Beech trees cast a dark shade in summer, so few plants are able to grow under mature beech which gives this type of woodland its unique feel. The bare ground is covered in fallen leaves from the year before, plus mosses and ferns and a few other shade-loving plants. It is cooler in the woods, so it is a good place to visit in the heat of the summer. The woods often seem quiet at this time of year as birds are now feeding young and no longer noisily defending their territories.
explore the woods
Our interactive picture below allows you to explore the wildlife living in the summer woods. Click on any of the
magnifying glass symbols to find out more information.
