Burnham Beeches: The History, Ecology and Management of a National Nature Reserve

Bow, stubborn oaks! bow, graceful planes! Ye match not Burnham Beeches. —Henry Luttrell (c.1765–1851) Long immortalised in poetry, painting and as an atmospheric setting for scenes in numerous major films, Burnham Beeches in Buckinghamshire is an iconic nature reserve. Hosting a wide range of habitats, including wood-pasture, forest, heathland and mire, the site is both a SSSI and a Special Area of Conservation. This book celebrates its unique character and examines the breadth of biodiversity to be found here. The various habitats at Burnham Beeches are richly illustrated and described in detail, with discussion of some their most notable species – many of which are rare and threatened. There is also an outline of the fascinating history of the reserve. Past and present management is covered, as well as current and future issues such as funding cuts and climate change. Specific techniques in focus include managing veteran pollard trees, conservation grazing, heathland and mire restoration, and biological monitoring. The challenges of accommodating large numbers of visitors on sensitive sites is also considered in detail. Aimed at nature reserve managers and students studying nature conservation, this attractive and informative book will also appeal to interested members of the public.