THE IMPACT OF LARGE HERBIVORES ON THE CONSERVATION OF SEMINATURAL WOODS IN THE BRITISH UPLANDS

This review considers the history of woodland grazing and the grazing ecology of large herbivores in the context of the conservation of semi-natural woods in the British uplands. The impact that grazing has on natural regeneration is frequently highlighted but its effects on other vegetation, particularly the balance between bryophytes and higher plants are equally important. Grazing also influences both invertebrate and vertebrate populations through its effect on vegetation structure. A low level of grazing by large herbivores in woodland provides a greater diversity in vegetation structure and species composition than either the current prevalence of overgrazing or the absence of grazing in fenced woods. Low levels of grazing may also create conditions for the highest diversity of both plants and animals. The practical problems of managing woodland grazing are addressed in relation to conservation objectives for upland woods. Rotational grazing, seasonal grazing and reducing the overall levels of grazing in a wood are identified as possible management options. Further work on these is however needed and topics for future research are identified. © 1990, Oxford University Press. All rights reserved.