There are two species of oak tree on the Wildlife Site, English Oak (Quecus robur) and Red Oak (Quercus rubra).
The English Oak is perhaps our most highly regarded tree. No other tree species in the UK supports a greater diversity of life than an ancient English Oak.
Most of the oak trees on the Wildlife Site have been planted this century (in Field Corners W1, W2, hedgerow h3, Downlee Lodge Orchard and Meadow) but there are two relatively small specimens in Field 5 that are much older than the others. The distinctive leaves, flowers (April-May) and the acorns in Autumn, all provide food for wildlife on the Site.
The Red Oak is Native to North America. There is a single specimen planted in Field Corner W4, near Bankall Drive. It takes many years before Red Oaks flower and produce acorns and the benefit to wildlife is expected to be less than for the English Oaks but the Red Oak on the Site is already a handsome tree that adds to the colours in autumn.
Photographs of Oak
Click on the photograph for larger images and captions.
Further Information
For further information on the species in this group, please click the links below:
English Oak Red Oak
