Exploring Boconnoc’s Ancient Trees and the Wildlife They Support
Boconnoc is home to one of Cornwall’s most remarkable collections of ancient and veteran trees, living monuments that support an extraordinary web of wildlife, fungi, lichens and plant life. Caring for this precious natural heritage is a long-term commitment shared by the Boconnoc estate team, alongside specialist ecologists, conservation organisations and dedicated volunteers. Recently, Tim Kellett of the Ancient Tree Forum joined the Boconnoc team for a discovery walk through the estate’s woods and parkland. The walk told the hidden stories, the ecological value, and the deep history held within these extraordinary trees. Following the walk, Tim sat down with us to answer our questions and share his expert insight into why ancient trees matter, what makes Boconnoc so special, and how careful stewardship today will protect these landscapes for centuries to come. Tim, for those who may not know, what defines an “ancient tree,” and why are they so important to woodland ecology? An ancient tree is one of the oldest of its species. Some species are ancient at different ages; for instance, a birch would need to be around 150 years old, a beech 300 years, an oak 400 years, and a yew (the oldest living of our...
