Ledbury Focus September 2019 Ledbury Focus September 2019 v2 | Page 48

Blue tit with apple - photo courtesy of Bob Coyle Red admiral - photo courtesy of Bruce Shortland O Discover a Wilder Herefordshire with Herefordshire Wildlife Trust this September Orchard Wildlife 48 rchards are an iconic feature of the Hereford- shire landscape and our county has a proud history of cider making. Old traditional orchards also provide vital habitat for all kinds of wildlife, and are part of the county’s folklore, traditions and our social history. A traditional orchard is defined as an area of tall fruit trees in managed grassland, often grazed by sheep or cattle. Windfalls (unharvested orchard fruit) are consumed throughout the autumn and winter months by many birds, mammals and insects and are available when many foods are scarce. But an orchard is far more than just the fruit it produces and contains many other wildlife habitats. As trees age, they develop crevices and hollows which provide nesting sites, while deadwood left standing and the hollowing of older trees produces material which can be digested by the larvae of many invertebrates. In spring and summer, the grass beneath To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: [email protected] B