The Wild Side of Calke Park - A Masters Project

calke park

by

of

t h e wild side

clare lusher

Contents AN INTRODUCTION TREES OF CALKE S.S.S.I. WILD FLORA OF CALKE FUNGI OF CALKE INVERTEBRATES OF CALKE BIRDS OF CALKE MAMMALS OF CALKE A WORKING ESTATE HOUSE & GARDENS

7 8 22 30 46 56 74 88 104 110

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS BIBLIOGRAPHY EXIF DATA

124 126 130

4 RIGHT: Calke’s grassland habitat as seen at sunrise

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an introduction As the final project for my Masters degree in Biological Photography and Imaging at the University of Nottingham I chose to study the flora and fauna of the National Trust’s Calke Abbey estate. The subject is presented here as a standalone book for readers to enjoy and use as a guide to some of Calke’s wildlife.

Calke Park has a number of habitats to study including woodland edge, grassland, riparian, ancient trees and deadwood. It is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a National Nature Reserve (NNR). It also contains historic buildings and walled gardens, most of which harbour their own wildlife and photographic interest.

The subject is broken down into smaller sections based on phylum and class, and discusses habitat, relevant conservation implications and natural history. I look at some of Calke’s ancient oak trees and the threats they may face. Images of wildflowers found at Calke offer a more detailed appreciation. I look at the worrying decline in flora in Britain. A similar section on insects and other invertebrates looks at them from a macro level and discusses recent population decline. I have photographed birds on the estate and included some discussion and images. I take a look at the agricultural animals as well as photographing some of the other mammals found at Calke including resident deer. Finally, there is a brief glimpse into the house and gardens.

I am pleased to have had the opportunity to study and photograph the flora and fauna of the Calke estate, utilising my own photography and written research, and layout and editing. Some images were captured in autumn, while many were captured in spring and summer. I hope that this study of the National Trust’s Calke Park estate shines a light on some of the wilder areas of interest and gives the reader a taste of the wildlife and history contained within it.

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LEFT: The rotting fallen trunk of an old Oak. As a feature at Calke it is popular both with humans and animals alike. Children like to play and climb on it, and corvids regularly use it as a perch and lookout platform.

trees of calke Whilst this book covers quite a few species of animals and plants, it can only attempt to touch the surface of the rich diversity thriving within the National Trust Calke Abbey estate.

Each area encompasses a different habitat and brings with it unique groups of species. By exploring Calke Abbey on a micro level - by carefully lifting stones, rotting wood and leaves to see what may be underneath - and on a macro level by quietly walking in and appreciating its natural, green spaces and historical elements, it is possible to achieve a snapshot of species present and natural history of the estate, as presented in this study.

Calke’s Ancient Trees Britain has lost much of its wild spaces - it may be argued that there are no true wild spaces left in Britain as land is now universally owned and managed by individuals, organisations or business interests, although some areas of the UK’s 15 national parks may be considered relatively wild and untouched. Calke Park is no exception

in that it is a managed estate owned by the National Trust and, as such, is carefully monitored and maintained.

Calke’s many native tree species include Pedunculate Oak (Quercus robur), Horse Chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum), Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), Small-leaved Lime (Tilia cordata), Common Beech (Fagus sylvatica), Purple Beech (Fagus sylvatica f. purpurea), Common Alder (Alnus glutinosa), Sweet Chestnut (Castanea saviva) and Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus). Consequently, there is a huge amount of biodiversity at Calke associated with a rich array of tree species and woodland habitats.

Britain is one of the least wooded areas of Europe at 13% woodland cover. One million hectares of the 13% of woodland cover is estimated to be native woodland. The Woodland Trust’s 2011 report on the state of the UK’s forests discusses the benefits of tree cover, citing the role of woodland in climate change mitigation and delivery of ecosystem services.

