanglands ISR grade A site. The area as a whole is of great importance for butterflies, although these have declined recently, and is a top national site for Hemiptera, with a number of uncommon, and 1 nationally rare species recorded. The woodland and scrub appear to be of greater value to invertebrates than the grassland, with the Black hairstreak in particular being associated with dense scrub. There are no bird records available, but the wooded areas are likely to be of interest to passerines. The common is part of an area rich in fauna.

VEG:
The common consists of a mosaic of habitats with calcareous grassland and woodland dominant. 
1) B3.1 Species-rich calcareous grassland developed over oolitic limestone. Notable species include Campanula glomerata and Blackstonia perfoliata. 
2) A2.1 Dense scrub. Dominated by Prunus spinosa and Crataegus monogyna with Lingustrum vulgare, Cornus sanguinea, Euonymus europaeus, Vibernum lantana, V.opulus. 
3) A1.1.1 Broadleaved semi-natural woodland. Quercus robur and Fraxinus excelsior are dominant. Ancient woodland indicator species are present including Melica uniflora, Lamiastrum galeobdolon. 
4) A large area of C11 dense Pteridium aquilinum.

MANAGE:
1) The grassland is partly mown and partly sheep-grazed. 2) The scrub is managed by cutting, to improve its age structure. 3) Sycamore is being cleared from the wood to reduce shading effects, and deer are excluded to allow natural regeneration to occur. Rides are maintained by cutting. Otherwise, the woodland is left undisturbed, as far as possible.
The juxtaposition of different habitat types makes the common, with CL49, of extreme importance to invertebrates, including a number of nationally rare or restricted species. Management is therefore directed towards maintaining this richness of vegetation type and structure, whilst, at the same time, promoting the diversity of species within the individual habitats.


FAUNA:
The common lies within Wicken Fen ISR site - a grade A site. No records exist for the common itself but the site as a whole is of top quality in a national context for 7 invertebrate groups:- Mollusca Trichoptera aquatic, Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Diptera, Aculeate, Hymenoptera and Araneae. A number of rare and uncommon species have been recorded, including some endemic to this area. Wicken Fen reserve has a nationally important Hen Harrier roost, and is of regional value for wintering wildfowl and its breeding bird communities, including a major Acrocephalus warbler colony.

VEG:
The common is part of the Wicken Fen SSSI, and has not been surveyed as a separate entity. The SSSI is a mosaic of sedge fen, carr scrub, reedbed, rough pasture, pools, old clay pits and dykes. The common supports mostly carr vegetation. Species recorded include Phragmites australis, Frangula alnus, Rhamnus catharticus and Salix cinerea. Advanced succession is  occurring from reed bed to Salix/Frangula alnus scrub.

MANAGE:
Historically: Originally, the common was one of 3 areas set aside for the poor to cut sedge and reeds for thatching, and turf and peat for fuel. Scrub has become established as the commoners stopped exercising their rights after the First World War, but the old peat working add greatly to the present diversity of the site, as they form important habitats, for invertebrates in particular. 
Present Management: Scrub clearance has been suggested by NCC, as this is important in maintaining the value of the site for invertebrates, but the National Trust management plan proposes retaining the area as a buffer zone to the main reserve, and preserving the carr for passerine birds. NCC has a management agreement with the Parish Council to facilitate the removal of scrub, but this has been difficult to undertake due to the uneven topography resulting from past peat digging.


FAUNA:
An extensive list of invertebrates has been recorded for the SSSI as a whole, but no records exist for the common separately. 2 local species of Heteroptera occur - Onocotylus viridiflavus and Harticus saltator. The Chalkhill Blue was recorded in the 60s and late 70s, but has not been seen recently. 16 species of butterfly have been recorded for the SSSI, with the Grizzled Skipper being the only one locally uncommon. The common is of local interest for invertebrates.  No species lists for birds exist, but the abundance of scrub should benefit small birds in particular.

VEG:
The common is only a very small proportion of the SSSI, and vegetation details have been extracted from data existing for the whole site. The common supports a mixture of unimproved calcareous grassland and neutral grassland with much scrub. 1) B21 Neutral grassland. Derived from calcareous grassland due to lack of management. Dominated by Arrhenatherum elatius. 
2) B31 Unimproved calcareous grassland. This is of the greatest interest for the SSSI as a whole, but the small area on the common has become more neutral in character as the lack of management allows the coarser grasses to predominate. Herbs present include Centurea nigra, C.scabiosa, Galium verum, Pimpinella saxifraga, Knautia arvensis. 
3) A22 Scattered scrub. The grassland has large clumps of Crataegus monogyna with Fraxinus excelsior, Prunus spinosa, Ligustrum vulgare scattered over it.

MANAGE:
Management objectives on the SSSI are to increase the area of calcareous grassland and the frequency of characteristic species. This is being achieved by clearing scrub, and mowing to supress the coarser grasses typical of the neutral grassland. A potential problem is the spread of Urtica dioica where scrub has been removed. In the past, pits such as this were set aside in enclosure awards for the repair of public and private roads, and people entitled to do so exercised rights of common in the soil, thus making the pits common land in the legal sense.


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

VEG:
The broadleaved woodland occupies the central area of the common (see map) and is dominated by {\it Betula} spp. It contains occasional {\it Ulmus glabra} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. There is good regenaration of {\it Betula} spp., especially at the eastern end. A few of the trees have been coppiced (not recent). There is no evidence of regular livestock grazing.

The understorey consists of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}, with occasional {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. The ground flora is dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, with locally frequent {\it Holcus mollis, Galium saxatile, Teucrium scorodonia} and {\it Mnium hornum}, plus scattered {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it D. filix-mas}.      

In the western half of the common, the woodland grades into {\it Salix cinerea} and {\it S. caprea} dominated scrub, which covers an area of hillocks and hollows created by soil extraction. One of the largest hollows forms a small pond site (shown on the OS map). It is almost overgrown with {\it Salix} spp., but contains scattered clumps of {\it Juncus effusus}, with occasional {\it Caltha palustris} on muddy, trampled ground (no standing water).       

In the eastern half of the common, the woodland gives way to a band of dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} on a south facing slope, where there is also  a small area of dry heath dominated by young {\it Calluna vulgaris}.

The marshy grassland is situated on an almost level area at the bottom of the S. facing slope. It is dominated by tussocky {\it Molinia caerulea}, with frequent {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Viola palustris, Sphagnum palustre, S. papillosum} and {\it Aulocomnium palustre}, plus occasional {\it Lotus uliginosus, Juncus effusus, Potentilla erecta} and (around edges), {\it Digitalis purpurea} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}.

MANAGE:
The common does not appear to be subject to regular livestock grazing or removal of timber. Some dead birch trees have been left standing in the woodland, and this practice should be continued.

It would be desirable to prevent encroachment of bracken downslope onto the heathland and marshy grassland areas.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: Bluetit, Chiffchaff, Robin.

VEG:
The woodland is dominated by {\it Betula} sp. (old coppiced and standard trees), with locally frequent {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Quercus robur}, plus occasional {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. There is a wide age range, with good regeneration, especially of {\it Q. robur}. One young {\it Taxus baccata} tree was seen. The understorey consists of occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Rhododendron ponticum}.    

The ground flora is dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea}, with locally frequent {\it Hedera helix, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Dryopteris dilatata}, plus occasional {\it Erica tetralix}.

{\it Osmunda regalis} is recorded as being present in the Cheshire Sites of Biological Importance Record (1994).

MANAGE:
There is no evidence of regular livestock grazing. A few dead Betula sp. trees have been left in situ, and this practice should be continued.

The common was probably once much more open in character. The  Cheshire Sites of Biological Importance Record (1994) describes the the habitat as being "A small area of scrub woodland which has developed over an old mossland site. Parts of the site are still fairly wet with a diverse flora. Some royal fern is found." It also mentions that "management is desperately needed, as the site is being degraded by tipping, etc." No peripheral tipping was seen, but in the centre of the common, the remains of a large wooden shed, with items of old furniture was seen.


FAUNA:
Small tortoiseshell, large white and meadow brown butterflies were seen occasionaly in the vicinity of the hedgerows. The following birds were noted: blackbird, chaffinch, house sparrow, jackdaw, pied wagtail, starling.

VEG:
The improved and arable fields are mostly divided by {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominated hedgerows. Their condition varies, but most are between 1.5 and 3.0m high with few gaps and trimmed at least once a year. About half have mature standard trees along their length - these are mostly {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Alnus glutinosa} are usually present where a hedge follows a ditch or small stream, and occasionally, {\it Salix fragilis}. Other hedgerow shrub species recorded: occasional {\it Ilex aquifloium, Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra, Salix} sp. and {\it Rosa canina}. Of the hedges surveyed on foot, the ground flora was not very diverse, eg: locally abundant {\it Aegopodium podagraria} and {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Hedera helix, Arrhenatherum elatius, Elymus repens, Dactylis glomerata, Rumex obtusifolius, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Ranunculus repens}, plus occasional {\it Mercurialis perennis} and {\it Alliaria petiolata}. 

Of the three pond sites seen in arable fields (marked S on map 1, in the section NW of the A530), one had been infilled and two appeared to contain dense stands of {\it Juncus effusus}. Other pond sites were not surveyed. Discontinuous stands of {\it Phalaris arundinacea} were found along the River Weaver at SJ649537, with occasional {\it Sparganium erectum, Veronica anagalis-aquatica, Rorripa palustris} and {\it Glyceria fluitans}. {\it Sparganium erectum} was also recorded along Cheney Brook (SJ662541).

Small areas of broadleaved plantation are situated around the A500/A530 roundabout (SJ659536).

MANAGE:
As nearly all of the land is intensively farmed improved/arable land, it is unlikely at present (for financial reasons) that users would want to reduce the intensity of use to improve the nature conservation interest. It would be desirable to retain the existing hedgerows and trees, and to avoid filling in any remaining pond sites.


FAUNA:
Small tortioseshell butterflies were seen around the edges of the woodland. The following birds were noted: bluetit, chiffchaff, house sparrow, song thrush, swallow.

VEG:
The woodland is dominated by {\it Betula} spp. and {\it Alnus glutinosa}, with occasional {\it Quercus robur, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. Most of the {\it Alnus glutinosa} is situated in the southern and eastern parts of the woodland, where there are extensive shallow depressions (up to about 1.5m deep), often with saturated soil or small areas of standing water. Most of the trees are mature standards; there are also a few are old coppiced trees, and scattered, young saplings. There is an understorey in this area of scattered {\it Salix caprea, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}, with occasional {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. More {\it Salix caprea} (with {\it S. cinerea} and {\it Ulex europeaus}) is concentrated along the edge of the woodland, where it borders the amenity grassland.  

{\it Betula pendula} and {\it B. pubescens} predominate in the drier, central and northern areas of the woodland. There are mature standard and old coppiced trees, with scattered dense, almost impenetrable stands of young trees and saplings ({\it Quercus robur} as well as {\it Betula} spp.). Some of the younger trees in this area have been felled and left in situ.  

The ground flora is most diverse in the wetter, southern and eastern parts of the woodland. In the shallow depressions, there are extensive carpets of {\it Solanum dulcamara} and {\it Glyceria fluitans}, with frequent {\it Ranunculus flammula, Lycopus europaeus, Cardamine pratensis, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Geum rivale, Galium palustre} and {\it Dryopteris dilatata}, plus occasional {\it Cirsium palustre} and {\it Glyceria maxima}. Other species noted in this area include locally frequent {\it Molinia caerulea, Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum, Urtica dioica, Silene dioica, Circaea lutetiana, Galium aparine, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Hedera helix, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Mnium hornum} and {\it Sphagnum} sp.  A small pond (about 8m wide) on the W. edge of the woodland contains abundant {\it Potentilla palustris}.    

In the drier, northern and central parts of the woodland, there are extensive areas of bare ground covered with leaf litter. The ground flora consists of scattered patches of {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Urtica dioica} and (mature) {\it Calluna vulgaris}, with locally frequent {\it Holcus mollis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Rumex acetosella, R. acetosa, Anthriscus sylvestris, Aegopodium podagraria} and {\it Ranunculus repens}, plus occasional {\it Rumex crispus, R. obtusifolius} and {\it Digitalis purpurea}.

MANAGE:
Apart from the few felled trees, there does not appear to be any ongoing management of the woodland area. The description of the common in the Cheshire SBI Record (1994) suggests that there were once areas of heathland on the site. Birch sapling removal and relief of public pressure are recommended.  It would be desirable to retain any standing of fallen deadwood in situ in any future management programme.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, starling.

VEG:
The largest pond, in the detached section on the eastern side of Kidderton Lane, is fringed with dense stands of {\it Phalaris arundinacea}, with frequent clumps of {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it J. inflexus}, plus occasional {\it Apium nodiflorum} and {\it Typha latifolia}. On the banks, there are dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria}, with frequent {\it Centaurea nigra} and {\it Ranunculus repens}, plus occasional {\it Conopodium majus} and {\it Urtica dioica}. 

In the much smaller section on the opposite side of the road, there is a small pond site (about 10m wide) which contains abundant {\it Solanum dulcamara}, with occasional {\it Phalaris arundinacea}. It is partly shaded by mature {\it Salix fragilis} and {\it Alnus glutinosa} trees.  

