Grassland management on Banstead Commons

The UK has lost 97% of its wildflower meadows since the second world war  We are proud that Natural England have judged that the grassland areas on the Banstead Commons are in favourable condition  Our dedicated management has enabled rare and vulnerable chalk-loving plants and animals to return and flourish Approximately half of the 1350 acres of Banstead Commons is designated "priority" grassland  Two of our chalk downland sites –...

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Oak Processionary Moth

Oak Processionary Moth (OPM) caterpillars are now active and can be seen on the trunk and branches of oak trees on Banstead Downs and Banstead Heath  The caterpillars feed and live exclusively on oak trees and defoliate the trees OPM caterpillars and their nests contain hairs that can cause itchy rashes, eye and throat irritations, and should not be touched under any circumstances at any time The greatest risk period is May to July when the...

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