8 RIGHT: Purple Beech (Fagus sylvatica f. purpurea) in summer leaf

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The Woodland Trust suggest expansion of forestry and woodland conservation in Britain, and they highlight the current overall decline in woodland habitat. They state there is a necessity for governments to recognise the multiple benefits of maintaining forests, woods and trees and to implement suitable policies to protect them.

The Woodland Trust also recommend that it is vital that the general public understand the threats to British woodland, and care about and support efforts to conserve woods and trees as vital habitats for wildlife and as having value to the economy. By opening up parkland and woodland to the paying general public, it may be argued that the National Trust fundamentally helps to educate the general public and increase awareness of the value of these habitats.

The National Trust have policies in place to maintain woodland within their many estates, employing professionals and volunteers to carry out felling, clearing, topping, pruning and coppicing of trees. Coppicing can extend the life of trees, opening up the woodland canopy to allow light to

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reach the woodland floor. This allows other species to grow and benefits invertebrates and overall biodiversity.

For example, the majority of Britain’s butterfly species which regularly breed in woodland habitats require open, sunny conditions with minimal shade and ground flora suited to butterfly larvae. Coppicing creates newly cut open, warm areas and dappled shade areas necessary for British butterfly species. Coppicing can also offer suitable habitat and cover for many of our native bird species.

At Calke, dead wood is usually left in situ. Dead horse chestnut and oak offer specific and valuable habitats for deadwood beetle and insect species. Surveys have recorded rare and nationally scarce species not previously recorded in the county, including 13 nationally rare species known to be present in the Calke Abbey parkland. Birds may continue to nest within hollows, including the tawny and little owls recorded on the estate. Habitat piles are left on the ground for invertebrates and small mammals once dead trees have been topped and made safe.

LEFT: Calke deciduous woodland photographed using Intentional Camera Movement (ICM)

Calke’s new ‘Calke Explore’ visitor centre aims to promote active use of the estate by visitors and provides educational facilities for children and adults to help them learn about the various habitats on the estate and the many species which live within each habitat. Nature trails, cycle paths and footpaths all lead from this area.

Calke state that the site for the new facilities was chosen with the aim of having the least impact on the estate’s wildlife.

The 2006 English Nature Report on the estate’s designated SSSI recommended that no trees should be felled within the whole parkland unless deemed necessary, and that all dead trees should remain in situ along with fallen and aerial deadwood. The report also recommended monitoring to ensure tree health within the parkland and to ensure surveys for saproxylic invertebrate communities are continued. Efforts by the National

RIGHT: Calke’s Large-leaved Lime tree driveway (Tilia platyphyllos) on a misty early summer morning

Trust to educate everyone using and occupying the parkland to increase awareness of nature conservation issues and good conservation practice were encouraged in the report.

The ‘Calke Explore’ initiative would appear to be a good route into raising public awareness of modern conservation and ecology issues and encourage enjoyment of natural history The 82 trees in the lime avenue were purported to have been planted in 1846 to celebrate the birth of Sir Vauncey Harpur Crewe. They are an outstanding feature of the Calke estate. Visitors must enter through the main Calke entrance and drive through extensive parkland which runs along either side of the lime tree avenue, passing beneath large trees which have become well-established in the preceding 150 years.

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ABOVE: Large-leaved Lime tree (Tilia platyphyllos) in flower, renowned for being sweetly scented RIGHT: Sweet Chestnut (Castanea sativa) in summer flower

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The Oaks at Calke The oldest oak tree at Calke Abbey is commonly referred to as ‘The Old Man of Calke’. It is estimated to be approximately 1,200 years old based on measurements of circumference of the trunk at over 10 metres. As such it is a relic of Calke’s ancient woodland and wood-pasture status. This tree and its nearby ancient oak neighbours continue to produce healthy leaf growth and acorns annually.

Pedunculate Oak (Quercus robur) is a keystone species, playing a vital role in ecosystem function relative to its abundance. These are species which maintain the population stability of many other species. Loss of keystone species can result in a significant decline in species diversity and trophic cascade. Recent research led

by Doctor Ruth Mitchell of the James Hutton Institute’s Ecological Sciences group suggests that approximately 2,300 species including invertebrates, mammals, birds and fungi are associated with oak trees, of which 326 species are obligate associates only found on oak Q. robur and Q. petreae with further numbers

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rarely found on other tree species.

