Protecting Longwood: Why Tree Damage Threatens Our Wildlife and Biodiversity
Longwood Community Woodland is a place people love for its peace, beauty, and wildlife. But recently, we’ve seen increasing damage caused by visitors nailing or cable‑tying trees together to create makeshift hides, dens, and shelters. Although often done with good intentions, this kind of damage has serious consequences for the health of our woodland and the species that depend on it.
When nails, screws, or cable ties are forced into living trees, they pierce the bark — the tree’s protective skin. This creates open wounds that expose the tree to fungal infections, rot, and disease. Even a single nail can weaken a tree’s natural defences, and repeated damage can shorten its lifespan. Cable ties, meanwhile, slowly tighten as the tree grows, cutting into the bark and restricting the flow of water and nutrients. Over time, this can kill branches or even the entire tree.
The impact doesn’t stop there. Damaged trees become less stable, increasing the risk of falling limbs. This affects nesting birds, bats roosting in cavities, insects living under bark, and the many species that rely on healthy trees for food and shelter. In Longwood, where biodiversity is one of our greatest strengths, every damaged tree represents a loss to the wider ecosystem.
Artificial hides and dens also disrupt natural wildlife behaviour. When structures are built in sensitive areas, animals may avoid them entirely. This reduces feeding opportunities, disturbs breeding sites, and pushes species into less suitable habitats. For ground‑nesting birds, small mammals, and invertebrates, this disturbance can be devastating.
We know people build these structures because they feel connected to the woodland — and that’s something we value deeply. But the best way to enjoy Longwood is to leave no trace. If you want to watch wildlife, use natural cover, stay quiet, and allow the woodland to remain wild.
Protecting Longwood means protecting every tree. If you see any damage, makeshift structures, or suspicious activity, please report it to Longwood staff immediately. Your vigilance helps us safeguard the woodland and the biodiversity that makes this place so special.