East of England

Explore our orchards and the wonderful things
that live there

We want people to observe and learn to identify some of the less common plant and animal species that live in the region’s fruit orchards.

Extraordinary species
Discover the mosses, liverworts, lichens and fungi that grow on and around different varieties of fruit trees. We hope to help everyone develop an appreciation of the beauty of these less commonly studied organisms.

Get involved - Orchard investigations
Join us as we explore the wildlife within local fruit-growing sites. Afterwards you can use microscopes and digital photography to help identify and record what you have found. To find out more or to register your interest please contact opaleastofengland@herts.ac.uk.

Field guides
We will also produce simple guides to the wildlife and plants that can be spotted in orchards to inform your own explorations and bring these habitats alive.

Orchards in the East of England

The East of England is famous for its orchards and long history of growing fruit. Some historic orchards, particularly apple, have trees well over 100 years old. The continued use and varied management of orchards make them very interesting habitats.

The fruit growing industry is now much reduced in the region, however, community orchards are being planted, and traditional orchards are being managed for conservation as well as for fruit production. Natural England is currently developing a Habitat Action Plan for Traditional Orchards within the UK Biodiversity Action Plan

Contact us
opaleastofengland@herts.ac.uk.

OPAL East of England is led by the University of Hertfordshire
East of England partners: British Bryological Society, British Lichen Society, British Mycological Society, Bergh Apton Conservation Trust, Norfolk Wildlife Trust, Lee Valley Regional Park