Coppett's Wood and Scrublands facts for kids
Coppett's Wood and Scrublands is a wonderful natural area in the London Borough of Barnet, located between Muswell Hill and Friern Barnet. It covers about 14.5 hectares, which is like 35 football fields! This special place is considered a very important site for nature conservation. It's also part of the Coppett's Wood and Glebelands Local Nature Reserve, meaning it's protected for its wildlife and plants.
This area is home to many different kinds of plants and animals. The main trees you'll see are strong oak and hornbeam trees. On the ground, you might spot beautiful bluebells and garlic mustard. Many birds also make their homes here, including busy woodpeckers, wise tawny owls, and quick sparrowhawks.
There's also a small pond where you can find bright yellow irises. Look closely, and you might see common frogs and smooth newts swimming around. The "Scrublands" part of the reserve has many different types of habitats. It even has some rare plants, like the imperforate St John's-wort, and several rare kinds of insects.
A Look Back in Time
Coppett's Wood has a long and interesting history. It was once part of a much bigger forest called Finchley Wood. By the 1500s, the forest had become smaller and was known as a "common." This meant it was land that everyone could use.
In the 1600s and 1700s, people used the common for all sorts of activities. They held bare-knuckle boxing matches, horse races, and even pigeon shooting. It also had a bit of a wild reputation as a place where highwaymen, who were like old-time robbers, used to hide.
Later, in the 1800s, a sewage works was built on the site. This plant treated wastewater. It closed down in 1963, but its history still affects the land today. The old sewage works helped create the rich variety of plants you see in the Scrublands. During the Second World War, the wood was used for military training. You can still see some old tank traps from that time!
Visiting Coppett's Wood
It's easy to visit Coppett's Wood and Scrublands. You can find access points from Colney Hatch Lane and the North Circular Road. It's a great place to explore nature and enjoy the outdoors.
Helping the Reserve
A group called the Coppetts Wood Conservationists works hard to keep the nature reserve healthy. They meet on Sunday mornings throughout the year. Their goal is to maintain the area, help more plants and animals thrive, and enjoy some fun exercise together. It's a great way to help protect local wildlife!
Gallery
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Coppett's Wood path
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Scrublands
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Pond at Coppett's Wood