There is a small area (about 20x20m) of mown {\it Calluna vulgaris} heath, with occasional {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Stachys officinalis} around a {\it Salix fragilis} tree in the triangle of grassland just N. of the crossroads.

A discontinuous {\it Crataegus monogyna} hedge runs along the NW boundary of the common.

MANAGE:
Managed as amenity grassland, cut regularly. The small area of dry heath would probably spread further if cutting was relaxed. Under the present management, this feature will probably disappear.


FAUNA:
A mute swan was seen on a small island near the northern end of the pond. Other species: heron, mallard, moorhen, coot. Shells of what appears to be the terrestrial snail {\it Cepea nemoralis} were found in the scrub at the northern end of the pond.  

The site is important for migrating and breeding birds (Cheshire SBI Record, 1994).

VEG:
The pond is fringed with discontinuous stands of {\Typha latifolia, Glyceria maxima\} and {\Iris pseudacorus\}, which are succeeding to {\Salix\} spp. dominated scrub along the less accessible NE and NW sides. This scrub also contains frequent {\Prunus spinosa, Rubus fruticosus\} agg., and scattered {\Acer pseudoplatanus\} and {\Fraxinus excelsior\} trees. 

The more accessible SW and SE banks are mostly mown grassland, but along the waters edge, there is frequent {\Polygonum amphibia\}.  

The pond is used as a educational site by the local school and is well recorded (Cheshire SBI Record, 1994).

MANAGE:
The banks on the SW and SE sides are mown regularly. The scrub is relatively undisturbed. A small area of land on the eastern side of the pond is used as a car park.


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

VEG:
The broadleaved woodland occupies most of the area of the common. It is dominated by {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} (old coppiced trees, with a few mature standards), with frequent {\it Betula pendula}. There is an understorey of scattered {\it Ilex aquifolium, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. On the northern side (near the pond), the canopy is fringed with {\it Salix caprea}. In the central area of the wood, there are carpets of {\it Ranunculus ficaria\} and  {\it Hedera helix}, with frequent {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and occasional {\it Arum maculatum, Veronica chamaedrys} and {\it Dryopteris dilatata}. Towards the edges of the canopy, grasses predominate: {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Holcus mollis}, with frequent {\it Galium aparine} and scattered patches of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. 

The pond contains abundant {\it Callitriche} sp. and {\it Glyceria fluitans}, and a stand of {\it Iris pseudacorus}, about 4m wide. It is fringed with occasional {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Juncus effusus}, and dense stands of {\it Typha latifolia} (up to 6m wide), which appear to be colonizing the remaining area of open water. On the northern side of the pond, there is a small area of rank grassland dominated by {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}. 

In the NE corner of the common, there is a small area of tall ruderal vegetation dominated by {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Urtica dioica}, with frequent {\it Aegopodium podagraria, Anthriscus sylvestris, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Galium aparine}, plus occasional {\it Narcissus} sp., {\it Myosotis} sp. and {\it Symphytum x uplandicum}. A small amount of garden refuse has been dumped in this area.

MANAGE:
The common does not appear to be used for livestock grazing. The spread of {\it Typha latifolia} in the pond will have to be managed if any open water is to be retained.


FAUNA:
The folowing birds were noted: robin, tree sparrow.

VEG:
The dense scrub is dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra}, with locally frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., plus occasional {\it Rosa canina, Cytisus scoparius, Salix caprea, Ulex europaeus} and {\it Prunus spinosa}. There are also scattered young {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Ulmus glabra} trees (trunk diameters <10cm ACH).   

The ground flora is dominated by carpets of {\it Hedera helix} and {\it Mnium hornum}, with occasional {\it Digitalis purpurea, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Geum urbanum, Phyllitis scolopendrium, Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it D. filix-mas}. {\it Urtica dioica, Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Galium aparine} are frequent around the edges of the scrub, where there is also occasional {\it Reynoutria japonica}.

There are three small areas of short, poor semi-improved grassland  around the edges of the scrub.

MANAGE:
The areas of short, poor semi-improved grassland suggest that the common is subject to livestock grazing. The scrub is generally too dense to allow much penetration by livestock, and so in time, it would be expected to succeed to broadleaved woodland, by natural seeding of the tree species which are starting to colonize.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: lapwing, jackdaw.

VEG:
The eastern three quarters of the common is improved or poor semi-improved grassland with localized scattered scrub ({\it Crataegus monogyna}), and a peripheral area of species poor acidic {\it Juncus effusus} dominated marshy grassland along the northern boundary. The enclosure at SJ935679 is cut for hay, and has occasional {\it Rhinanthus minor} along the boundary walls. This suggests that it once contained a much more species rich grassland, which has been lost by improvement. Other enclosures in this section of the common are all sheep grazed.  

The most interesting area botanically is the enclosure at the western end of the common (SJ933678), through which an access track passes. It contains {\it Calluna vulgaris} dominated dry and wet heath (with frequent {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}), and marshy grassland dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Juncus effusus}. All three of these habitats contain frequent {\it Festuca rubra, Deschampsia flexuosa, Agrostis capillaris, Potentilla reptans, Galium saxatile\} and {\it Polytrichum commune}. The wet heath and marshy grassland also contain frequent {\it Anthoxanthum oderatum, Cynosurus cristatus, Cardamine pratensis, Sphagnum recurvum, S. palustre}, and {\it S. papillosum}, plus occasional {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Cirsium palustre} and {\it Aulocomnium palustre}. Along the track, there is frequent {\it Tussilago farfara} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys}, plus occasional {\it Salix} sp. and {\it Betula pendula} saplings (less than 1m high).       

The heath shows evidence of moderate sheep grazing. {\it Calluna vulgaris} cover is in the range 60 to 80 percent, height variable - mostly in the range 15 to 30cm.

MANAGE:
Used for sheep grazing, with some hay production. Most of the dry stone boundary and internal walls are not stock proof, and fencing has been erected along their length. Some new enclosures have been created with additional internal fencing.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: bluetit, tree sparrow.

VEG:
The woodland is dominated by mature standard {\it Quercus robur}, with frequent {\it Betula pendula} and {\it B. pubescens} (mature standards, with a few old coppiced trees), plus occasional {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. The canopy is generally quite open, allowing good light penetration. A track runs from the road to Free Green Farm, and this has been planted on each side with {\it Aesculus hippcastaneum} (now mature). The pond in the north half is ringed with mature {\it Alnus glutinosa}. Although the common does not appear to be regularly grazed, regeneration is poor - there are occasional, scattered saplings of the above species.  

The understorey consists of locally dense {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Ribes} sp., plus occasional, scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna}. {\it Salix caprea} is frequent around the edges of the pond.

Where the canopy is open, the ground flora is dominated by grasses ({\it Dactylis glomerata, Holcus mollis, H. lanatus} and {\it Poa} sp.) with scattered patches of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. (less than 50cm high). In shadier areas, there is abundant {\it Hedera helix}, with locally frequent {\it Ranunculus ficaria} and {\it Silene dioica}, plus occasional {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Narcissus} sp. (cultivated), {\it Teucrium scorodonia} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. The pond is fringed with occasional {\it Solanum dulcamara, Myosotis scorpioides} and {\it Iris pseudacorus}. It is heavily shaded at the E. end by a large Weeping willow.  Along the roadside, there is a narrow verge with abundant {\it Aegopodium podagraria} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris}, plus frequent {\it Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Alliaria petiolata}.

MANAGE:
The common is not enclosed by fencing along the road, and appears to be ungrazed. A few dead trees have been left standing, and it would be desirable for this practice to continue.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, robin.

VEG:
The hedges along the western an NE boundaries are discontinuous and up to 4m high and wide. They are dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna}, with occasional {\it Prunus spinosa, Salix} sp. and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Alnus glutinosa}. (young and mature trees). This common was viewed from the road on the southern side only.

MANAGE:
Managed as improved grassland. Cattle grazed at the time of survey.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chiffchaff, magpie, robin.

VEG:
The dense bracken is interspersed with patches of grassland (too small to map) dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} (with frequent {\it Potentilla erecta}), or {\it Holcus mollis}.

The scattered trees on the bracken are {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Malus} sp. (both spp. <5m high). The  young {\it Quercus robur} dominated woodland (trunk diameters <15cm ACH) is located in the S. half of the common; it is fringed with {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. scrub, with stands of {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Urtica dioica}, and frequent {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}. On the western boundary of the common, there is a dense {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominated hedge, which is 4 to 5m high and wide. The northern end of the largest section appears to have been disturbed by soil extraction, and this area is now covered with {\Chamerion angustifolium}.

The narrow strip of common land on the eastern side of the minor road is also covered with bracken. There are small patches of dense {\it Prunus spinosa} dominated scrub. 

The 1994 Cheshire SBI Record mentions {\it Carex ovalis} as being present on the main area of the common.

MANAGE:
No ongoing management apparent. Quercus robur dominated woodland would be expected to gradually spread across the common, by natural seeding of the trees already present. The 1994 Cheshire SBI Record mentions encroachment of an adjacent farm manure pile onto a corner of the common (this was not seen at the time of survey).


FAUNA:
THe following birds were noted: house sparrow, starling.

VEG:
The grassland contains distinct patches of rank {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} with occasional {\it Juncus inflexus}, but most of the sward is short and subject to regular grazing. There are scattered young {\it Quercus robur} trees (<6m high), and small patches of {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. scrub. There are scattered trees and {\it Salix} spp. scrub along the NW boundary.

A small area of mature {\it Alnus glutinosa} dominated woodland  has been recorded in previous surveys along the NW boundary. According to the Bradley Common Management Report (1991), it has a diverse ground flora which includes {\it Adoxa moschatellina, Anenome nemorosa, Cardamine pratensis, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Lamiastrum galeobdolon, Oxalis acetosella} and {\it Veronica montana}. It is perhaps due to the fact that the common was surveyed from the road only that this area of woodland was recorded as scattered trees and scrub in this survey.

MANAGE:
Subject to regular cattle grazing. An ancient grazing common according to the 1994 Cheshire SBI Record.                                                

This common was included in the Bradley Common Management Report, 1991. The report suggested that the alder woodland does not require any management in the immediate future, but that a programme of selective felling should be started to control scrub/tree encroachment on the rest of the common. The 1991 management report also relates to CL30; see the report for this common for further details.


FAUNA:
3 rabbits seen along the eastern boundary.

VEG:
The small area of semi-improved acidic grassland is situated at the western edge of the common, and is a continuation of the semi-improved acidic grassland in CL62. Also in this area, there is a small, but heavily grazed {\it Juncus effusus} dominated flush, with occasional {\it Cardamine pratensis, Cirsium palustre} and {\it Sphagnum palustre}. The rest of the common is poor semi-improved or improved grassland.

MANAGE:
Used for sheep grazing. The two internal enclosures are the most heavily grazed, and may have been re-seeded.


VEG:
The semi-improved acid grassland is dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca} sp., with scattered clumps of {\it Juncus effusus}, plus locally frequent {\it Holcus lanatus, Anthoxanthum oderatum, Cynosusrus cristatus, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Trifolium repens}. There is also occasional {\it Nardus stricta, Cirsium arvense} and {\it Polytrichum commune}. The sward is generally short (less than 5cm).

MANAGE:
Used for sheep grazing. The boundary between this common and CL76 is marked by boundary stones only, and so livestock have freedom of movement between the two. This common forms part of Cessbank Common, Rabb Clough and Hammerton Knowl grade B SBI. The 1994 Cheshire SBI Record describes the area as being lightly grazed. The area of Cessbank common now appears to be heavily grazed, and undergoing conversion to improved grassland, which has largely been achieved on the adjacent common (CL76).


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, magpie (on adjacent farmland), song thrush, wren.

VEG:
The woodland has developed in a disused quarry; the area of deepest excavation is in the central area of the common. It is dominated by (mostly mature standard) {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}, with occasional {\it Castanea sativa}, {\it Larix} sp. and {\it Pinus} sp. A few {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} trees have been coppiced (now mature). There is good regeneration of this species.

There is an understorey of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Rhododendron ponticum}.

In the central area of the common, the ground flora is dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. Elsewhere, there is locally abundant {\it Holcus mollis}, with locally frequent {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Silene dioica, Glechoma hederacea, Dryopteris dilatata, D. filix-mas} and {\it Mnium hornum}. There are two small ponds near the centre of the common, which contain abundant {\it Solanum dulcamara} and {\it Veronica beccabunga}, with occasional {\it Ranunculus sceleratus}.

MANAGE:
The common is fenced on all sides and appears to be ungrazed.


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

VEG:
The scattered clumps of trees and scrub are mostly too small to map. Species recorded include {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prununs spinosa, Prunus} sp., {\it Ilex aquifolium, Rosa} spp., {\it Ligustrum ovalifolium, Cytisus scoparius, Ulex europaeus, Rubus fruticosus} agg., and young {\it Pinus} sp., {\it Betula pubescens, B. pendula, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. The trees mostly have trunk diameters of less than 15cm at chest height. The ground flora around these scattered areas of scrub and trees is dominated by {\it Ranunculus repens} with frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Senecio jacobaea} and {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg., plus occasional {\it Lunaria annua}.

