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Hedgerows |
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Hedgerows
Good hedgerow management will support an abundance of insects on the farm, provide habitat for a range of birds and mammals, and provide a rich supply of food for some species throughout the year. The management of those field margins abutting the hedge is also critical for a wide range of species (see 'Arable field margins' and 'Field margins on grasslands'). Benefits for wildlifeA variety of boundary types provides habitat for a diversity of wildlife Maintaining a diversity of field boundary types around the farm suits the needs of the widest range of species. Partridges, linnets and yellowhammers prefer short hedgerows (of under 2 metres) with grass margins. The main aim of hedgerow management should be to maintain a range of different types and sizes of hedgerow, to support a wide variety of wildlife Song thrushes and turtle doves prefer wide hedgerows over 4 metres tall. Many hole-nesting birds such as tree sparrow can use old hedgerow trees. Corn buntings prefer field boundaries in the form of hedgeless wide grass banks. A dense base protects nesting birds Thick, dense cover at the base of a hedge plays an important part in protecting nesting birds from predation. A network of hedgerows can act as important links between wildlife habitats on the farm Many species such as dormice will benefit from tall hedgerows linking woodlands around the farm. Old hedgerow trees may be the richest wildlife feature on a farm Mature and dying trees are home to a wide variety of insects and other animals that may be found nowhere else on a farm. Because of their importance as a habitat, such trees require protection and a long-term plan to replace them. ContactAdvisory E-mail: farm-advice@rspb.org.uk Tel: 01767 680551 Last modified: 12 February 2007 |
Insect on dewy ears of barley - Andy Hay (rspb-images.com)
Herd of cows, West Sedgemoor RSPB reserve - David Kjaer (rspb-images.com, Ref: D_2006_11413_0029)
Archie Carmichael (L, on tractor) & Gus Keys (R = site manager) in farm yard at Kinnabus. Mull of Oa RSPB reserve. Islay - Andy Hay (rspb-images.com, Ref: D_2005_9857_009)