Hedges

by Robert Wolton

Overview

An absorbing celebration of the ecology, biology and cultural history of the rich hedgerow heritage in the British Isles.

Much of the UK is intensively farmed, and in such landscapes hedges are often the only refuge for wildlife. In addition to providing shelter, protection and food for animals, they also connect and bind together the patches of habitat that do remain, as well as playing vital roles in soil conservation and flood prevention – in short, they are vital for nature's recovery.

In Hedges, Robert Wolton brings together decades of research, while also incorporating personal experiences from his farm in Devon, to explore the ecology, nature conservation and wider environmental values of our hedges. From improving water quality and producing wood fuel as a renewable energy source to the use of hedges in boosting crop pollination, this engaging and authoritative book will help to inspire people to value and look after the remarkably rich hedgerow heritage we have in the British Isles.

Containing more than 300 photographs and figures, this latest addition to the British Wildlife Collection is a comprehensive commentary on hedges and our relationship with them.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781399411714
Publisher:	Bloomsbury USA
Publication date:	05/14/2024
Series:	British Wildlife Collection
Pages:	400
Product dimensions:	6.95(w) x 9.85(h) x 1.35(d)

About the Author

Robert Wolton is an ecological consultant and writer specialising in the management of farmland and associated habitats for wildlife.

Table of Contents

Foreword

Introduction

Definitions and variation

Origins of hedges

History

Reservoirs of wildlife

Hedges as wildlife corridors

Hedgerow trees

The shrub layer and its wildlife

The wildlife of hedge bottoms, margins and ditches

Extent, losses and present condition

Traditional purposes

Hedges for cleaner water, soil conservation and less flooding

Hedges for crop pollination and pest control

Hedges for carbon storage and wood fuel

Management

Conclusion

Acknowledgements

Further reading and resources

Illustration credits

Index

Editorial Reviews

Robert Wolton is one of those rare people who combines a scientific understanding of ecology with highly pertinent practical experience plus an ability to communicate in an engaging way … such a thoroughly well-written, illustrated and researched book is a joy to read.” —British Wildlife

“This book tells you everything you want to know, especially about the birds that need these vital habitats and the vast amount of insects that rely on them … Another one for the bookcase of anyone with an interest in conservation. This series is growing and growing, and it really does take some beating.” —Bird Watching

“Comprehensive, easy to read and full of facts and superb pictures.” —Scottish Forestry

From the Publisher