The Forests of Northeast England are some of the best places to go to see Britain’s wildlife, from large mammals such as roe deer and wild goats right down to some of the forest's smaller inhabitants such as butterflies. There is no guarantee of seeing the wildlife that you are looking for, but you will frequently be able to see some evidence of the creatures that live in the forest. Keep your eyes and ears open and don’t forget your walking boots, waterproofs, map, wildlife guide and binoculars.
Kielder Forest
A huge variety of habitats can be found in Kielder Water and Forest Park, from ancient woodlands to marshy grasslands and internationally important blanket bogs. Ospreys have nested in the forest for the first time during 2009 and the damp conifer woods are home to an astounding number of mosses, lichens and birds, including a thriving barn owl population. Kielder Forest is also home to 60% of the UK’s native red squirrel population. One of the more unusual residents is the population of feral goats that roam the remote Border fells. Watch video taken during the 2008 census on the the right hand menu.
Visit ‘Wildwoods’ at Kielder Forest
Hamsterley Forest
County Durham’s largest forest extends from the valley floor of Bedburn Beck, a tributary of the River Wear to the moorland of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty at over 1500 feet. The variation in altitude and topography is reflected in the variety of wildlife that calls Hamsterley Forest it’s home. Aside from trees, Hamsterley has 20 wildflower meadows that boast over 130 different plant species.
Visit ‘Wildwoods’ at Hamsterley Forest
Chopwell Woodland Park
Chopwell Wood is one of the largest ancient woodland sites in the Northeast. Today, most of the site has been replanted with conifers, but tantalising glimpses of what the original wildwood looked like still remain. A stone's throw from Newcastle and Gateshead, this beautiful wood is a wildlife spotter’s dream!
Visit ‘Wildwoods’ at Chopwell Woodland Park
