Betula sp. (Birch) are common invasive species on Waldridge Fell and lowland heathland in general. During successional processes away from heathland a series of invasive stages unfolds with Betula sp. often occupying a later stage of habitat alteration.

 

On the Waldridge site however, managment strategies are utilized to minimize the risk of habitat dominance by non-heathland species and Betula. frequently occur at the fell margins, without widespread competition with heathland natives such as Calluna and Erica species.

 

A range of Betula sp. are found at Waldridge including B. pendula (Silver Birch),

B. pubescens (Downy Birch) and Betula x aurata (B. pendula/pubescens cross) on both North and South Fell sites. They dominate in several of the woodland areas.

 

Where population densities become too high, felling of Birch is necessary to prevent uncontrolled spread onto open heathland where direct competion with heathland species can occur and where there is potential for alterations to the delicate heathland soil chemical balance via actions of the root systems.

 

 

 

 

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