Additionally, older trees sustain a higher number of species than young specimens.

Abundance of a tree species (tree distribution) affects the number of insect species dependant on the tree species; oak is one of the oldest species present in the British Isles and as such has developed a mutualistic relationship with much of our native wildlife. Acari and Eriophyidae (gall mites), Coleoptera (beetles), Diptera (flies), Heteroptera (true bugs) and Homoptera (aphids, scale insects and leafhoppers) and Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) are included in the many invertebrate species found on oak and which are dependant on oak trees for their life cycle, including particularly high numbers of flies, moths and butterflies, and many of the true bug species.

While the oak is the second most common broadleaved tree in Britain, it is not entirely safe from the effects of climate change. Increasing average temperatures in Britain may bring with it new threats to the survival of this iconic native tree species.

LEFT: The Old Man of Calke (Quercus robur). This oak specimen is estimated to be over 1,000 years old. Beneath it a small population of badgers have created a small to medium-sized sett with a number of entrance holes and spoil heap. This specimen continues to produce both leaves and acorns every year.

Climatic extremes are thought to play a role in increasing the incidence and likelihood of oak decline, while insect defoliation and climatic extremes are positively correlated. Drought stress, air pollution and soil chemical stress all contribute to oak decline, many of these exacerbated by climate change.

The aforementioned 2019 study looked at the need for mitigation to lessen the impact of oak decline on associated biodiversity and assessed the use of establishing alternative trees, but of 30 species assessed none of these supported the high levels of oak-associated species. Resilience was seen in woodland communities with the highest diversity of tree species.

Oaks are also under attack from a relatively new bacterial pathogen called Acute Oak Decline (AOD), which primarily affects Q. robur and sessile oak Q. patraea. A common

RIGHT: An ancient Oak tree (Quercus robur). An example of the many old oaks on the Calke estate, this hollow offers shelter and a potential home to numerous animal species. Tree creepers (Certhia familiaris) were observed foraging on its gnarled trunk, grey squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) use it as a means of escape and travel, and it may be that visiting owls use this or other hollows to nest and shelter.

symptom of the disease is the presence of sticky, dark fluid bleeding from cracks in bark in the trunk of the tree, and these may be extensive along the trunk. Infected trees may die within 5 years of first symptoms, with thinning of the canopy occurring as the tree dies back. The Midlands, including Derbyshire, is a hotspot for the disease which has resulted in high tree mortality in recent years. Oak decline (generally poor condition) can occur for many other reasons and may occur over decades, while acute decline can occur quickly and has been linked to the presence of the leaf roller moth Tortrix viridana which can cause defoliation, and a powdery mildew fungus Erysiphe alphitoides.

While many of Calke’s trees will naturally die off, new ones are regularly planted by the National Trust. These will hopefully mature and continue to flourish in the same parkland for many centuries to come.

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Calke’s renowned Large-leaved Lime tree driveway (Tilia platyphyllos) in autumn with extensive leaf litter

S.S.S.I. Calke Park incorporates a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The current areas were designated as a SSSI by English Nature (now DEFRA) in 1992. Additionally, Calke Park is one of Derbyshire’s four National Nature Reserves (NNR), designated in 2004. The NNR includes the ancient deer park at Calke, laid out within 80 hectares of woodland and grassland habitats, and has large numbers of ancient, stag-headed oak trees, lime and beech trees. The estate is owned and managed by the National Trust.

As a designated SSSI, protected areas within Calke Park are of scientific and ecological value, and any damage to them should be prevented.

The Ticknall Limeyards is the primary area of interest within the SSSI. This was once the site of intense industrial activity, where limestone was plentiful. It was quarried for the production of quicklime. Tramways were built to move lime, rocks, bricks and other items through the area using a pony and cart as a method of transport. Lime kilns were built to burn limestone and extract quicklime through a calcination process.

