Highlights from Green Hill Farm Holiday Village’s Biodiversity Report

We’re thrilled to share the latest findings from our ongoing ecological survey at Green Hill Farm Holiday Village tucked away in Landford in the New Forest. Spanning 30 hectares, our park is home to an incredible array of wildlife-rich habitats, here’s a sneak peek into what ecologist Russell Wynn has discovered so far:

For those unfamiliar, our annual report outlines the ecological surveys and monitoring carried out in 2024 as part of Green Hill Farm’s long-term Biodiversity Enhancement Plan.

• Focus is on the 11 ha ‘conservation fields’, managed for Biodiversity Net Gain, covering one-third of the site.
• Surveys included 52 hours of effort: monthly walkovers, an eight-month trail camera deployment, and a moth survey.
• 141 new species were recorded in 2024, bringing the total to 847 (including 32 priority species); 609 species (20 priority) were found in the conservation fields.
• A breeding bird survey recorded 29 species and 141 territories (15% increase from 2023), including first successful breeding of Stonechats and the first Dartford Warbler record.
• Reptiles included first Slow-worm records in the conservation fields and expanded sightings of Common Lizard and Grass Snake.
• Orchid counts in the conservation fields recorded 5 Bee, 58 Pyramidal, and 507 Southern Marsh Orchids, along with increased numbers of other notable plant species.
• Trail cameras captured notable records including Polecat and Woodcock.
• Rare fungi included the first Wiltshire/New Forest record of Conocybe dentatomarginata (confirmed by DNA) and Scarlet Elf Cup (confirmed by microscopy).
• A nocturnal moth survey recorded Tree-lichen Beauty, and rare species like Gorse Knot-horn and Waste Grass Veneer, suggesting local breeding.
• Management focuses on enhancing grassland-scrub habitats through mowing, invasive control, and species monitoring.
• Guided walks for lodge owners increased awareness; more walks are planned for 2025.

Looking Forward

The 2024-25 biodiversity baseline data sets the stage for future management activities starting in 2026. But before this journey unfolds, download the full report to discover more about what we found.

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