A walk in the fascinating world of Ancient and Veteran Trees

Ancient and veteran trees support a large number of invertebrates, lichens, fungi, birds and mammals, some of which are rare and specialist species. Their branches, leaves, roots, decaying wood, hollows in the trunk, loose bark and water pools represent important habitats for wildlife. Even individual trees can be crucial to the survival of some rare species, and more and better-connected trees offer greater chances of survival.

On this evening Dr Claudia Bernardini, project support officer for the Chilterns National Landscape, will introduce you to the realm of ancient and veteran trees. As an ancient tree verifier for the Woodland Trust, Claudia will discuss their physical characteristics and ecological value .

The walk takes place in the beautiful woodland of Ashridge Estate, home to 3600 ancient and veteran trees! The event will last two hours; there will be some walking (around 3 km) and some hands-on practical activities to keep you on your toes.