An Oxfordshire nature reserve known for its orchids and rare wildlife is to be dedicated to The Queen to mark the Platinum Jubilee.
Warburg Nature Reserve, a hidden gem in the Chiltern Hills just north of Henley, is one of 70 Ancient Woodlands and 70 Ancient Trees which will comprise the Ancient Canopy to celebrate Her Majesty’s 70 years of service.
The Prince of Wales launched the initiative in his capacity as Patron of The Queen’s Green Canopy Project.
The reserve is owned and managed by the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (BBOWT), and is said to be the organisation’s richest site for orchids.
It is home to pyramidal orchids, insect-mimicking fly orchids and the unusual bird’s-nest orchid, which draws its energy from tree roots, rather than the sun.
A significant swathe of Warburg Nature Reserve now forms part of the Bix Bottom site of special scientific interest (SSSI). An allocation made in recognition of the reserve’s conservation value, particularly its botanical diversity.
Additionally, the reserve plays host to much wildlife, including lizards, grass snakes, weasels, rare butterflies and hazel dormice.
Estelle Bailey, Chief Executive of BBOWT, said: “We are honoured and delighted thar Warburg has been chosen as part of the Ancient Canopy to celebrate Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee.
“This site is indeed one of the jewels in our crown, and a precious gem that is open to everyone who wants to come and marvel at its treasures.”
On announcing the 70 Ancient Woodlands plan, The Queen’s Green Canopy Project said they represented ‘the diverse canopy of the four nations’ and were ‘a celebration of living heritage’. Many were selected because they were ‘symbols of community pride’, ‘places to connect socially’ or ‘vital spaces for health and wellbeing activities’.
His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales said: “The ancient woodlands and trees can be found in urban as well as rural environments, from national Parks to residential areas, representing the unique diversity of all corners of the United Kingdom.
“Trees and woodlands have a profound significance for us all – their steadfast and reassuring presence a reminder of our long serving sovereign and her enduring dedication.”
Warburg Nature Reserve was acquired by BBOWT in 1967. The purchase would not have been possible were it not for the monumental fundraising efforts of local schoolteacher and amateur naturalist Vera Paul.
Vera recognised the area was a unique place with its own microclimate, fostering great diversity of wildlife.
The reserve was eventually named after DR. EF Warburg, a well-known botanist and the University of Oxford.
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