Previously woodland habitat after the

decline of the limeworks in the early 20th century, the open chalk grassland areas within the Ticknall Limeyards SSSI were created by National Trust rangers. Chalk grassland habitat (lowland calcareous grassland) is lime-rich soil, characterised by a thin layer of low nutrient substrate which warms quickly. Such conditions generally prevent dominant longer grass species from establishing, and is instead diverse in smaller, low-growing, lime-loving plant species and associated invertebrates.

These may include small clumpforming grasses, sedges, mosses and herbaceous plants. It is a relatively rare habitat type and may be broken up by areas of woodland edge and riparian habitat such as the one found at Calke.

A flock of Hebridean sheep are kept at Calke and regularly graze the area to prevent succession which would result in a return to woodland habitat.

As a rare habitat, it often supports rare species. Orchids can be found at Calke’s SSSI including the Common Spotted Orchid (Dactylorhiza fuchsii) and Fragrant Orchid (Gymnadenia conopsea sensu stricto).

22 RIGHT: Bee orchid (Ophrys apifera) in flower

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In previous years over 5,000 common spotted orchids have been counted in the limeyards during annual surveys, along with 316 fragrant orchids.

Bee orchids (Ophrys apifera) appear to grow alternate years, with few growing this year.

Calke Park’s SSSI provides habitats for saproxylic invertebrates (invertebrates dependant on dead or decaying wood) including rare, scarce and vulnerable species of beetle (Coleoptera), flies (Diptera) and bees, wasps and ants (Hymenoptera) and, as such, is of high conservation value for its assemblages of saproxylic invertebrates.

Rare and scarce beetle species have been recorded within the SSSI, and 13 more species recorded within the wider estate. Species recorded include wood decay Dipterans such as the bumblebee mimic hoverfly Pocota personata, a species which looks remarkably like a bee. The lemon bands across the thorax and

abdomen make it easily identifiable to entomologists. This scarce species is associated with veteran trees in woodland and parkland habitats.

Larvae develop within damp rot holes at height within decaying wood, which is why Calke’s abundant deadwood habitats are so fundamental to the conservation of this and other saproxylic invertebrates.

Saproxylic species recorded at Calke include rare Coleopterans Hypophlaeus unicolor (a deep red darkling beetle with a black head), Nemozoma elongatum (black with red/orange markings and a distinctly elongated pronotum) and Lymexylon navale (a rare beetle listed as vulnerable, black head with reddishblack elongated elytra). Saproxylic Dipterans recorded at Calke include the earliest record of the nationally scarce hoverfly species - recorded in the Ticknall Limeyards - the Rothole Dronefly (Mallota cimbiciformis) and the endangered Green Forest Hoverfly (Caliprobola speciosa).

25 LEFT: Common Spotted Orchid (Dactylorhiza fuchsii)

Calke’s parkland habitats are also shown to be important for wooddecay dependant solitary wasps and false scorpion (Pseudoscorpionida) species including Chyzer’s Shining Claw (Lamprochernes chyzeri) recorded in 2004, and epiphyte associated barkflies (Psocoptera) including the scarce species Loensia variegata.

In its 2006 report, English Nature (DEFRA) describes Calke as wellmanaged for conservation. It states that Calke is “the best managed parkland within the National Trust’s ownership” and is recorded as being in good ecological condition throughout the park, although wider tenanted areas were considered

RIGHT: Meadow Brown butterfly (Maniola jurtina) abundant in one of Calke’s chalk grassland conservation areas

in poor condition. Additionally, the report recommends the SSSI boundary should be reviewed to encompass areas currently outside the SSSI which are of special scientific interest.

In recent years, work has been carried out by the National Trust to open up the Ticknall Limeyards areas and make them safe and suitable for walkers and visitors. More visitors now frequent the historical old limeyards and can enjoy the paths which take them through woodland edge habitat and into the flooded lime pits and open chalk grassland areas where bats can be spotted skimming the water whilst foraging during late summer evenings.

