Rushbeds Wood is a BBOWT nature reserve 7 miles southeast of Bicester. It includes a large area of ancient woodland, though as this was mostly felled in the 1940s, it only contains a few mature Oaks. The woodland is damp and tussocky, and butterflies and other wildlife abound. The reserve also includes a series of damp wildflower meadows with interesting flora and important hedgerows.
We will wander through the woodland to the meadows, exploring both areas for their summer butterflies and day-flying moths. We will spend some time focusing on the hedgerows in the hope of finding the rare Brown Hairstreak as well as a range of other wildlife.
Accessibility & risks: paths are flat but often soft, especially after rain. Gates, bench, some roots and other trip hazards. Please check for ticks after the walk and let the leader know if you have picked up any ticks. (Tick advice)
Meet at the reserve car park, 1.25 miles south of Ludgershall, 100m before Boarstall-Wotton Underwood Road. Through gate and over the railway bridge. Please note there is a vehicle height barrier at the entrance.
Postcode: HP18 0RU
What3Words: clusters.whoever.newlywed
Peter Philp
07434 652770
guided-walks@upperthames-butterflies.org.uk