Along the eastern boundary, there are small areas of outcropping sandstone (too small to map) fringed with {\it Sedum acre} and {\it Polytrichum} sp.; there are also small areas of semi-improved acid grassland dominated by {\it Agrostis stolonifera} with frequent {\it Rumex acetosella, Hypochaeris radicata, Hieracium pilosella, Cardamine flexuosa} and {\it Achillea millefolium}, plus occasional {\it Geranium molle}.

MANAGE:
Grassed areas are managed as amenity grassland. The small areas of scrub (which appear to have been planted) provide pockets of cover for birds; in addition the {\it Prunus} spp. flowers look very attractive in spring. The limited planting of spring flowering ground flora species (eg. {\it Anenome nemorosa, Primula vulgaris, Hyacinthoides non-scripta}) within these small areas of scrub could add to the visual attractiveness of the site.


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

VEG:
The following information is from the 1994 Cheshire SBI Record: 

"This ancient grazing common supports one of the most extensive areas of unimproved grassland in lowland Cheshire. A varied geology, topography, drainage and management history has produced a mosaic of grassland types, with both dry and wet, acid and neutral grassland communities, with local flushes. Additional habitat diversity is provided by scrub, secondary oak woodland, alder woodland, hedges, ditches and ponds. Collectively these habitats support at least 170 species of higher flowering plants including a number that are locally uncommon, for example floating club-rush, mat-grass, heath-grass, adder's tongue fern, bog pimpernel, lousewort and water purslane".  

The common continues to be used for grazing (cattle and sheep). Two ponds were found in addition to the one shown on the OS map near the centre of the common. All three contain abundant {\it Ranunculus} sp. (water crowfoot). The largest (northern) pond is fringed with abundant {\it Eleocharis palustris} and frequent {\it Caltha palustris}. It appears to be closed to livestock. {\it Pedicularis sylvatica, Cardamine pratensis} and {\it Centaurea nigra} were found in {\it Juncus effusus} dominated grassland near the central pond, as well as occasional {\it Cirsium palustre} and {\it Senecio aquaticus}.  

Accross the northern half of the common, there are patches of dense and  scattered {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub. The hedges along the CL boundary are dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna}, with locally frequent {\it U. europaeus}. On the western side, there are mature {\it Quercus robur} trees.

MANAGE:
Grazing on the common is regulated by a management committee (1994 Cheshire SBI Record). 
"Grazing rights are still exercised, but in a regulated manner between April and October. Apart from routine hedge and ditch maintenance, little or no other managemenrt of the common takes place"  - Bradley Common Management Report, 1991. This report makes several management suggestions, which briefly, include (1) retention of the existing areas of grassland and their species diversity, (2) monitoring of scrub/tree encroachement, control by selective felling if necessary, (3) dredging, removal of overhanging vegetation and rubbish in the ponds where required, (4) planting trees (to grow to maturity) and shrubs (where gaps occur) along the some of the hedgerows.  

The 1991 management report is also relevant to CL66 (refer to the report for this common for further details).

In the early 1980s, one the right holders gained consent from the Secretary of State for the Environment to erect fencing, 2 unlocked gates, a cattle grid and a stile.


FAUNA:
Four Small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen, also the following birds: chiffchaff, house sparrow, chaffinch, blackbird, robin, blue tit, songthrush, starling, feral pigeon and wood pigeon.

According to the 1994 SBI Record, the site is particularly good for butterflies and insects.

VEG:
The western half of the largest section of the common contains a mosaic of of broadleaved woodland, dense and scattered scrub, acidic grassland, dry heath and bare sand.   

The woodland is a mixture of young {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula} spp., with occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. There is good regeneration, especially of {\it Betula} spp., and dense stands of saplings fringe areas of woodland. There is an acidic ground flora dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, with scattered patches of {\it Calluna vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus, Holcus mollis, Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., with occasional {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Conopodium majus, Chamerion angustifolium, Urtica dioica, Ribes sp., Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Molinia caerulea, Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Dryopteris dilatata}.       

The scrub is mostly dominated by {\it Ulex europaeus}, with occasional {\it Salix} spp. It is interspersed with patches of dry heath (mature {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}), rank acid grassland ({\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Agrostis capillaris, Festuca} sp.), {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and bare sand. The bare sand is a result of past sand workings; frequent trampling by visitors prevents re-vegetation. The largest remaining area is about 100m wide and situated near the middle of this section of the common.    

Most of the eastern half of this largest section of the common is amenity grassland, but towards the north-east corner, the sward contains frequent {\it Calluna vulgaris, Agrostis} sp., {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Festuca} sp. and {\it Luzula campestris} (recorded as D5, dry heath/acid grassland mosaic on the map). At a distance, this part is indistinguishable from the rest of the mown sward because it is so closely cut. There is obvious scope for allowing a small area of {\it Calluna vulgaris} dominated heath to develop in this area by relaxing the mowing regime.   

Along the edges of this section of the common, and the two southern sections sections (S. of Northwich Road), there are lines of mature standard {\it Tilia europaea} with occasional {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. The grassland in the two southern sections has been recorded as poor semi-improved (B6).

The remaining three smallest sections of the common are narrow strips of amenity grassland (with a line of mature {\it Quercus robur} trees) in front of residential properties on the western side of Ladies Mile.

MANAGE:
The {\it Betula} spp. saplings and {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub appear to be spreading on to the small remaining areas of {\it C. vulgaris} dominated dry heath, and some management will be required if the dry heath is to be retained. Mowing in the north eastern half of the main section should be relaxed to allow regeneration of {\it C. vulgaris} dominated dry heath (see vegetation section, para. 4).


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chiffchaff, moorhen (in a pond, N. half of common), robin, songthrush.

VEG:
The canopy is a mixture of {\it Quercus robur, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Betula pubescens}, with occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Sorbus aucuparia, Malus} sp. and {\it Prunus} sp. Most of the trees are mature standards; there are a few old coppiced trees. The pond sites are ringed with mature standard {\it Alnus glutinosa}. There is good regeneration of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Betula pendula} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. Dead {\it Betula pubescens} trees have been left in situ, and these support the Birch polypore fungus ({\it Piptoporus betulinus}).

The understorey consists of locally dense {\it Ilex aquifolium}, with  scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra}, plus occasional {\it Viburnum opulus}. As well as {\it Alnus glutinosa}, the pond sites are surrounded by {\it Salix} spp. scrub.  

Ground flora species recorded include locally abundant {\it Hedera helix} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. (<50cm high), with locally frequent {\it Silene dioica, Digitalis purpurea, Lonicera periclymenum, Dryopteris dilata} and {\it Mnium hornum}, plus occasional {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Symphytum x uplandicum, Juncus effusus} and {\it Dryopteris filix-mas}. Those pond sites still containing water are fringed with frequent {\it Solanum dulcamara}, plus occasional {\it Iris pseudacorus, Cardamine pratensis, Juncus effusus} and {\it Carex remota}. There is an open area in the canopy at the southern end of the common, where {\it Urtica dioica} is dominant.

Cultivated {\it Narcissus} sp. have been planted along the road on the eastern side of the wood. There is also frequent {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Urtica dioica, Alliaria petiolata, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}.

MANAGE:
This common does not appear to be subject to regular livestock grazing. It would be desirable to continue to leave deadwood in situ. Some dumping of domestic appliances and furniture has occurred at the southern end, near the roadside.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, robin, song thrush.

VEG:
The woodland is dominated by mature {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} (some coppiced), with locally frequent {\it Alnus glutinosa}, plus occasional {\it Salix fragilis} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Salix fragilis} are concentrated around large, shallow depressions (created by mineral extraction) in the northern half of the common. The ground in these areas is saturated, no standing water was seen. There is good regeneration of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Betula} sp.; there are frequent stands of young saplings.

The understorey is composed of occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Rosa} sp., {\it Ribes} sp. and {\it Viburnum opulus}.

The ground flora in the depressions is dominated by {\it Solanaum dulcamara}, with occasional {\it Cirsium palustre, Angelica sylvestris} and {\it Juncus effusus}. Elsewhere, there is locally frequent {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Stellaria holostea, Silene dioica, Conopodium majus, Chamerion angustifolium, Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Dryopteris dilatata}, plus occasional {\it Geum urbanum, Oxalis acetosella, Montia sibirica,  Carex sylvatica,  Narcissus} sp. (cultivated), {\it Crocus} sp. (cultivated) and {\it Athyrium filix-femina}.

MANAGE:
The woodland is not subject to regular livestock grazing, and there is no evidence of  regular felling or coppicing. Some standing and fallen dead trees have been left in situ, and it would be desirable for this practice to continue.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: robin, blue tit.

VEG:
The woodland is mostly dominated by {\it Betula} sp., with locally frequent {\it Quercus robur} (southern end), {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}, plus occasional {\it Malus} sp. and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. One of the {\it Quercus robur} trees is at least 300 years old (1994 Cheshire SBI Record). Most of the trees are standards; a few are old coppice trees. There is good regeneration of {\it Betula} sp., {\it Quercus robur, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Sorbs aucuparia}. Some dead {\it Betula} sp. trees have been left in situ, and these support the birch polypore fungus ({\it Piptoporus betulinus}). 

The understorey is composed of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra}, with locally abundant {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. 

The ground flora is dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} in the northern half of the common, which forms dense stands on the slope (below the track shown on the map), and extends almost  to the northern edge of the canopy. Elsewhere, there is locally abundant {\it Hedera helix, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Geranium robertianum} and {\it Ranunculus repens}, with locally frequent {\it Alliaria petiolata, Ranunculus ficaria, Mercurialis perennis, Geum urbanum, Galium aparine} and {\it Circaea lutetiana}, plus occasional {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Allium ursinum}.

The pond near the picnic area at the northern end of the common has been created using a liner. It contains frequent {\it Callitriche} sp. and {\it Ranunculus omniophyllus}, and is fringed with stands of {\it Sparganium erectum} and {\it Glyceria maxima}, with frequent {\it Caltha palustris} and {\it Cardamine pratensis}, plus occasional {\it Juncus effusus, Iris pseudacorus, Ranunculus sceleratus} and {\it Myosotis scorpioides}.

MANAGE:
The largest section of the common is managed by Cheshire County Council Ranger Service, who are responsible for tree planting, creating the pond at the northern end of the common and maintaining the car parks and picnic areas. It would be desirable to continue the practice of leaving standing and fallen dead wood in situ.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chiffchaff, blackbird, blue tit, robin, starling, magpie (the last two on adjacent farmland).

VEG:
The wooded areas are a mixture of (mostly mature standard) {\it Quecus robur, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Betula pubescens}, with locally frequent {\it Fagus sylvatica} plus occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Alnus glutinosa}. Some {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} has been coppiced (now mature). There is good recent regeneration of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Betula pubescens} - there are scattered, dense stands of young saplings.  

The understorey is composed of locally dense {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Prunus spinosa}, with occasional, scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Corylus avellana}. The pond sites shown on the map are fringed with {\it Salix} spp.

There are scattered stands of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} in largest area of woodland, elsewhere, there is locally abundant {\it Hedera helix, Glechoma hederacea, Mercurialis perennis}, and {\it Ranunculus ficaria}, with locally frequent {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Geranium robertianum, Silene dioica, Primula vulgaris and {\it Lamium album}, plus occasional {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum, Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it Athyrium filix-femina}. Only the northern-most pond site contains standing water; it is fringed with occasional {\it Solanum dulcamara, Glyceria fluitans, Angelica sylvestris} and {\it Carex remota}. 

Most of the remainder of the common (N. and W. of the Village Hall) is mown grassland, tall herb ({\it Urtica dioica}) or scrub ({\it Salix} spp., {\it Crataegus monogyna}). The small area of grassland adjacent to the Village Hall (SJ486509) is notable for the presence of {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii} (10 flower spikes seen) and frequent {\it Primula veris}.

MANAGE:
There is no evidence of regular grazing in the wooded parts of the common. No deadwood was seen, it would be desirable to leave this in situ if possible. Most of the northern part of the common is managed as enclosed amenity grassland (see public access section).

It would be desirable to retain the botanical interest in the grassland adjacent to the Village Hall. The use of herbicides, fertilizers, frequent mowing, or re-seeding on this area should be avoided.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, chiffchaff, robin.

What appears to be a fox hole (judging by well defined tracks) was found in the woodland on the southern side of the road.

VEG:
The woodland on the southern side of the road is dominated by {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, with occasional {\it Quercus robur}. A few {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} trees have been coppiced (now mature). There is good recent regeneration of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. 

There is an understorey of scattered {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}, with occasional {\it Rosa} sp., {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. 

The ground flora is dominated by {\it Hedera helix}, with locally frequent {\it Hyacinthiodes non-scripta, Ranunculus ficaria, Silene dioica, Geranium robertianum, Stachys sylvatica, Galium aparine, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Dryopteris filix-mas}, plus occasional {\it Arum maculatum, Geum urbanum, Stellaria holostea, S. alsine} and {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum}. 

