F is for Forests

Beech trees in winter

I love trees, there is just something about them.  Towering high, or just a small sprig trying to make its way, they fascinate me.  There is a particular sound when deep in a forest - not silence, as there is plenty of bird song, but a hushed peace, with the whispers of creaking bark and woodland creatures.  The air is also crisp and often scented.  In spring, flowers such as bluebells grace the paths and on Arran we can see red squirrels darting through the tree tops.

Planted forestry 

The woodland and forests on Arran are varied.  A lot is planted and managed by the Forestry Commission, who now encourage the use of tracks for recreation.  But we also have historic woodland, rows of majestic beach trees and some surreal copses.  Scots pine tower high and in a small corner of the island we have the rare and uniquely found Arran Whitebeam (this is the only place in the world it can be found).

Surreal twirly copses

But its not just the living trees but the fallen ones that provide interest.  Rotting tree stumps are a host to many smaller insects, and huge amounts of fungi, in the autumn.  They can provide obstacle courses and ways to cross streams, not to mention firewood for our homes. While the living ones provide a larder and habitat for the wildlife.  Forests are definitely on of my favourite places.