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The flooded lime pits have become a diverse riparian habitat for invertebrates, mammals and fish species within the Ticknall Limeyards Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

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wild flora of calke Decline of invertebrate populations in Britain reflects the loss of wildflower meadows and the ongoing cleansing of roadside verges and patches of land cleared by councils. The Weeds Act 1959 was an act brought in to encourage councils to maintain verges to avoid injury to pedestrians and to attempt to remove Ragwort (Jacobaea vulgaris) from public land.

Despite its high value as a foodplant to over 70 insect species, ragwort is vilified by farmers and horseowners. It is considered a potential risk to horses and cattle as it contains alkaloids, although poisoning is rare.

It is one example of an important native wildflower plant which has drastically declined in localised areas due to public policy, resulting in loss of biodiversity. Ragwort is a valuable wildflower for pollinating species including bees and hoverflies, but is also favoured by lepidopterans.

Much of Calke’s land is used for grazing cattle and sheep. These areas are surrounded by woodland edge and grassland habitats which have

an abundance of wildflowers. Calke’s specialised chalk grassland habitat and open parkland allow spaces and niches for wildflowers to grow. As an SSSI, these areas of Calke are sensitively managed with the aim of conserving plant and invertebrate species. While wildflower meadows need to be cut once a year, this can be done sympathetically with the aim of preserving biodiversity and minimising impact to pollinating insects. Calke appear to have planted additional areas of common, colourful wildflowers in the walled kitchen garden areas to encourage insects and equally delight visitors with colourful displays.

Within Calke’s woodland edge habitat Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum) - a shade-loving herbaceous plant - can be found along pathway edges as well other shade-lovers such as Harts-tongue Fern (Asplenium scolopendrium) and the colourful autumn berries of Lords-and-Ladies (Arum maculatum) which prefers a damp, sheltered location.

30 RIGHT: Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum)

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LEFT: English bluebell (Hyacinthoides non-scripta) ABOVE: Forget-me-not (Myosotis arvensis)

ABOVE: Harts-tongue Fern (Asplenium scolopendrium) RIGHT: Macro photograph of Bracken (Pteridium aquilinum) unfurling in spring. Bracken is Britain’s most widespread and abundant fern species. At Calke it makes up a large percentage of growth within its woodland and grassland habitats, including within the deer park.

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Within the grassland habitats and parkland, wildflower species recorded included Meadow Buttercup (Ranunculus acris), Lesser Stitchwort (Stellaria graminea), Marsh Thistle (Cirsium palustre) and Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica), which was colonised

by Peacock butterfly larvae. Red Campion (Silene dioica) was abundant on pathway edges leading towards the Ticknall Limeyards. Within the limeyards orchids were found growing throughout the chalk grassland surrounding the flooded lime pits, most numerously the Common Spotted Orchid (Dactylorhiza fuchsii).

97% of Britain’s wildflower meadows have been destroyed as a result of the intensification of agriculture since the 1950s. Research shows clear correlations between pollinator insect declines and loss of vascular plants as a food source. Drivers for this loss include habitat fragmentation and habitat loss, invasive species, chemical controls and climate change. These drivers may interact to cause further species decline and localised extinctions. Calke is a relatively constant environment of niche habitats which are not

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disrupted or changed significantly, which may mean consistent wildflower populations over time and a reliable source of food for local insect populations.

Zealous tidying up of urban and semi-urban areas has driven declines in species richness and abundance of wildflowers, which has a negative impact on invertebrates by denying them vital food sources in early spring and late summer. Urbanisation and loss of grassland and parkland is a driver for plant species loss and local extinctions. Similar losses have occurred as a result of agricultural intensification and changes in land usage.