The strip of common land on the northern side of the road supports dense and scattered srub ({\it Salix caprea, Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana}), with small patches of tall herb vegetation ({\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Heracleum sphondylium, Chamerion angustifolium, Urtica dioica}) and rank grassland ({\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus lanatus, Alopecurus pratensis, Potentilla anserina, P. reptans}). There are also occasional mature {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees on this part of the common.

MANAGE:
No ongoing management apparent, apart from mowing of the roadside verges opposite Ryders Bank Cottages and some hedge trimming. Does not appear to be subject to livestock grazing.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: House sparrow, blackbird.

VEG:
{\it Acer psedoplatanus, Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia} trees have been planted in lines 3 to 10m from the boundaries (except the NW boundary). Their trunk diameters are now in the range 5 to 15cm ACH.  A small triangle of trees (same species as above) has been planted at the southern end. Along the NW boundary, there is a line of mature {\it Populus} sp. trees (trunk diameters 40 to 60cm ACH).

The track which runs along the SE boundary from Baronet farm is now grassed over and used as part of the common. A discontinuous, overtrimmed {\it Crataegus monogyna} hedge marks the actual common land boundary along the track. Use of herbicides has killed the ground flora, except for occasional {\it Lamium purpureum}. A continuous {\it Crataegus monogyna} hedge (about 2m high) runs along the NE boundary, very little ground flora was seen.

A small pond showm on the NE boundary on the OS 1:2500 map has been infilled.

MANAGE:
Bearing in mind the present use of the common, the opportunities for improving it for wildife are limited. Some improvement could be made by less intensive management of the remaining hedgerows (eg not using herbicides, less frequent mowing under the hedge) and small area of young broadleaved plantation at the southern end. Planting scrub species such as {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it C. monogyna} around parts of the plantation would improve cover for birds and be visually attractive in spring.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: robin, wren.

VEG:
Internal fencing encloses the arable field (a {\it Lolium perenne ley}) along its northern and western edges. The woodland on the northern edge of the field is dominated by {\it Betula} sp., with abundant {\it Alnus glutinosa} and occasional {\it Quercus robur} towards its northern end. The trees have a spindly appearance, and stand in ground which is mostly saturated, with frequent pools of standing water. Trunk diameters are in the range 4 to 12cm ACH. 

The ground flora is dominated by {\it Solanum dulcamara}, which forms an almost continuous cover. There is also locally abundant {\it Galium palustre}, with occasional {\it Epilobium hirsutum, Ranunculus sceleratus} and {\it Juncus effusus}.

The western side of the woodland is fringed with {\it Salix caprea} and {\it S. cinerea}. These species extend southwards along a ditch, forming a narrow strip of scrub between the CL boundary and the arable field. There are also scattered {\it Alnus glutinosa} trees here, and stands of {\it Typha latifolia}, with occasional {\it Epilobium hirsutum}. 

A trimmed {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominated hedge runs along the eastern boundary of the common (along the road).

MANAGE:
The woodland looks as if it is ungrazed during the winter; the ground would be too wet for livestock. The name and situation of the site suggest that it may have once been an area of raised mire (possibly developing in a shallow depression) before colonisation by birch and alder, and partial conversion to arable land.


FAUNA:
The following is an extract from the SSSI citation:

"The entomological interest of the site is high. Among the larger moths and butterflies are eight species which have a limited distribution in Cheshire. The smaller moths and butterflies are known as microlepidoptera. Over 250 of microlepidoptera have been recorded and five are found nowhere else in the county."

The common is on the Invertebrate Site Register; the entry includes records (dated 1980) for two uncommon dragonflies, the black darter ({\it Sympetrum danae}) and the four spotted chaser ({\it Libellula quadrimaculata})."

At the time of survey, the following birds were noted: song thrush, blackbird, chiffchaff, robin, blue tit, woodpigeon.

VEG:
Only a very limited field survey was carried out (see last paragraph)  using binoculars, from a track which roughly runs around the edge of the area designated as a SSSI. The following information is an extract from the SSSI citation:

"Flaxmere Moss is a small peatland site which has been formed by the gradual infilling of a lake with bog vegetation. No open water now persists although some peat cuttings near the centre of the site have become water filled. The middle of the site is unconsolidated and a schwingmoor remains although it has been modified by peat cutting and drainage. The bog vegetation grades into wet heath and birch {\it Betula pendula} and oak {\it Quercus robur} woodland.

The wetter areas of the site are dominated by bog mosses ({\it Sphagnum} spp.) and cotton grass ({\it Eriophorum angustifolium}). In drier parts hare's-tail cotton grass ({\it Eriophorum vaginatum}), purple moor-grass ({\it Molinia caerulea}), cross-leaved heath ({\Erica tetralix}), cranberry ({\it Vaccinium oxycoccus}), sundew ({\it Drosera rotundifolia}), marsh cinquefoil ({\it Potentilla palustris}) and the nationally rare bog rosemary ({\it Andromeda polifolia}) occur. The mire vegetation grades into dry heath dominated by heather ({\it Calluna vulgaris}) and bilberry ({\it Vaccinium myrtillus}).

This is the most important site in the county for the study of the history of the Cheshire flora from the pollen record preserved in the peat. This pollen record extends back to the late glacial period and provides the most complete record for the appearance and disappearance of Rannoch rush ({\it Scheuchzeria palustris}) of any British site." 

During the field survey, the following species were also noted in the woodland surrounding the site: {\it Betula pubescens, Quercus petraea, Pinus sp., Salix caprea, Crataegus monogyna, Rubus fruticosus agg., Deschampsia cespitosa, Urtica dioica} and {\it Juncus effusus} (all locally frequent).

There are scattered {\it Betula} spp. saplings (<1.5m high) on the wet heath, which are situated up to 60m away from the surrounding woodland.

MANAGE:
Parts of the raised bog were once cut for peat; this was non-commercial extraction by individual commoners, using hand tools. It is uncertain if this practice will resume. Fluctuations in the water table have occurred over the years due to limited drainage works.

The spread of {\it Betula} spp. onto the wet heath (and eventually the raised bog) could be a threat to these habitats. Some control will be required in the near future, while the invasive trees are young and removal could be achieved without creating too much disturbance, and at a lower cost than removal of more established trees.


FAUNA:
Six emperor and four small tortoiseshell butterflies were noted, also the following birds: mallard, coot, moorhen, black headed gull, jackdaw, magpie, cuckoo, song thrush, blue tit, chaffinch, house sparrow.

VEG:
The Mere is fringed with discontinuous stands of {\it Phragmites australis} on its southern side, and part of its northern side (in CL 110). These extend for up to about 25m from the waters edge. In adjacent ungrazed fields, they extend up the bank for about 15m. Where the adjacent land is cattle grazed improved pasture, the bank is heavily poached. Other species recorded along the waters edge on the southern side include locally frequent {\it Caltha palustris, Veronica beccabunga, Ranunculus flammula, Cardamine pratensis, Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Juncus effusus} plus occasional {\it Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Carex riparia}. Along the northern edge of the mere (viewed through binoculars), there is a belt of {\it Salix} spp. scrub (5 to 30m wide) interspersed with {\it Alnus glutinosa}, which borders arable fields to the north.   

Marginal vegetation is comparitively sparse (or absent) at the eastern end of the mere, probably due to disturbance caused by regular boating activities (see public access and management sections).

{\it Calamagrostis canescens, Potamogeton perfoliatus} and {\it Butomus umbellatus} are recorded as being present in the 1994 Cheshire SBI Record. 

Pick Mere was formerly a SSSI, but it was denotified following the England Field Unit Meres Survey (1981), which concluded that it was one of the poorest quality meres. Deterioration in its scientific interest has been caused by intensive recreational use.

MANAGE:
The frequent use of the mere for motorised boating activities is probably partially responsible for its deterioration from SSSI quality. It would be desirable to concentrate recreational use in the eastern part of the mere (ie in the area of CL38) to reduce disturbance to marginal vegetation and associated wildlife in the areas of CL110, 111 and 112.

The mere is recorded as being mesotrophic in the 1994 SBI Record. It is possible that runoff containing fertilizers from the surrounding arable and improved fields will cause the mere to become eutrophic.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, blue tit, house sparrow, song thrush, magpie, chiffchaff, chaffinch. Numerous common frogs were seen in the pond at SJ619480. Several holes (possibly the entrances to a badger sett) about 30 to 40cm wide with large piles of excavated sand were seen in section 1 at SJ621480. The tracks were indistinct, but too large to have been made by rabbits. 

An extract from the SSSI citation is reproduced below for reference:

"The wide range of habitats present on the site are known to support a diverse invertebrate fauna including a number of national and county rarities. Of particular significance is the presence of the pond snail ({\it Lymnaea glabra})* and the water beetle ({\it Enochrus isotae})**, both of which are rare nationally. The diving beetle ({\it Hygrotus decoratus}) and caseless caddisfly ({\it Holocentropus stagnalis}), both of local significance, are also associated with the ponds. The fact that heathland itself is now so rare in Cheshire means that this site is an important refuge for heathland dependent species.

Fifteen species of dragonfly and damselfly have been seen over the site, including the first Cheshire record for the migrant hawker ({\it Aeshna mixta}). Breeding is confirmed in 10 species, including the ruddy darter ({\it Sympetrum sanguineum}) and broad-bodied chaser ({\it Libellula depressa}). Open heath/grassland areas support a breeding colony of the small heath butterfly ({\it Coenonympha pamphilus}).

The diversity of habitats also attracts a wide selection of birds to the site, many breeding there, sparrowhawk ({\it Accipter nisus}) and willow tit ({\it Parus montanus}) being of local significance.

The sparcity of heathland in lowland Cheshire makes this site an important local refuge for the common lizard (\it Lacerata vivapara})." 

*Red Data Book 2
**RDB3, provisional.

VEG:
The southern-most section of the common (No.1 - see map 2) contains areas of broadleaved woodland, scrub, wet heath, acid grassland and a pond. The broadleaved woodland largely appears to be unmanaged. It is dominated by {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus robur} with a fairly open understorey of scattered {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}, with locally abundant {\it Salix} spp. in shallow depressions (where the soil is moist, but not saturated), and occasional {\it Sambucus nigra}. The ground is mostly covered with a thick layer of leaf litter interspersed with patches of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Hedera helix, Geranium robertianum, Urtica dioica, Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Holcus mollis}, with locally frequent {\it Dryopteris dilatata} plus occasional {\it Alliaria petiolata, Galanthus} sp. and {\it Narcissus} sp. (cultivated). At the western end of this section (SJ618480), the woodland contains much fallen and partially standing deadwood with a {\it Salix} spp. dominated understorey. This area is 1 to 1.5m lower than the surrounding roads and tracks. 
 
There are two areas of wet heath (SJ620480) in this section, separated by a very narrow belt of woodland and scrub. The eastern area of wet heath contains short {\it Molinia caerulea} with frequent {\it Ulex gallii} (mostly 10 to 30cm high), {\it Erica tetralix, Calluna vulgaris, Nardus stricta} and {\it Galium saxatile}. The {\it Erica} and {\it Calluna} generally have a wiry appearance and look as if they have been grazed. Overall cover of dwarf shrubs is in the range 40 to 60 per cent. There is scattered {\it Ulex europaeus} around the edges of the heath; an attempt has been made to burn it. In the western area of wet heath, although 1 tethered sheep was seen, the condition of the {\it Molinia} and dwarf shrubs ({\it Erica tetralix, Calluna vulgaris}) suggests recent heavy grazing by freely moving livestock. Overall cover of dwarf shrub species is about 30 per cent. At its southern end, this area of heath grades into poor semi-improved grassland (B6) and amenity grassland with scattered, mature {\it Betula} sp. trees. This gives an open southerly aspect to the adjacent pond (SJ619480). The southern and western edges of the pond appear to be used frequently by fishermen; the water here is fringed with occasional {\it Veronica beccabunga, Ranunculus flammula, Glyceria} sp. (possibly {\it G. declinata}) and {\it Cirsium palustre}. The less accessible northern and eastern edges are fringed with {\it Salix} spp. scrub which overhangs the water and discontinuous stands of {\it Typha latifolia}. Some refuse has accumulated along the eastern bank.  

A small clearing is located near the eastern end of this section (SJ622479); it contains acid grassland (B11) dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} with frequent {\it Galium saxatile, Rumex acetosella} and {\it Juncus squarrosus}, plus occasional {\it Calluna vulgaris,  Luzula campestris} and {\it Molinia caerulea}, and scattered {\it Ulex europaeus}. The small car park at the eastern end of the section (SJ623479) is separated from the woodland by an area of rank grassland dominated by {\it Dactylis glomerata, Poa} spp. and {\it Holcus lanatus}.  

Section 2 (SJ619481) contains woodland with a similar composition to that described above for section 1. A small cleared area towards the W. end has been colonized by {\it Ulex europaeus}, with occasional {\it Ribes} sp. There is abundant {\it Alliaria petiolata} along the roadsides and occasional {\it Chamerion angustifolium}.

