Wildlife and game potential of Short Rotation Coppice in the U.K.

Abstract

This paper considers the habitat potential of short rotation coppice (SRC) willow and poplar plantations for songbirds, pheasants and ground flora. It draws on previous studies on the use by songbirds of SRC plantations and of similar coppice habitats in the UK and in Sweden. Studies of ground flora communities in willow coppice plantations in Sweden and on set-aside land in the UK are discussed. Measurements of crop structure taken from existing SRC sites during the winter were used to assess the likely attractiveness of the crop to pheasants as winter cover.
Structural similarities between SRC, traditional coppice woodland and withy beds, and the known high arthropod abundance associated with willows, suggests the crop will be used by a variety of songbird species, particularly migrant warblers. It is likely that the flora and vegetation of SRC will initially be dominated by farmland weed species from the seed bank and ruderal species characteristic of disturbed habitats. Colonisation by less common woodland species and those associated with traditional coppice habitats may occur. SRC can provide suitable cover for holding pheasants during the winter shooting season.