In the pink

Old Sulehay Forest was looking its best for today's Peterborough Local Group Bluebell walk - and luckily the rain held off although it was very overcast and rather chilly! 

Sweeps of Bluebell, Ramsons and Wood Anemone were the visual highlights, but we also saw many other plants of interest including six species of fern: Bracken, Male-fern, Scaly Male-fern, Broad Buckler-fern, Hard Shield-fern and Lady Fern. Other botanical jewels included Herb-paris (on Mucky Ride hiding among the Dewberry), Wood Spurge and Toothwort, with fifty-one flowering spikes counted in a short stretch near the northern boundary of the wood.  We also spotted this remarkably pink-flushed clone of Wood Anemone.

There was plenty of bird-song including many very loud and repetitive Chiffchaffs, and the more melodious Blackcaps and Willow Warblers. We were lucky to hear a Cuckoo several times, although nobody actually spotted it!

As we went round we discussed the history of the wood including the Medieval practice of coppicing,  the use of oak to supply timber for Royal Navy ships, and use of the site as a Prisoner-of-War camp at the end of the Second World War. Everyone seemed to have a good time and the home-made cake was enjoyed by all!