Section 3 (SJ622480) contains broadleaved woodland (with a generally similar composition to that described above for section 1), fringed on its northern side with {\it Salix} spp. scrub which adjoins an area of short improved grassland (B4) in the eastern half of the section. Along the northern boundary, there is a small area of {\it Alnus glutinosa} dominated woodland (standard trees) which was flooded at the time of survey. In the western half of the section, there is a clearing which contains very uneven ground (hillocks upto 1.5m high) that supports a mixture of {\it Holcus} spp., {\it Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius}, {\it Poa} spp., {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Urtica dioica}, with frequent patches of {\it Ranunculus ficaria, Epilobium} sp., {\it Galium aparine} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., plus occassional {\it Arum maculatum, Galanthus} sp., {\it Mercurialis perennis, Sanicula europaea} and {\it Narcissus} sp. (cultivated). The clearing has been partly planted with {\it Alnus glutinosa} saplings (trunk diameters less than 3cm at chest height). 

The woodland in section 4 (SJ624481) also has a broadly similar composition to that described above for section 1. Additional species noted include locally frequent {\it Conopodium majus, Veronica chamaedrys, Alliaria petiolata, Galanthus} sp. and {\it Vinca minor}, plus occasional {\it Ribes} sp., {\it Narcissus} sp. (cultivated), {\it Delphinium} sp. (cultivated) and {\it Reynoutria japonica} (SE corner). The 1986 SSSI habitat map shows a small clearing containing heathland in the western end of this section (SJ623481). This has been invaded by {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Ulex europaeus}; some spindly, mature {\it Calluna vulgaris} plants remain in the ground flora, with scattered tufts of {\it Molinia}. The pond in the eastern half this section (SJ624481) is much more secluded than the pond in section 1 (SJ619480). It contains abundant {\it Hottonia palustris}, and a stand of very tall (up to 2.5m) {\it Typha latifolia} at the southern end. Around the waters edge, there is occasional {\it Myosotis scorpioides} and {\it Mentha aquatica}. The pond is surrounded by {\it Salix} spp. (which frequently overhang the water) and woodland. 

Approximately 64 per cent of the area of the common is a designated SSSI and LNR (see map 2). An extract from the SSSI citation is reproduced below for reference:  

"The damp heathland is dominated by heather ({\it Calluna vulgaris}), cross-leaved heath ({\it Erica tetralix}), and purple moor-grass ({\it Molinia caerulea}) with gorse ({\it Ulex europaeus}) and the less common western gorse ({\it Ulex gallii}). This community supports several of Cheshire's rare plants including round-leaved sundew ({\it Drosera rotundifolia}), lousewort ({\it Pedicularis sylvatica}) and bog asphodel ({\it Narthecium ossifragum}). Several areas of bogmoss ({\it Sphagnum\} spp.) occur together with cushions of the moss ({\it Leucobryum glaucum}) which is also rare in Cheshire. Drier areas contain less ({\it E. tetralix}) and are locally more grassy with mat-grass {\it Nardus sricta} wavy hair-grass ({\it Deschampsia flexuosa}) and another county rarity, bird's foot ({\it Ornithopus perpusillus}).

The pools, many of which are only seasonal, occur in open and shady parts of the site. They provide suitable habitats for a diverse selection of emergent plants, many of which are uncommon in Cheshire: marsh pennywort ({\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris}), bogbean ({\it Menyanthes trifoliata}), greater spearwort ({\it Ranunculus lingua}), marsh violet ({\it Viola palustris}), marsh cinquefoil ({\it Potentilla palustris}), floating club-rush ({\it Eleogiton fluitans}), water violet ({\it Hottonia palustris}) and the rare bog St John's-wort ({\it Hypericum elodes}), which was thought to be extinct in Cheshire. 

The heath's scrub and woodland is secondary in origin and mainly composed of oak ({\it Quercus robur}), silver birch ({\it Betula pendula}), alder ({\it Alnus glutinosa}) and ({\it Salix}) spp. Its development has taken place largely over the last 40 years although the presence of a number of mature trees, especially oak, suggest a longer history of trees on parts of the site. Bramble ({\it Rubus fruticosus}) dominates the understorey, although marsh cinquefoil is abundant in wetter hollows."

MANAGE:
It is not possible to make detailed management suggestions on the basis of a short survey, but the following points may be of interest:
1)Woodland. It would be desirable to maintain the practice of leaving standing and fallen deadwood in situ. 
2)Heathland. The western area of wet heath at SJ620480 looks as if it is has been heavily grazed. Management of grazing in such a way as to achieve adequate dwarf shrub regeneration and limitation of scrub encroachment would be desirable. The spread of {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub on the  heathland may need to be controlled by selective clearing in the long term; some attempts at limited burning have been made. 
3)Ponds. It would be desirable to remove refuse on the eastern bank of the pond at SJ619480 and prevent further accumulation. The existing areas of Salix spp. scrub on the northern and eastern sides should be retained as they provide cover for birds and small mammals. Control of the spread of {\it Typha latifolia} may be required in the long term. The 1:2500 Ordnance Survey map shows two small ponds in section 4 (SJ624481, on the western side of the farm access track). These are now  depressions containing a thick layer of leaf litter; one contained a pool of shallow water (only 3m wide, with no aquatic or marginal vegetation). Removal of encroaching trees ({\it Betula} sp., {\it Quercus robur}) will be required if these small pond sites are to be retained.   

There is a provisional management plan for the common (source English Nature files), its main points are:

1)Prevention of scrub/woodland encroachment onto existing areas of heathland.
2)Re-instatement of heathland where possible by tree and scrub removal.
3)Introduction of localized coppicing in established areas of woodland, and maintenance of existing areas of coppice.
4)Maintenance of some open water on existing ponds
5)Possible introduction of limited horse or cattle grazing in the central area of the common during the summer
6)Screening of the car park by tree planting. 
7)In general - to maintain a mosaic of grassland/heathland/scrub/woodland habitats.

Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council made an application for Countryside Stewardship in 1991 to obtain funds to carry out some of the work suggested above.

A more detailed management plan for the ponds was produced by Pond Action (School of Biological and Molecular Sciences, Oxford Polytechnic) in 1991. It stressed the importance of conserving the rare (RDB2) fresh water mollusc {\it Lymnaea glabra} and of establishing a programme to monitor the progress of management.

The northern section of the common (No. 3, SJ619481) has been grazed occasionaly by tethered goats.


FAUNA:
The folowing bird species were noted: robin, tree sparrow, chiffchaff.

VEG:
A mixed alder/birch woodland was visible from the public footpath; some of the nearby birch trees looked as if they had been coppiced. All of the area visible was partly submerged, the water depth near the path was 20 to 30cm. Stands of {\it Caltha palustris} were visible around tree trunks in the distance (viewed with binoculars), with clumps of {\it Carex} sp. (looks like {\it C. riparia}). Other species noted (within 10m of the footpath): {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Sorbus aucuparia, Salix cinerea, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Juncus effusus, Carex remota, Solanum dulcamara, Filipendula ulmaria, Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it Athyrium filix-femina}. No other on-site survey was carried out. The map above is based on the SSSI habitat map produced by English Nature. 

According to the 1992 Gleads Moss Monitoring Report (produced by English Nature), the woodland can be classified in NVC terms as {\it Alnus glutinosa - Carex paniculata} woodland (W5), "a community that typically develops over thin peat". In the western side, there are small areas with a high {\it Sphagnum} cover in the ground flora under a mixed canopy of {\it Betula pubescens, Salix cinerea} and {\it Alnus} (NVC  W4c {\it Betula pubescens - Molinia caerulea} woodland, {\it Sphagnum} sub-community). These small areas are more acidic and may have developed over a thicker peat layer. The eastern side of the wood is "generally drier with more {\it Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior}, and {\it Ilex aquifolium}, particularly along the raised bank marked on the map. There is quite a lot of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} regeneration in this area." 

To the north of the main area of woodland, there is a narrow strip of acidic marshy grassland which has been without active management for several years. This has been classified in the 1992 Gleads Moss Monitoring Report as a mixture of {\it Juncus effusus/acutiflorus - Galium palustre} rush pasture, {\it Juncus effusus} sub-community (NVC M23b) and {\it Molinia caerulea-Potentilla erecta} mire (NVC M25), with {\it Molinia} dominant in the eastern part and {\it Juncus effusus} in the west. The overall species diversity is low according to the report, and there is probably not enough interest to justify preventing this area from scrubbing over. The section of the common to the north (which is outside the SSSI boundary) was once marshy grassland; this was lost by incorporation into the surrounding improved field. 

An extract from the SSSI citation is reproduced below for reference: 

"Gleads Moss is an example of a moss which has developed almost completely into fen and alder carr. A small area of bog remains on the western edge of the site and a narrow fringe of acidic marshy grassland is included along the noerthern edge of the woodland. Most of the woodland is wet and dominated by alder ({\it Alnus glutinosa}), birch ({\it Betula pendula}) and grey willow ({\it Salix cinerea}). Oak ({\it Quercus robur}), rowan ({\it Sorbus aucuparia}) and alder buckthorn ({\it Frangula alnus}) which is uncommon in Cheshire are also present. The rich ground flora contains many typical fen species, including sedges ({\it Carex curta, C. paniculata} and {\it C. remota}), meadowsweet ({\it Filipendula ulmaria}), soft rush ({\it Juncus effusus}), water mint ({\it Mentha aquatica}), bogbean ({\it Menyanthes trifoliata}) and bittersweet ({\it Solanum dulcamara}). Among the more uncommon species present are greater spearwort ({\it Ranunculus lingua}), saw sedge ({\it Cladium mariscus}) and marsh cinquefoil ({\it Potentilla palustris}).

The bog vegetation is dominated by bog mosses ({\it Sphagnum} spp.). Purple moor-grass ({\it Molinia caerulea}), marsh cinquefoil, soft rush and scattered grey willow also occur in this area."

MANAGE:
The common is partly drained by ditches running along the southern and western boundaries. A possible long term threat to the existing woodland community in the eastern half of the common is the spread of Sycamore. English Nature have recommended that its distribution should be monitored. 

An area of fen meadow in an adjoining field to the north west of the common may be incorporated into the SSSI in future.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, blue tit, great tit, chaffinch, chiffchaff, house sparrow, magpie, pied wagtail, robin, starling, swallow. 

The survey was carried out on a warm spring day and the {\it Prunus spinosa}, in full flower in some of the more scrubby hedgerows, was attracting numerous insects including bees, wasps, hoverflies, peacock and small tortoiseshell butterflies.

VEG:
As the land is used for intensive arable agriculture, with some improved pasture (cattle grazed), the most ecologically interesting features are confined to the field boundary hedgerows. The condition of these is very variable - those along the roads are mostly trimmed and continuous, whilst those between fields are generally discontinuous and scrubby. The best hedgerows of this type were up to 4m high and 6m wide - almost a thin line of dense scrub. The species composition is also very variable; some sections are almost pure {\it Crataegus monogyna}, while more diverse sections also contain frequent {\it Prunus spinosa, Rosa} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., plus occasional {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Prunus avium} and mature standard {\it Quercus robur}. Some hedgerows along drainage ditches also contain occasional {\it Salix caprea, S. fragilis} and {\it Alnus glutinosa}.    

Where the ground is affected frequently (by agricultural operations) along the edge of the hedgerow, the flora is generally dominated by {\it Urtica dioica}, with frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Lolium perenne, Poa} spp., {\it Galium aparine}, and {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. {\it Alliaria petiolata, Anthriscus sylvestris, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Stellaria holostea} are frequent in less disturbed areas. Under the canopy of some of the wider hedgerows, there is a ground flora more typical of woodland: frequent {\it Hedera helix, Mercurialis perennis, Ranunculus ficaria} and {\it Silene dioica}, plus occasional {\it Arum maculatum}. Patches of {\it Adoxa moschatellina}, with occasional {\it Primula vulgaris} were found under a line of {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Salix fragilis} trees along the boundary stream at SJ646561.  

Along Old Pool Hall Lane (SJ650560 to SJ653564), there is a narrow strip of broadleaved woodland which may have been planted originally as a shelter belt. It is dominated by mature standard {\it Quercus robur}, with occasional {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior, Salix fragilis} and {\it Ulmus glabra}. There is some regeneration of all these species (scattered seedlings and/or splindly saplings and semi-mature trees). The understorey is composed of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna}, with occasional {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. The ground is covered in leaf litter interspersed with patches of {\it Mercurialis perennis, Silene dioica} and (at the western end) {\it Anenome nemorosa}. There is also frequent scattered {\it Dryopteris dilatata}, plus occasional {\it Dactylis glomerata, Deschampsia cespitosa, Aegopodium podagraria, Arum maculatum, Digitalis purpurea, Lunaria annua, Primula vulgaris} and {\it Ranunculus ficaria}. 

Two ponds were surveyed. Pond 1 (SJ648563) is shown on the OS map, but looked as if it had recently been excavated. It is now actually two smaller ponds divided by an earth embankment. No aquatic or marginal vegetation was seen. Pond 2 (SJ648561) is fringed with occasional stands of {\it Phalaris arundinacea} and partly shaded by {\it Crateagus monogyna, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Salix} sp. on the bank, and one old, overhanging {\it Quercus robur} tree. Some old farm machinery and other rubbish has been dumped in the western side of this pond.

