| RSPB Nagshead | |
|---|---|
Visitor centre |
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| Type | RSPB Reserve |
| Location | Parkend, Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, UK |
| Area | 1,250 acres (510 ha) |
| Operated by | RSPB and Forestry Commission |
| Status | Open all year |
RSPB Nagshead is a woodland reserve, located on the western edge of Parkend, in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire.
More than half of the reserve consists of 19th-century oak woodland, which is now managed solely for its conservation and landscape value.
In 1942, nest boxes were erected, in the hope that Pied Flycatchers would control Oak Leafroller moth larva, which were defoliating trees. These boxes have been continually monitored since 1948, making it the UK's longest-running bird breeding programme.[1][2] Nagshead is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).[3]
Contents |
The reserve is open all year. Entrance and car parking are free.
Facilities include;
Wrens, Buzzards, Redstarts, Pied Flycatchers, and Crossbills are frequently seen in the reserve, but visitors may also spot Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Nuthatches, Redwings, Woodcocks and Wood warblers.
More than 30 different butterflies and 20 dragonflies and damselflies have been seen at Nagshead. 8 of Britain's 12 reptiles and amphibians breed here; Common Lizard, Slow Worm, Adder, Grass Snake, Common Frog, Common Toad, Smooth Newt and Palmate Newt.
Wild boar also roam Nagshead, but these are rarely seen.
RSPB Nagshead Trail Guide (leaflet)