DISCOVER GILBERT WHITE’S PARADISE…
FLORA OF THE HAMPSHIRE DOWNS
Chalk downland represents some of the finest plant habitat in Britain, and the Hampshire downs are one of the best examples in the country. Naturetrek offer a 3-day botanical weekend exploring many of the finest examples of this outstanding area, from short cropped sward to fine Beech and Yew woodland with an emphasis on plant species, butterflies and other wildlife. Departs Alton 22nd June 2007.
Guests are based in the market town of Alton, from where daily trips are made to the surrounding areas of Selborne and Noar Hill, - Selborne being home of famous 18th century naturalist and ornithologist, Gilbert White. Set out in search of many species of orchid including Bee, Frog Musk and Fly Orchid, as well as the Common Twayblade. Butterflies such as Grizzled and Dingy Skippers, Marbled White and Green Hairstreak all occur, Lesser Whitethroat, Turtle Dove and Buzzard add an avian interest to the weekend. A visit to the Iron Age hillfort situated on Old Winchester Hill, the highest point in this National Nature Reserve, offers superb views extending across the River Meon to the coast of the Isle of White. The woodlands of this reserve are a mixture of habitats ranging from Juniper scrub to open, short-cropped sward, home to a wide variety of chalk flowers including Yellow-wort, Horseshoe Vetch and the uncommon Round-headed Rampion. Fragrant Orchid and Greater Butterfly Orchid may also be found here. Explore the ‘Hampshire Hangers’ (north face of the chalk downs) to observe Redstart, Wood Warbler, Great Spotted and Green Woodpecker along with Hobby drifting overhead. White and Green Flowered Helleborine occur amongst the ancient Beech pollards, as well as Dormice (although it would be lucky to catch a glimpse of this sleepy mammal!) A visit to the Gilbert White Museum rounds off the weekend before the tour concludes.
The 3-day tour costs £245 p/p including hotel accommodation, all meals and expertly guided viewing activities with Jon Stokes.
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