Research shows evidence of declines in bee species in Britain and divergent declines in hoverfly species. These declines were most frequent in habitat and flower specialists. Results suggest plant species reliant on declining pollinators have also declined, relative to other plant species, suggesting a causal connection between declines and local extinctions in functionally linked plant and pollinator species.

LEFT: Macro photograph of the bright pink flower of the somewhat inaccurately named Red Campion (Silene dioica). This native wildflower can grow up to a metre tall but the flowers are small at approximately 20mm in diameter. It is an important wildflower for pollinators including bees and hoverflies, and grows abundantly on path edges at Calke Abbey in late spring and summer.

ABOVE: Cuckoo Flower / Lady’s Smock (Cardamine pratensis) RIGHT: Common Spotted Orchid (Dactylorhiza fuchsii) found in abundance in the Ticknall Limeyards

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LEFT: Foxgloves (Digitalis purpurea) growing in grassland habitat ABOVE: Macro photograph of Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) flowers showing petal and fine hair detail

Throughout this study, Calke’s pond habitats were found to have Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) growing around the edges of Betty’s Pond and tall swathes of Rosebay Willowherb (Chamerion angustifolium) alongside Hogweed/Cow Parsnip (Heracleum sphondylium), all of which attracted a diverse range of invertebrates including hoverflies and smaller Coleopterans.

In the areas inhabited by rabbits and grazed by sheep, Common Sorrel (Rumex acetosa subsp. Acetosa) was abundant in June and early July. As well as these, various grass species

RIGHT: Spear Thistle (Cirsium vulgare). Marsh Thistle (Cirsium palustre) are abundant at Calke.

were noted including Wavy-hair Grass (Deschampsia flexuosa), Wood Melick (Melica uniflora), Smooth Meadow Grass (Poa pratensis) and Quaking Grass (Briza media).

Calke appears to offer a relatively untouched landscape, unchanged within the last 200 years or more, with the addition of historic tree planting which now yields mature lime trees and veteran oaks to act as shelter for shade-loving plants and deadwood for fungi species. As such it is a haven for much of the local native wildlife and wildflower species.

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Wavy-hair Grass (Deschampsia flexuosa) growing in grassland habitat 44

fungi of calke Calke’s veteran and mature, freestanding trees offer high quality habitat. Their open situation means that light can reach most areas of the trees to the benefit of invertebrates.

Lower aerial branches, which may die off as the tree ages, are kept sheltered and moist and are then colonised by fungi species suited to exploiting the deadwood habitat.

Most of the saproxylic invertebrate fauna found at Calke are dependent on fungi and micro-organisms to break down dying wood into more digestible components. These include the important heartwood decay fungi which break down the core of dead and dying wood inside living trees.

This produces important deadwood habitat within living, healthy trees.

Calke has increased prevalence of heartwood decay fungi species, which includes species in the Ganoderma genus of polypore fungi, often referred to as shelf mushrooms or bracket fungi. These can be seen in various locations around Calke’s woodland and parkland habitats (see page 49).

Other species recorded as part of the Natural England 2004 survey of the site include the Oak Bracket Fungus (Pseudoinonotus dryadeus), also found on beech and alder trees, and the Beefsteak fungus (Fistulina hepatica) which is fairly common in Britain.

Other polypore mushrooms recorded at Calke include Hen-of-the-Woods (Grifola frondosa), found in late summer and early autumn at the base of tree trunks, and similarly named Chicken-of-the-woods (Laetiporus sulphureus), both of which are edible to humans when cooked.

Many of the fungi species noted during this study had been nibbled on by small mammals and were often occupied by invertebrates, usually dipteran species.

Oak Polypore (Piptoporus quercinus) primarily grows on veteran oaks (Quercus spp. and usually Q. robur) and is rare throughout its distribution range, most likely due to the lack of ancient oak trees in open situations such as those found at Calke, which is a limiting factor for its distribution.

46 RIGHT: Wood Mushroom (Agaricus silvicola)

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ABOVE: Early stage Diatrypella sp. 2-4 mm in diameter.