MANAGE:
As the land is used for intensive arable crop production (with some improved pasture), the scope for management in such a way as to allow the development of a greater diversity of flora and fauna to develop on the common is limited. At the very least, it would be desirable to retain the existing hedgerows, trees and ponds to discontinue dumping in the pond at SJ648561. Any standing deadwood in the treebelt along Old Pool Hall Lane could be left in situ if it is not a danger to road users. 

Over the next decade, there may be a shift away from the culture of obtaining maximum possible crop yield, which has been encouraged by production subsidies. On lowland fields such as those on this common, a less intensive form of agricultural management could allow for the devlopment of features such as rough grass margins along the hedgerows, the creation rather than infilling of ponds and retetention of stubble in situ for some time after harvest to augment food availablity for seed eating birds and small mammals.


FAUNA:
On visit the following species were noted: Yellow Hammer, Meadow Pipit, Willow Warbler, Linnet, Pheasant.

VEG:
A predominantly bracken-covered hill, with patches of unimproved acidic grassland, particularly along footpaths. Grassland species include Agrostis capillaris, Festuca ovina, Deschampsia flexuosa, D. cespitosa, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus, H. mollis, Galium saxatile, Campanula rotundifolia, Potentilla erecta, Digitalis purpurea, Nardus stricta, Achillea millefolium, Juncus squarrosus, Senecio vulgaris, Rumex acetosella and Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus. Very occasional patches of Juncus effusus Tussilago farfara and Sphagnum recurvum occur and Arrhenatherum elatius and Chamaenerion angustifolium are locally dominant. Remnant patches of heath with Calluna vulgaris, Empetrum nigrum and Vaccinium myrtillus occurs along ridges in the south-eastern part of the common and along pathways elsewhere. Scattered scrub of rowan, elder, birch, Ulex europaeus, Crataegus monogyna and Rubus fruticosus is present.

MANAGE:
The site appears to be only lightly grazed. Footpath repair work by stone pitching has been carried out on one of the footpaths and the bracken on either side of other footpaths is mown. It would be useful to extend mowing where possible to control bracken in areas where a remnant heathland flora still exists. This particularly applies to the south-eastern part of the common which adjoins well-managed heather moorland in CL 313. The planting of trees on the lower bracken-covered slopes would extend adjacent areas of woodland, and would be beneficial to birds. Further work to control footpath erosion is necessary.


FAUNA:
On visit, Red Grouse and Meadow Pipits were seen. A Goshawk was observed hunting over the common.  Small Tortoiseshell, Shrew.

VEG:
Most of the common is covered with NVC H12 (Calluna vulgaris - Vaccinium myrtillus heath), and Calluna vulgaris is dominant, with occasional patches of Deschampsia flexuosa, Erica tetralix and Empetrum nigrum. An area of wet heath contains Molinia caerulea, Trichophorum cespitosum, Eriophorum angustifolium, Carex panicea, C. binervis, Juncus effusus, Aulacomnium palustre, Sphagnum papillosum, S. recurvum, S. capillifolium and Aulacomnium palustre. NVC U5 (Nardus stricta - Galium saxatile grassland) occurs in the trampled south-eastern corner of the common and along pathways. Nardus stricta, Juncus squarrosus, Festuca ovina and Agrostis capillaris are present. A small clump of pine trees has been planted.

MANAGE:
The site appears to be only lightly grazed. Footpath repair work by stone pitching has been carried out on one of the footpaths, and the bracken on either side of other footpaths is mown. It would be useful to extend mowing, where possible, to control bracken in areas where a remnant heathland flora still exists. This particularly applies to the south-eastern part of the common which adjoins well-managed heather moorland in CL 313. The planting of trees on the lower bracken-covered slopes would extend adjacent areas of woodland and would be beneficial to birds. Further work to control footpath erosion is necessary.


VEG:
The common comprises 100% heather moorland, dominated by Calluna vulgaris, with Erica cinerea Deschampsia flexuosa, Nardus stricta and Juncus squarrosus.

MANAGE:
Management of the common does not appear to differ from that on the surrounding moorland. It is rotationally burnt in patches for Grouse, and is lightly sheep-grazed. The present management should continue, but patches of older heather should be promoted to encourage a greater diversity of species and structure and for the benefit of nesting birds of prey.


FAUNA:
Together with Boulby Cliffs, 9Km to the east, Hunt Cliffs support nationally important numbers of numbers of 6000 pairs at the 2 sites). Cliff-nesting House Martins are a notable feature. Other breeding species: Fulmar, Cormorant, Herring Gull. Many species of wading birds feed on the rocks below the cliffs at low tide. On visit the following species were recorded: Sandwich Tern, Jackdaw, Racing Pigeon, Carrion Crow.

VEG:
The cliffs comprise of soft acidic rock, and unvegetated cliffs and occasional scree are present. A calcareous grassland flora dominated by Festuca rubra has developed on the cliffs, particularly in the south-eastern part of the common. Notable species such as Anacamptis pyramidalis, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Gymnadenia conopsea, Carlina vulgaris and Serratula tinctoria are present. Other species include Reseda lutea, Sanguisorba minor, Ononis sp., Linum catharticum, Blackstonia perfoliata, Lathyrus pratensis, Galium verum, Rhinanthus minor, Medicago lupulina, Plantago maritima, P. lanceolata, Campanula rotundifolia, Daucus carota, Lotus corniculatus, Anthyllis vulneraria, Dactylus glomerata, Centaurea nigra, Cirsium vulgare, C. arvense, Potentilla reptans, Sedum anglicum, Vicia cracca, Conopodium majus, Achillea millefolium, Sonchus sp., Senecio jacobaea, S. squalidus, Heracleum sphondylium, Rumex crispus, Archium minus, Festuca arundinacea, Arrhenatherum elatius, and locally, Chamaenerion angustifolium, Eupatorium cannabinum, Pulicaria dysenterica, Equisetum arvense, Tussilago farfara, Pteridium aquilinum, Rosa sp. and Rubus caesius. Scrub is common on more stable slopes, and Rubus fruticosus, Prunus spinosa and Salix sp. are frequent. A small area of foredunes occurs in the south-east of the common, and comprises Agropyron junceiforme, Ammophila arenaria, Leymus arenarius and Atriplex laciniata.

MANAGE:
Wooden steps have been constructed to counter footpath erosion, and these should be maintained.


FAUNA:
On visit the following species were recorded: Grouse, Whinchat, Meadow Pipit. 
Small white butterfly.   
Grass Snake.

VEG:
Area south of road is a mosaic of marshy grassland (predominantly NVC M25), and Calluna heath on drier ridges. Marshy grassland is dominated by Molinia caerulea, with Potentilla erecta, Cirsium palustre, Trichophorum cespitosum, Achillea ptarmica, Lotus uliginosus, Succisa pratensis, Vaccinium myrtillus, Luzula sylvatica, Sphagnum palustre, Hypnum cupressiforme and Leucobryum glaucum. Empetrum nigrum, Blechnum spicant, Erica cinerea and scattered Ulex gallii occur in the Calluna-dominated heath. A flush just south of road (1) is mostly NVC M6 Juncus effusus sub-community with Carex echinata, Polytrichum commune, Sphagnum recurvum and Eriophorum vaginatum. On flatter ground, the flush grades into NVC M23 rush pasture, with dominants J. effusus and J. acutiflorus, with Galium palustre, Mentha aquatica, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Potentilla palustris, Viola palustris, Ranunculus flammula, R. repens, Cardamine pratensis, Carex panicea, Eleocharis palustris, Anthoxanthum odoratum and Festuca rubra. Molinia grassland dominates to north of road, but grades into a mosaic of wet Erica tetralix heath and acidic grassland at the NE end of the common. Scattered Salix repens and Ulex gallii scrub, and scattered pine trees are present. A species-rich flush (2) is dominated by Juncus acutiflorus with Triglochin palustris, Pedicularis palustris, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Potamogeton polygonifolius, Anagallis tenella, Carex demissa, C. nigra, C. panicea, Isolepis setacea, Epilobium palustre, Myosotis sp., Filipendula ulmaria, Ranunculus flammula and Prunella vulgaris. Patches of continuous bracken occur across the common.

MANAGE:
The common is lightly sheep grazed, and most of the heather is mature. Small areas of gorse have been burned. Additional small-scale rotational burning would be beneficial to diversify the age and structure of the heath.


FAUNA:
Several small tortioseshell butterflies were seen near the riverbank.

VEG:
The common was observed from the western bank of the River Fowey, using binoculars.

{\it Juncus effusus} dominated marshy grassland occupies most of the area of the common. It is interspersed with frequent stands of {\it Sparganium erectum} and occasional stands of {\it Typha latifolia}. Along the riverbank, there are occasional stands of {\it Schoenoplectus lacustris}, also (in the S. half of the common) dense stands of {\it Phragmites australis} with occasional {\it Aster tripolium}.

Elevation gradually declines towards the S. end of the common, and the marshy grassland grades into rank {\it Elymus pungens} dominated 
grassland. This part is probably subject to more frequent tidal inundation, and has been recorded as saltmarsh.


FAUNA:
Meadow brown and small tortoiseshell butterflies seen, also the following birds: House sparrow, Blackbird, Magpie.

VEG:
The dense scrub is a mixture of {\it Salix aurita, Ulex europaeus, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., with occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. Within and around the edges of the scrub, (bordering the patches of rank grassland and the road), there are small stands of {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Anthriscus sylvestris} and {\it Urtica dioica}, with occasional clumps of {\it Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it D. filix-mas}.

The patches of rank grassland are dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}, with frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris, A. stolonifera, Holcus lanatus, Deschampsia cespitosa, Centaurea nigra, Stachys officinalis, Silene dioica, Potentilla anserina, Glechoma hederacea, Heracleum sphondylium, Succisa pratensis} and {\it Leontodon autumnalis}, plus occasional {\it Odontites verna, Filipendula ulmaria, Lysimachia punctata, Polygonum persicaria} and {\it Juncus conglomeratus}.    

A sunken lane running N. from the western end of the common is within the CL boundary. It is lined with coppiced {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} (up to 6m high) with mature {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Prunus spinosa} hedges (up to 4m high). The steep banks between the hedges and the track support frequent {\it Hedera helix, Silene dioica, Oxalis acetosella, Viola} sp. and {\it Dryopteris filix-mas}, plus occasional {\it Blechnum spicant, Umbilicus rupestris, Anthriscus sylvestris, Solidago vigaurea} and {\it Mentha aquatica}.

MANAGE:
Apart from the coppicing, no ongoing management is apparent. The common appears to be ungrazed.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: Pied wagtail, Blue tit, House sparrow.

VEG:
The patches of woodland generally consist of {\it Quercus robur} (mostly mature), with frequent young {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and occasional {\it Betula pendula, Ulmus} sp., {\it Malus} sp. and {\it Sorbus aucuparia} (all these spp. occur as scattered saplings within the {\it P. aquilinum}).      

The scrub consists of {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Ulex europaeus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., with occasional {\it Corylus avellana}.

Herb species noted under the scrub and woodland along the road include abundant {\it Hedera helix}, with locally frequent {\it Stellaria holostea, Silene dioica, Umbilicus rupestris} and {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} (possibly abundant), plus occasional {\it Digitalis purpurea, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Teucrium scorodonia, Geranium robertianum} and {\it Arum maculatum}.


VEG:
This small common is split into three separate sections. A stream runs  S. to N. through the largest section; it is fringed with {\it Salix} spp., {\it Ulex europaeus, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Prunus spinosa} scrub, with small patches of {\it Calluna vulgaris} dominated dry heath and rank poor semi-improved grassland ({\it Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius,  Holcus lanatus, Rumex obtusifolius, Cirsium arvense}). The 2 small poor semi-improved fields along the western boundary are similar. 

The two other sections contain {\it R. fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus} dominated dense scrub (with abundant {\it Hedera helix}), and {\it Calluna vulgaris} dominated dry heath, with frequent {\it Erica cinerea, Agrostis} spp., and {\it Festuca rubra}, plus occasional {\it Ulex gallii, Teucrium scorodonia, Cytisus scoparius, Sambucus nigra, Malus} sp. and {\it Digitalis purpurea}. The heath is situated on the disused spoil tip (see map).

MANAGE:
The enclosed fields are probably used for grazing. The heathland areas are unfenced along the road and may be grazed occasionally. Some scrub encroachment has occurred on these areas.


FAUNA:
Areas of rank grassland contain numerous grasshoppers. Birds noted: House sparrow, Blackbird, Wren.

VEG:
The dense scrub is dominated by {\it Salix} spp., with locally abundant {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., and scattered saplings ({\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pubescens}). There is one mature, standard {\it Q. robur} tree in the E. half of the common, and along the boundaries, there are young and mature {\it A. pseudoplataunus} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees. Some young {\it Pinus} sp. trees have been planted near the road.  

The patches of rank grassland are dominated by {\it Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Holcus lanatus}, with abundant {\it Potentilla anserina, Centaurea nigra, Odontites verna, Potentilla reptans} and {\it Plantago lanceolata}, plus locally frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Lolium perenne, Cirsium arvense, Senecio jacobaea, Hypericum tetrapterum, Achillea millefolium, Melitotus officinalis, Trifolium pratense, Stachys sylvatica, Heracleum sphondylium, Eupatorium cannabinum, Solanum dulcamara} and {\it Calystegia sepium}, plus occasional {\it Carex panicea, Juncus effusus, Crocosmia} sp. and orchids (dead flower spikes - difficult to determine species, but probably {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii}). 

