Regional variation in the origin, extent and composition of Scottish Woodland

Abstract

Summary Results from the Nature Conservancy Council's Inventory of Ancient Woodland show regional variations in the extent, origin and composition of Scottish woods and the degree to which they are recognized as important sites for nature conservation. Around 14.5% of Scotland is forested but not more than 2% of the land area is ancient woodland. Nearly half of the ancient area has been replanted, mainly with introduced conifers. Thus the area retaining ancient semi-natural woodland covers just 1 % of Scotland. Woodland within Sites of Special Scientific Interest or nature reserves covers 38,154 ha. The majority of this is ancient semi-natural woodland, but 68% of the total ancient semi-natural woodland area is not so protected. The value for nature conservation of many ancient sites has declined because of the extent of replanting and overgrazing. Recent beneficial changes in land use policies and practices need to be continued to prevent further decline in the nature conservation value of these important woods.