RIGHT: Southern Bracket Fungus (Ganoderma australe)

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The Oak Polypore is protected under Schedule 8 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act. The fungi was recorded at Calke in 2005 and is reported in the Natural England 2004 SSSI survey of Calke.

roots, bark and dying trunks. Those recorded for this study included extensive populations of one of the Diatrypella species, possibly Diatrypella quercina. Various rusts were also recorded.

Parasol mushrooms (Macrolepiota procera) appear abundant at Calke and were recorded for this project. Macrolepiota procera is also extremely edible although should be cooked before consumption. Fleshy fungi fruiting bodies such as these offer substantial food for foraging mammals and insects.

Open grown veteran trees such as those found at Calke are of great importance to the conservation of many of the species discussed in this study. Trees provided with the space to develop and grow to full potential and size inherently carry a diverse and abundant number of species and provide the largest wood decay habitat. Therefore Calke’s veteran trees are important for all ‘old growth’ species dependent upon these habitats.

Some of the smaller species, and those occupying a niche as colonisers appeared to cover many branches,

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LEFT: Dryad’s Saddle (Polyporus squamosus) growing on a dying oak

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LEFT: Turkeytail (Trametes versicolor) ABOVE: Later stage Diatrypella sp. on dead oak. 2-4 mm in diameter.

Parasol Mushroom (Macrolepiota procera) found on a sunny day growing in grassland habitat near to deadwood. These mushrooms are entirely edible although not recommended raw.

invertebrates of calke While Calke utilises much of its land for grazing of agricultural animals, these areas are surrounded by woodland, grassland and riparian habitats sensitively managed with conservation of plant and invertebrate species as a priority, in particular within the designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and National Nature Reserve (NNR).

Calke’s woodland and parkland habitats are vital to the conservation of many native invertebrate species, as are all of Britain’s remaining parkland, grassland, heathland and woodland habitats. 71% of butterfly species over a period of 20 years have declined in Britain alone. Studies estimate a 76% seasonal decline and an 82% mid-summer decline in flying insect biomass over a period of 27 years regardless of habitat type.

Further research has shown that 40% of insect species are at threat of extinction, with Lepidoptera,

RIGHT: Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui) seen on Marsh Thistle (Cirsium palustre) on grassland used for sheep grazing at Calke.

The Painted Lady is a migrant species which favours thistles and nettles as its larval foodplants in Britain.

Coleoptera and Hymenoptera populations under the most pressure within ecosystems on land. Habitat loss, in particular loss of suitable habitats converted to intensive agricultural use, is the primarily driver of rapid decline in insect numbers globally, including in the UK. Agricultural practices have had the biggest impact on invertebrate numbers with pesticides and chemical fertilisers negatively affecting biodiversity in general. Agricultural and urban environments have seen the highest losses of invertebrate species. A drastic reduction in pesticide usage is recommended to allow for recovery of declining insect populations.

During my time spent at the National Trust’s Calke Abbey estate over the early summer months I photographed a number of small beetles and flies, occasional late instar shield bugs and various lepidoptera species.

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Amongst the most numerous insects were the ladybird species, including the native seven-spot (Coccinella septempunctata) and two-spot (Adalia bipunctata) ladybirds and nonnative harlequin ladybird (Harmonia axyridis).

Climate change may mean that as average temperatures rise new species and pathogens populate areas of Britain where they can become a threat to native, indigenous species, and this has been shown to already have an effect on insect populations.

However Britain lies within a temperature region and is less likely to experience the most severe effects of climate change.

Affected species include specialists which occupy a particular ecological niche and which often rely on specific host plants and habitats, but numbers are also shown to have declined in generalist species which are more able to survive in ordinarily diverse habitats. A few generalist species are benefiting from the loss of specialist

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species, by occupying vacant niches.

resulting

In addition to the effects of climate change, the more pollutant-tolerant species are thriving where specialists have suffered from the effects of agricultural pollution.

