But a piece written by my friend and colleague Mike Russell, at Sussex Wildlife Trust, a month or so ago on hedges is of interest. We don't have any proper hedges on the reserve, but we ought to manage the gappy bits that are left - as Mike comments below. But, as always, we have a lack of bodies to help, and can just manage to cope with the trees, rides, footpaths, heather and maintenance.

Mike writes: "Hedgerows are man-made feature of the countryside but have become very important habitats for wildlife. They have developed over the centuries as a need to provide quick-growing stock-proof barriers for which the hawthorn and blackthorn were the main constituents. Other species such as elder, crab apple and spindle provided food and materials for the local population and so hedges became a vital part of the local economy.

"Because hedges consist of native species they host a wide range of insect species that in turn provide food for lots of birds and animals as well as secure nesting sites. Another important function is that they act as highways which stretch between other habitats such as woodlands and marshlands, enabling wildlife to move from one place to another safely under cover.

"Although Sussex still has a good network of hedges it nevertheless has suffered decline in the last 50 years. Fencing erected alongside hedges end up replacing them, as they become gappy through lack of management. Managing hedgerows, although needed infrequently, is time-consuming and labour intensive and not therefore in tune with today's efficient agricultural practices."

A survey of the county's hedgerows is taking place this summer by the Sussex Biodiversity Record Centre. I have helped by logging our local hedge - how about you? Phone for info and a survey form on 01273 497553, or use e-mail at hedgerows@sussexwt.co.uk. The website is www.sxbrc.org.uk>.

John Hall © 2002