Harewood Common
Importance for wildlife
The meadows will be managed as chalk down land by combining cattle grazing and hay cutting. Low numbers of cattle will graze throughout the summer providing a gentler approach to mowing. By eating grass to varying heights, wildflowers are allowed to flourish, due to reduced competition from taller more abundant grasses, providing food and habitats for invertebrates, reptiles and small mammals, which in turn support local bird and bat populations.
The scrubby meadow edges are home to several UK BAP (Biodiversity Action Plan) priority species. The Grizzled Skipper can be seen in early spring basking on areas of bare ground and laying eggs on wild strawberry plants. The UK’s smallest mammal, the Harvest Mouse utilises the tussocky grass edges to build its iconic nests. Common Lizards and Slow Worms use the meadow edges for over wintering and hunting and the elusive Brown Hairstreak butterflies will also utilise young blackthorn to lay eggs.
The planted woodland edges are home to Hazel Dormice, one of the rarest mammals in the UK. Their severe decline has been linked to the loss of ancient woodland and changes in traditional practices such as coppicing, pollarding and thinning. Planting and managing new hedges and trees will enhance connectivity between the ancient woodland, helping to strengthen Dormouse populations.
