The Nature of Wyre: A Wildlife-Rich Forest in the Heart of Britain

On the borders of Shropshire and Worcestershire, the Wyre Forest is one of Britain’s most important ancient woodlands and its survival, just 25 miles from the centre of Birmingham, is a modern miracle. Its history and geographical position make it home to a stunning array of wildlife from all corners of the British Isles which includes Dippers, Slavemaker Ants and Narrow-leaved Helleborine orchids. Wyre is justifiably known for its Lepidoptera and recent conservation efforts have succeeded in restoring nationally important populations of Pearl-bordered and Small Pearl-bordered Fritillaries. Wood White and Grizzled Skipper also occur along with White Admiral and Silver-washed Fritillary. Wyre is also one of the most significant UK sites for moths and is home to such species as Drab Looper, White-barred Clearwing and the beautiful and very local micro-moth Schiffermuelleria grandis.