Wykeham Farms is wholly entered in DEFRA’s Countryside Stewardship Scheme and over the last 5 years has replanted over 19 miles of hedging and created 55 miles of grassy field margins creating habitat for invertebrates and wild birds alike.

The Farm has planted areas of seed and nectar plants plus wild bird cover, as well as leaving field corners uncultivated. Minimum spraying and pesticide application is carried out and best Agricultural practice is followed during these applications.

The requirements of the Abbey Shoot also enhances the environment with a need for nesting cover (hedges, field margins, beetle banks) and woodland management which necessitates a fairly open canopy and a preference for deciduous woodlands. Light penetration on the woodland floor encourages growth of woodland shrubs and brambles which provide excellent cover for a variety of birds, invertebrates as well as badgers, roe deer and foxes!

For advice on best forest practice for diversity contact Matthew Noble.