The tall herb vegetation mainly occurs as patches within the rank grassland and scrub ({\it Urtica dioica, Cirsium arvense} and {\it Fallopia japonica}), but there are more extensive stands along the road in the eastern half of the common. 

The small area of woodland situated in the southern quarter of the common is dominated by {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} (a few trees have been coppiced), with an understorey of {\it Prunus spinosa} (very dense in places). The ground flora is dominated by {\it Hedera helix}, with abundant {\it Dryopteris dilatata} and locally frequent {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

MANAGE:
Apart from the small amount of planting and coppicing, no other management is apparent.


FAUNA:
Areas of long grass contain numerous grasshoppers.

VEG:
Around the edges of the horse grazed improved grassland (along the boundary of the common) there are planted {\it Pinus} sp. trees and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}.

The eastern third of the common is fenced off from the improved grassland, and appears to be ungrazed. The tracks are used by vehicles accessing the rear of surrounding houses. Semi-natural habitat in this area is mostly dense {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. scrub, growing on mounds of soil and rubble, with occasional {\it Buddleja davidii} and {\it Salix} spp. There are also small (too small to map) patches of rank grassland ({\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus lanatus, Dactylis glomerata}) with stands of {\it Chamerion angustifolium}, and occasional {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Fallopia japonica}. Other species recorded in this area include frequent {\it Calystegia sepium, Potentilla anserina} and {\it Plantago lanceolata}, plus occasional {\it Convolvulus arvensis, Stachys sylvatica, Epilobium hirsutum, Pulicaria dysenterica, Scrophularia aquatica, Juncus effusus, Carex pendula} and {\it C. hirta}.

MANAGE:
The improved grassland is heavily grazed by horses. The remaining parts of the common appear to be unmanaged, except for maintenance of access routes for vehicles.


VEG:
The largest (southern) section of the common is extensively covered by {\it Ulex europaeus} dominated dense scrub (1 to 3m high), with occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna}. There are scattered small patches of {\it Erica cinerea} dominated dry heath. The northern half of this section is covered with dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum}; also in this area, there is a small, disused quarry (SW724409). This has sheer sides (about 15m high), on which there are some extensive patches of {\it Hedera helix} and occasional, scattered {\it Dryopteris filix-mas} and {\it Athyrium filix-femina}. A pool in the bottom contains occasional {\it Myosotis scorpioides}, it is surrounded by scattered clumps of {\it D. filix-mas} and {\it A. filix-femina}. It appears to be used for fishing. A few items of litter were seen in the water. A mine adit (about 1m high) which could provide a roosting area for bats was seen near the entrance to the quarry.  

Other species recorded in this southern section include locally frequent {\it Agrostis tenuis, A. stolonifera, Hieracium sabaudum} agg. and {\it Teucrium scorodonia}.

The northern-most section (SW726417) contains a small area of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} dominated woodland, which is fringed with stands of {\it P. aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus}. Other species recorded here include frequent {\it Hedera helix, Lonicera periclymenum, Silene dioica, Prunella vulgaris, Phyllitis scolopendrium} and {\it A. filix-femina}, plus occasional {\it Malus} sp. The small section immediately to the south contains dense, continuous stands of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

MANAGE:
The predominance of dense scrub and {\it P. aquilinum} suggests regular grazing no longer takes place.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: woodpigeon (in northern section), common gull (overhead main section).

VEG:
1) Southern section.

The dry heath is mostly dominated by {\it Erica cinerea} and {\it Ulex gallii}, with locally frequent {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Festuca rubra}, plus scattered {\it Ulex europaeus. Ulex gallii} becomes dominant towards the southern end. This part of the common is dotted with disused mineshafts, and there are peripheral areas of spoil. These are generally unvegetated, or support sparse {\it Calluna vulgaris}. 

At the bottom of the slope, there is a stream (1 to 2m wide) which is fringed with abundant {\it Holcus lanatus} and frequent {\it Eupatorium cannabinum, Impatiens glandulifera, Filipendula ulmaria, Solanum dulcamara, Rhinanthus minor, Armeria maritima} and {\it Daucus carota}, plus occasional {\it Phyllitis scolopendrium}. 

2) Northern section

This is covered with dense {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub (1 to 3m high), with frequent scattered {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} saplings, and occasional {\it Pinus} sp. saplings (both spp. less than 4m high). There are also scattered patches (too small to map) of dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, and {\it Erica cinerea} dominated dry heath. Other species recorded in this area include frequent {\it Agrostis curtisii, Festuca rubra} and {\it Teucrium scorodonia} (along footpaths), also {\it Stachys palustris} and {\it Eupatorium cannabinum} with occasional {\it Salix viminalis} (along the stream on the western boundary).

MANAGE:
The cover of the dry heath is almost continuous, and its height varies between 20 and 40cm. It may be grazed occasionally. Several disused mine shafts and a spoil tip are situated in this section.  Apart from planting with saplings, the northern section (SX706475) now appears to be unmanaged.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: Blackbird, House Sparrow.

VEG:
The southern section contains Nance Wood and Illogan Woods (see map). 

Nance Wood was viewed from the road only. The following information is quoted directly from the SSSI citation:

"Nance Wood is a narrow strip of semi-natural woodland developed on steep north-facing slopes. The parent rock is Devonian shale, giving rise to soils which are predominantly acid and free-draining, although there are small pockets of more base-rich soils. 

The majority ot the woodland is composed of almost pure Sessile Oak ({\it Quercus petraea}); last actively coppiced some 40-60 years ago. Proximity to the sea has resulted in a low, wind-pruned canopy between 4 and 6m high. 

The ground flora consists of Honeysuckle ({\it Lonicera periclymenum}), Bramble ({\it Rubus fruticosus}), Bracken ({\it Pteridium aquilinum}) and Bluebell ({\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta}), with scattered stands of Greater Woodrush ({\it Luzula sylvatica}) on steeper slopes.

The shrub layer is composed of Holly ({\it Ilex aquifolium}), Hazel ({\it Corylus avellana}) and Hawthorn ({\it Crataegus monogyna}). 

The southern arm of Nance Wood supports an area of Ash-Oak-Sycamore coppice, with some hawthorn, Blackthorn ({\it Prunus spinosa}) and a few Wych Elm ({\it Ulmus glabra}).

The site supports a good bryophyte flora, with 81 moss and 21 liverwort species recorded. Of particular interest are the mosses {\it Hookeria lucens} which shows a typically oceanic, west coast distribution, and the nationally rare species {\it Pohlia rothii} and {\it Alonia ambigua}. 

The site is of particular importance for the presence of Irish Spurge ({\it Euphorbia hyberna}), one of the only 2 British localities for this Red Data Book species. The dwarf {\it Quercus petraea} coppice is of interest in its own right."  

The following information was gained as a result of field survey:

Illogan Woods are continuous with Nance Wood, and partly cover both sides of a small valley. For 20 to 4Om on either side of a stream in the valley bottom, there are standard and old coppiced {\it Betula} sp., {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees, with some mature {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Alnus glutinosa}. Further up the slopes on both sides of the valley, {\it Q. robur} becomes predominant, and there is also frequent {\it Fagus sylvatica}. Tree regeneration appears to be generally good throughout the wood - there is a wide age range, and saplings are numerous in places.

The understorey mostly consists of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Ilex aquifolium} with locally frequent {\it Corylus avellana}. These species are generally scattered, with occasional impenetrable stands. There is also locally frequent {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Tamus communis} and {\it Clematis vitalba}, with occasional {\it Ulex europaeus}.       

Groundflora species recorded include locally abundant {\it Mnium hornum} and {\it Urtica dioica}, with locally frequent {\it Dryopteris filix-mas, Athyrium filix-femina, Pteridium aquilinum, Phyllitis scolopendrium, Blechnum spicant, Mercurialis perennis, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Circaea lutetiana, Arum maculatum, Lysimachia nemorum, Geranium robertianum, Carex sylvatica, Luzula sylvatica} and {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} (possibly abundant - difficult to tell in August). Along the stream, there is frequent {\it Chrysosplenium oppositifolium} and {\it Oenanthe crocata}, plus occasional {\it Carex remota}.   

A small area of {\it U. europaeus} scrub has developed in the W. part of the wood, and an area nearby has been felled recently. 

The northern section is mostly dense scrub, with a peripheral strip of broadleaved woodland along the valley bottom. The scrub is dominated by {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Prunus spinosa}, with locally abundant {\it Cytisus scoparius} and scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna}. There are also occasional dense stands of {\it Rhododendron ponticum} and scattered {\it A. pseudoplatanus, Q. petraea} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia} saplings. Towards the valley bottom, these become more frequent, and the scrub grades into broadleaved woodland, dominated by {\it Q. robur} and {\it A. pseudoplatanus}. Other species recorded in the scrub: locally abundant {\it Calystegia sepium} and {\it Crocosmia} sp.

MANAGE:
No evidence of continued coppicing was seen. It appears that some standard trees have recently been felled in the W. section of Illogan woods.


FAUNA:
Areas of rank grassland contain numerous grasshoppers.

VEG:
North of the farm track, the ground is fairly uneven; there is a mixture of ridges, hummocks and damp hollows, probably created by past sand extraction. The hollows are up to 40m wide and 1m. deep, and contain dense stands of {\it Eupatorium cannabinum} and {\it Pulicaria dysenterica}, with abundant {\it Mentha aquatica}, and locally frequent {\it Carex nigra, Carex hirta, Juncus inflexus, Epilobium hirsutum, Lythrum salicaria, Solanum dulcamara, Hydrocotyle vulgaris} and {\it Rhinanthus minor}, plus occasional {\it Phragmites australis}.

The drier ridges and hummocks support coastal grassland. This is dominated by {\it Festuca rubra}, with locally abundant {\it Potentilla anserina}, plus locally frequent {\it Holcus lanatus, Ononis repens, Galium verum, Convolvulus arvensis, Centaurea nigra, Potentilla reptans, Primula} sp., {\it Plantago lanceolata} and {\it Carex arenaria}, and occasional {\it Daucus carota}.  

South of the farm track, the hollows are much more extensive, and dominated by {\it Epilobium hirsutum}, with frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius}, and {\it Calystegia sepium}, and occasional {\it Heracleum sphondylium}.

The stream contains occasional {\it Callitriche} sp., and is fringed with occasional stands of {\it Iris pseudacorus}.

The dense scrub is peripheral to the habitats described above. It is dominated by {\it Salix cinerea}, with frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., and scattered {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Ulmus} sp. saplings and occasional stands (greater than 2m wide) of {\it Fallopia japonica}. Along the eastern boundary, there is a discontinuous {\it Crataegus monogyna/Prunus spinosa} hedge (up to 3m. high and wide). There is a small, circular stand of young {\it Ulmus} sp. trees in the southern half of the site.

MANAGE:
The site appears to be subject to intermittent grazing. The stream is probably subject to the occasional clearance of fringing vegetation. No other management is apparent. The peripheral areas of dense scrub could spread in the absence of grazing. Adjacent to the site (along the northen boundary - see map), there is a dense stand of {\it Phragmites australis}, about 1 ha in extent. This provides a valuable addition to the habitats on site, and its removal should be avoided.


FAUNA:
Rabbits. The SSSI of which this common is a small northern part is Grade B in the Invertebrate Site Register. Noted from the whole SSSI area are: Lepidoptera - {\it Plebejus argus, Strymonidia w-album} and Mollusca - {\it Lymnaea glabra} a Red Data Book species. Birds recorded from whole SSSI include Stonechat, Linnet, Skylark, Blackbird, Wheatear, Magpie, Fulmar, Starling, Shelduck, Curlew, Kestrel, Jackdaw.

VEG:
Most of Gwithian Towans appears to be SD10c (NVC) snad dunes. Species such as {\it Carex arenaria, Ammophila arenaria, Taraxacum officinale, Festuca rubra, Lotus corniculatus, Plantago lanceolata, Euphorbia paralias, Elymus factus, Eryngium maritimum, Leontodon hispidus, Plantago maritima} are present. Many rarities are noted from the overall Gwithian to Mexico Towans SSSI such as {\it Vulpia fasculata, Verbascum virgatum, Equisetum variegatum, Parentucellia viscosa, Orobanche hederae, Stellaria pallida, Ophioglossum vulgatum, Catapodium marinum, Valerianella locusta} ssp. {\it dunensis, Lamium amplexicaule, Trifolium occidentale, Spiranthes spiralis, Valerianella eriocarpa, Scrophularia scorodonia}.

MANAGE:
No management issues noted. Earlier surveys record areas of sand extraction.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: Blackbird, Blue Tit, House Sparrow.

VEG:
All sections were viewed from the boundaries only using binoculars, except for the CWT managed area.

