Ostler's Plantation facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ostler's Plnatation |
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Pines in Ostler's Plantation
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| Map | |
 Location in England
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| Geography | |
| Location | Lincolnshire, United Kingdom |
| Coordinates | 53°08′46″N 0°10′52″W / 53.146°N 0.181°W |
| Elevation | 15-20m |
| Administration | |
| Established | 19th Century |
| Governing body | Forestry Commission |
Ostler's Plantation is a lovely woodland owned by the Forestry Commission. It's located right next to Woodhall Spa in Lincolnshire, England. This forest is open to everyone and is a popular spot for outdoor activities. It sits near the Kirkby Moor Nature Reserve, and both areas are known for their wild animals, including adders.
Contents
Discovering Ostler's Plantation: A Woodland History
How the Plantation Began
Ostler's Plantation started as a planted forest in the early 1800s. A man named John Parkinson first planted trees here. At that time, this area was mostly open moorland.
Changing Owners and Wartime Use
After John Parkinson faced financial difficulties in 1827, his former agent, William Ostler, took over the land. This is how the plantation got its name! Later, during World War II in 1942, RAF Woodhall Spa was built nearby. Some parts of the woodland were used for military buildings, like bomb storage areas. You can still see some of these old ruins and tracks today.
The Plantation Today: A Place for Everyone
Today, the Forestry Commission owns Ostler's Plantation. It's still a working forest where trees are grown and harvested. However, it's also a fantastic place for the public to enjoy. You can visit the woodland all year round. It's a popular spot for walking, horse riding, and cycling. Sometimes, there are even organized mountain biking and archery events held here.
Wildlife at Ostler's Plantation: Understanding Adders
Meeting the Adders
Ostler's Plantation and the nearby Kirkby Moor Nature Reserve are home to many adders. Adders are a type of snake found in the UK. They are usually shy and try to avoid people. It's important to remember that adders are a protected species. This means they are an important part of the local ecosystem.
Staying Safe Around Wildlife
While adders are generally not aggressive, they can bite if they feel threatened. This is why it's always best to observe wildlife from a distance. If you are walking in the woods, especially with pets, it's a good idea to stay on marked paths. This helps protect both you and the animals living there. If you ever see an adder, just admire it from afar and let it be.
