A Little Background Info

The majority of images displayed on this site were taken in and around England’s smallest and newest National Park, the New Forest.

Situated in southwest Hampshire and covering approximately 570 Km2 the New Forest boasts a wide range of habitats. Waders and wildfowl frequent the coastal boundary to the south with migrants swelling numbers in Spring and the Autumn. This area comprises of estuarine mudflats with brackish ponds and lagoons, through to open shingle shore. Further inland can be found open heathland with bracken, gorse, and various species of heather interspersed with expanses of forest lawn grazed by ponies and deer. In lower areas the heathland turns wetter and here can be found important extensive areas of bog.

The many woods and coppices comprise mainly of ancient beech and oak, interspersed with managed coniferous areas of mainly Scots pine.

Deer are particularly well represented with five species to be found. Native red deer and roe deer can be viewed with stealth and patience. However, it is the fallow deer that predominates and is therefore most likely to be seen. In a few areas sika and muntjac can also be found. Foxes and badgers are widespread and are most likely to be seen during the Spring when cubs of both species venture above ground.

The Forest resident bird population also increases every Spring and Autumn with the influx of migrants. Some take up residence for the Summer, while others stop briefly before continuing north to their breeding grounds. Bird numbers again swell in the Autumn when the returning birds stop to feed up before making the long journey south.

With such a diverse range of habitats in a relatively small area, the range of flora and fauna available to see and photograph in and around the New Forest is indeed vast.