Hedgerows
Hedgerows, especially those that are ancient or rich in woody species, provide valuable habitats for wildlife and are a key component of our cultural and landscape heritage in Britain. They are especially important for butterflies and moths, many species of birds, bats and dormice. Ancient hedgerows are generally defined as those which were in existence before the Enclosure Acts, passed mainly between 1720 and 1840 in Britain. These tend to support the greatest diversity of plants and animals. Some ancient hedgerows are remnants of ancient woodland and act as a refuge for woodland plants and ancient trees. Species-rich hedgerows are those which contain an average of 5 or more native woody species in a 30 metre length, or 4 or more in northern England and upland Wales.
Hedgerows are found throughout the countryside areas of the Tees Valley. The Wildflower Ark has carried out extensive hedgerow surveys in the boroughs of Stockton and Redcar and Cleveland. East Cleveland has a particularly large number of ancient/species-rich hedgerows, many of which are of high interest for wildlife and as landscape features.
