Winter storms and disease have taken a toll on ancient woodlands

Trees in ancient Denbighshire woodland have been given a regal look at they live out their dying days. Shorn of their crowns, they’ve been given coronets instead.

The pruning technique mimics the way diseased and wind-damaged trees appear when their trunks are fractured. Those pictured here are at the Graig Wyllt (Wild Rock) Nature Reserve, a former limestone quarry near Ruthin.

Oak and ash trees covers the craggy slopes of a site that gives way the a grassland panorama giving spectacular views of the Vale of Clwyd and the Eryri mountains beyond. The place positively blooms in spring when the woodland floor is carpeted with flowers.

  • @PineRuneEnglish
    6•22 hours ago

    TLDR:

    Special nooks and crannies were carved in dying trees to attract critters that thrive on decaying wood, from wood louse to earwigs. In turn, these support birds, bats and other more charismatic species.

    Larger holes are also cut out for larger animals, and they expect owls may even inhabit some.