{\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} appear to be the most abundant tree species in each of the wooded sections (but this should be confirmed by on-site survey); there is is also locally frequent {\it Betula} sp., {\it Castanea sativa, Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Quercus robur} plus occasional {\it Aesculus hippocastanum, Alnus glutinosa, Tilia} sp., {\it Ulmus glabra} and planted {\it Pinus} sp. The trees are mostly mature standards, however there are areas of old {\it A. pseudoplatanus} and {\it F. excelsior} coppice; the trunk diameters of these trees are generally less than 20cm at chest height.

In the CWT managed area, there is an understorey of scattered {\it Arundinaria jaursarensis} (Bamboo), {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rhododendron ponticum} and {\it Salix} sp. Ground flora species noted in this area include locally abundant {\it Hedera helix, Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. plus locally frequent {\it Athyrium filix-femina, Circaea lutetiana, Dryopteris dilatata, D. filix-mas, Geranium robertianum, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Lonicera periclymenum, Mnium hornum, Silene dioica} and {\it Urtica dioica}, plus occasional {\it Arum maculatum, Blechnum spicant} and {\it Phyllitis scolopendrium, Anthriscus sylvestis} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}, with occasional {\it Eupatorium cannabinum}, occupy occasional small clearings. Some deadwood has been left in situ.

MANAGE:
There is evidence of localized coppicing in the 4 largest sections. It would be desirable to continue the practice of leaving standing and fallen deadwood in situ in all sections. Part of the common is managed by the CWT. Only the small section to the NW of Stennack (SW655377) appears to be subject to livestock grazing; this contains improved grassland with scattered mature standard {\it Fagus sylvatica}.


VEG:
The continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} contains areas of scattered and dense {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub, mostly on the lower half of the slope. The stream at the bottom of the slope is lined with dense {\it Salix} spp., {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} scrub, with scattered {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} saplings. 

The dry heath is situated on fairly level ground at the top of the valley slope. It consists of {\it Erica cinerea, Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Ulex gallii} (no one species appears to be dominant). It is generally between 10 and 30cm high, and shows signs of having been grazed. There are small patches of {\it Agrostis capillaris} dominated acid grassland around the edges of the heath, and along the boundaries, there are small patches of dense {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub.

MANAGE:
The heath appears to be grazed intermittently by cattle. It would be desirable to prevent it being reduced in area by the spread of {\it Ulex europaeus} from the common land boundary, or by a significant increase in grazing pressure.


FAUNA:
Reported by commoner who lives locally: Long-tailed tits, Goldfinches. Dormice have been found locally and the common is assumed to have a population present. Buzzard and crows seen during site visit.

VEG:
The site is mostly of coppiced {\it Corylus avellana} with standard trees present such as {\it Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus }. Understorey species include {\it Crataegus monogyna} which often supports good lichen growth. Ground flora species ( seen from the road) include {\it Phyllotis scolopendrium, Dryopteris dilitata, Hedera helix,  Ranunculus acris, Digitalis purpurea, Urtica dioica, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Fragaria vesca, Veronica} sp. {\it Anemone nemorosa, Silene dioica, Asplenium adiantum-nigrum, Umbilicus rupestris} and {\it Polypodium vulgare}. {\it Orchis mascula} is reputed to grow at this site.

Good bryophyte and lichen growth is found along the roadsides and on the excellent walls near Ruse's Mill which are topped by a line of {\it Fagus sylvatica} small trees. There is also good bryophyte growth on rock outcrops upslope overhanging the old rubbish dump.

There is a field grazed by 2 horses and some sheep in the northern part of this common

MANAGE:
No active management. The old rubbish/scrap dump upslope is not further used according to a local resident.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: Blackbird, House Sparrow, Song Thrush, Woodpigeon.

VEG:
The whole of this small area of common land is subject to cattle grazing (about 15 seen). The largest area of habitat is {\it Juncus effusus} dominated marshy grassland; this is surrounded by broadleaved woodland ({\it Alnus glutinosa, Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior, Fagus sylvatica} - young and mature standard trees) and dense scrub ({\it Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus}). A small stream (about 1m wide) runs N. to S. through the common.

The marshy grassland contains abundant {\it Ranunculus repens}, with frequent {\it Succisa pratensis} and {\it Prunella vulgaris}, and scattered {\it Cirsium palustre}. It is quite heavily poached. The stream is fringed with occasional {\it Apium nodiflorum} and {\it Polygonum hydropiper} in this area.

The ground under the scrub and woodland is generally poached and muddy,  but there are patches of {\it Holcus lanatus, H. mollis} and {\it Agrostis capillaris. Dryopteris dilatata, D. filix-mas, Blechnum spicant} and {\it Phyllitis scolopendrium} grow along the stream and shaded dry stone boundary walls, with occasional {\it Umbilicus rupestris} and {\it Chrysosplenium oppositifolium}.

MANAGE:
Used for cattle grazing; about 15 cattle were seen.


VEG:
The common was observed from the western bank of the River Fowey, using binoculars.

{\it Juncus effusus} dominated marshy grassland occupies most of the area of the common. It is interspersed with frequent stands of {\it Sparganium erectum} and occasional stands of {\it Typha latifolia}. Along the riverbank, there are occasional stands of {\it Schoenoplectus lacustris}, also (in the S. half of the common) dense stands of {\it Phragmites australis} with occasional {\it Aster tripolium}.

Elevation gradually declines towards the S. end of the common, and the marshy grassland grades into rank {\it Elymus pungens} dominated grassland. This part is probably subject to more frequent tidal inundation, and has been recorded as saltmarsh.

MANAGE:
No management is apparent, apart from the tree coppicing. The common does not appear to be subject to livestock grazing.


FAUNA:
Small Tortoiseshell, Large White and Meadow Brown butterflies seen.

VEG:
The western half of this common is improved, sheep and cattle grazed grassland. This is fenced off from the eastern half, which contains areas of wet heath, tall herb, dense scrub and semi-improved acid grassland. 

The wet heath consists of {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea} and {\it Ulex gallii} (no single species appears to be dominant), with abundant {\it Molinia caerulea}, frequent {\it Agrostis curtisii} and occasional {\it Erica tetralix}. It is between 10 and 30cm high, and heather cover is generally continuous. It is probably subject to periodic sheep grazing.  

The heath gives way abruptly to tall herb and dense scrub towards the A395. The tall herb ({\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Urtica dioica}) surrounds an area of bare ground which adjoins the A395, and is used for parking farm vehicles. The scrub is mostly situated along the A395, and in the eastern end of the common. It consists of {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}, with some {\it Salix} spp. and {\it Sambucus nigra}. 

The semi-improved acid grassland is fenced off from the heath (see map). It is dominated by {\it Agrostis} spp., and there is frequent scattered {\it Ulex europaeus}. The eastern end of this enclosure (opposite Coombegate) contains {\it Salix} spp. scrub with {\it Betula} sp. saplings. This enclosure is likely to be subject to periodic sheep grazing. Viewed from boundary fence.

No livestock were seen in the eastern half of the common at the time of survey.

MANAGE:
The enclosed areas of semi-improved acid grassland and improved grassland appear to be used regularly for sheep and cattle grazing; the remaining area is probably ungrazed.


VEG:
Almost the whole area of this small common is occupied by dense scrub, dominated by {\it Ulex europaeus}. There are some small, scattered stands of {\it Urtica dioica, Artemisia vulgaris} agg. and {\it Chamerion angustifolium} (too small to map).                                                      

{\it Prunus spinosa} is frequent along the southern edge, and there are some {\it Quercus robur} trees (probably the remnants of a hedge).


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: House Sparrow, Song Thrush. The long grass along the roadsides contains numerous grasshoppers.

VEG:
The wet heath is largest area of semi-natural habitat on the common. It consists of abundant {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Molinia caerulea}, with locally frequent {\it Erica tetralix, Erica cinerea, Ulex gallii, Agrostis curtisii} and {\it Trichophorum cespitosum}, plus scattered {\it Ulex europaeus}. The heath is between 20 and 40cm high in the S, declining to 10 to 30cm high towards its N. edge, where grazing appears to be more frequent. Cover is generally continuous. An abandoned spoil tip at SX236848 supports {\it Agrostis} spp. dominated acid grassland, with scattered stands of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}.       

On its northern side, the wet heath grades into wet heath/acid grassland mosaic, with abundant {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it A. curtisii}. This grades into poor semi-improved grassland ({\it Cynosurus cristatus, Lolium perenne, Holcus lanatus, Poa} spp., {\it Plantago lanceolata}) with peripheral areas of semi-improved acid grassland, and dense scrub ({\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Ulex europaeus}, occasional {\it Sorbus aucuparia}). These are situated along the boundary of the common (extend for up to 25m from boundary fence).     

To the west of the heath, there are two enclosed areas of sheep grazed improved grassland. All the land to the east of the "C" class public road and S. of the farm track to Lidcott is also improved grassland.  

The only other substantial area of semi-natural habitat is the {\it Ulex europaeus} dominated dense scrub on either side of the A395. This is between 1 and 3m high and contains occasional {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Salix} sp. 

Other species recorded on the common (mostly along the road verges) include locally frequent {\it Succisa pratensis, Leontodon autumnalis, Teucrium scorodonia, Centaurea nigra, Stachys officinalis, S. sylvatica, Heracleum sphondylium, Anthriscus sylvetris, Cerastium holostioides, Vicia sepium, V. cracca} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}, plus occasional {\it Euphrasia} sp., {\it Viola} sp., {\it Valeriana dioica} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}.

MANAGE:
Grazed by sheep and cattle. The grazing is concentrated on areas of improved and poor semi-improved grassland.


FAUNA:
Numerous grasshoppers were heard in the western third of the common (wet heathland).

VEG:
The wet heath is situated in the western third of the common. It is dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Ulex gallii}, with abundant {\it Molinia caerulea} plus locally frequent {\it Erica cinerea} and {\it E. tetralix}, and scattered {\it Ulex europaeus}. Most of the heath is open to the road (A395). This area appears to be ungrazed, and the heather is mature (30 to 60cm high), although cover is not continuous. The remaining heath is in an enclosed field (see map), and shows obvious signs of frequent grazing. It grades into poor semi-improved grassland. A dense hedgerow (up to 3m high and 6m wide) dominated by {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Ulex europaeus} runs along the northern boundary of the heath.          

Other species found on the heath (mostly within 10m of the road) include frequent {\it Stachys officinalis, Succisa pratensis, Centaurea nigra, Teucrium scorodonia, Leontodon autumnalis} and {\it Achillea millefolium}, plus occasional {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Filipendula ulmaria, Eupatorium cannabinum, Achillea ptarmica, Juncus effusus, Euphrasia} sp., {\it Lactuca serriola} and scattered {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Most of these species also occur in the small areas of rank grassland ({\it Dactylis glomerata, Agrostis} spp.), on the S. side of the A395.     

The poor semi-improved grassland is dominated by {\it Cynosurus cristatus}, with scattered {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} in the eastern corner. This enclosure also contains two wind turbines which belong to the Cold Northcott Windfarm (office on opposite side of the A395).

MANAGE:
The area of heathland appears to be ungrazed, and some scrub encroachment has occurred. It is unfenced along the A395. The area of enclosed poor semi-improved grassland appears to be subject to frequent grazing (probably sheep/cattle). No livestock were seen at the time of survey.


VEG:
The whole of the area of this enclosed common is sheep-grazed poor semi-improved grassland. It is dominated by {\it Cynosurus cristatus}, with {\it Lolium perenne, Holcus lanatus, Poa} spp., {\it Agrostis} sp., {\it Trifolium repens} and {\it Plantago lanceolata}. There are occasional {\it Ulex europaeus} bushes along the southern boundary (probably the remnants of a hedge). 
Viewed from the northern and western boundary fences only.


VEG:
The whole of the area of this enclosed common (except for a track) is sheep grazed poor semi-improved grassland. It is dominated by {\it Cynosurus cristatus}, with {\it Lolium perennne, Holcus lanatus, Poa} spp., {\it Agrostis} sp., {\it Trifolium repens} and {\it Plantago lanceolata}. There are occasional {\it Ulex europaeus} bushes along the northern and western boundaries (probably the remnants of hedge).

Viewed from the public bridleway only.


VEG:
The common seems to be mostly {\it Molinia caerulea} of 5 - 20 cm. with frequent large tufts but not tussocky. There are scattered patches of {\it Calluna vulgaris} (carpet) and some {\it Erica tetralix} with {\it Cladonia} spp. There would probably be more wet heath if more lightly grazed. {\it Carex panicea} is abundant in some areas. Southern parts are almost a monoculture of {\it M. caerulea}. An area of valley mire on the border between Sprey Moor and Brockabarrow Common supports {\it M. caerulea, Sphagnum} spp. {\it Juncus effusus, Eriophorum angustifolium, Erica tetralix, Calluna vulgaris, Potamogeton polygonifolius, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Lotus uliginosus, Drosera rotundifolia, Viola palustris, Ranunculus omiophyllus, Mentha aquatica, Ranunculus flammula}. The stream at the centre of the mire has some heavily poached areas, but {\it Sphagnum} mire usually intact, quaking in some places.  There is a stand of {\it Typha latifolia} with {\it Salix} sp. and {\it Carex (riparia?)} and {\it Lemna} sp.


