Surveys

A total of 26 butterfly species were recorded by two Butterfly Conservation volunteers carrying out transect surveys in woodland to the south of Rougham Estate.  This total of 26 represents 75+% of Suffolk’s 34 butterfly species that have regularly occurred in Suffolk during the last five years ie 2013-2017.  This really good number includes four of Suffolk’s target priority species, notably Small Heath, and species with host-specific larval foodplants: White Admiral, White-Letter Hairstreak and Silver-Washed Fritillary. 

A bat survey carried out by Suffolk Bat Group volunteers in July 2018 to the south of Rougham Estate found the mix of grassland, ponds and woodland to provide good feeding, commuting and roosting habitat for at least eight of the county’s 13 bats including the Barbastelle and Leislers bats. Rougham Estate Trust is committed to improving roosting and insect-rich foraging habitat for Suffolk’s bats.

Juliet Hawkins of Suffolk Wildlife Trust is co-ordinating a series of wildlife surveys around the estate. These surveys will be used to monitor progress in future years.

Anna Saltmarsh carried out a three year plant surveys within the scope of the National Plant Monitoring Scheme.

Present: GA

Major new survey of the Estate woodlands start this month directed by Karen Russell.

Butterfly survey work and sightings in 2014 by Liz Goodyear, Andrew Middleton and Rob Parker. You can see the report online, within 5.3, 5th sub para.

A walk through the woodlands with Juliet Hawkins from Suffolk Wildlife Trust.

Present: GA, CH & KM

Edward Martin and Sally Kington surveyed historic daffodil varieties growing on the Estate and their report can be found by clicking the button.

Present: GA & AW