Many lepidoptera were late to emerge during this study, possibly due to the poor weather in June interspersed with a few hot, sunny days. Later emergence of the Peacock butterfly (Aglais io), Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui) and Gatekeeper (Pyronia tithonus) was noted, while Meadow Brown butterflies (Maniola jurtina) and the Small Skipper (Thymelicus sylvestris) appeared abundant in the parkland and woodland edge habitats at Calke. Small White butterflies (Pieris rapae) were present on the Calke estate but appeared later and in habitat-specific areas, notably within the walled kitchen gardens and wildflower areas along the edges of grassland habitat.

LEFT: Small Skipper (Thymelicus sylvestris) (Male) seen near to woodland edge habitat at Calke. The small skipper is often hard to distinguish from the Essex Skipper (Thymelicus lineola) although the male small skipper has a thin black line through the centre of its forewing.

ABOVE: Peacock Butterfly larva (Aglais io) on Common Nettle (Urtica dioica) foodplant RIGHT: Peacock Butterfly (Aglais io)

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Aquatic invertebrates including dragonflies (Odonata), mayflies (Ephemeroptera), stoneflies (Plecoptera) and caddisflies (Trichoptera) were all observed at Calke from May-June. These taxa are at most risk from loss of habitat in Britain, as well as pollution to freshwater waterways including agricultural run-off and other pollutants.

The flooded lime pits including Peacock’s Pit and the Engine House Pit within the SSSI, and historic constructed ponds within the parkland including Betty’s Pond, Mere Pond and China House Pond all offer rich and diverse riparian habitats for invertebrates. These are all maintained and monitored by the National Trust and are evidently in good overall conservation condition.

As discussed, the majority of Britain’s resident butterfly species breed in woodland. Most of these species breed in open woodland habitat including clearings with woodland

landscapes where larvae food plants are abundant. Some species are confined to the woodland canopy where they breed on trees and subsist on honeydew in their adult form.

Loss of woodland habitat has an impact on these species which are predominantly confined to such habitats throughout their ranges.

One such species is the Grizzled Skipper (Pyrgus malvae), for which a recent release program was carried out at Calke by the National Trust in conjunction with the Butterfly Conservation charity.

The grizzled skipper has declined by 55% throughout its range, disappearing from Derbyshire in the 1960s. By coppicing and clearing sections of woodland on the estate, and raking over and replanting species-specific food plants combined with the release of a number of adults into the estate, the National Trust hope to encourage the return of the species.

63 LEFT: Five Spot Burnet Moth (Zygaena trifolii)

ABOVE: Gatekeeper (Pyronia tithonus) amongst wildflowers at Calke. Named because it is found in patches of wildlflowers near hedgerows, field edges and gateways.

RIGHT: Meadow Brown (Maniola jurtina) on Marsh Thistle (Cirsium palustre). The meadow brown is abundant at Calke, found in grassland, pasture and in the wildflowers which grow during summer in front of the main house.

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LEFT: Male (L) and female (R) Hoverfly (Syrphus ribesii). Almost identical to the Lesser Banded Hoverfly (Syrphus vitripennis) and distinguished by the female having a yellow hind femur.

ABOVE: Common Red Soldier Beetle (Rhagonycha fulva) on Hogweed. Also known by the English name of Hogweed Bonking Beetle.

ABOVE: Cuckoo Bumblebee (Bombus/Psithyru sp.) collecting pollen from Erysimum ‘Bowle’s Mauve’ in the Calke walled gardens RIGHT: Blue-tailed Damselfly (Ischnura Photographed in Ticknall Limeyards SSSI

elegans)

(Male).

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Tachinid Fly (Pales pavida). Order: Diptera: true flies

Fig. 27 Blue-tailed Damselfly (Ischnura elegans) (Male). Photographed in Ticknall Limeyards SSSI

birds of calke Overall population decline in British birds has been primarily attributed to changes in land usage from seminatural to intensive agricultural use, resulting in loss of habitat including hedgerows, and the use of pesticides.

Ecological research has confirmed the links between agricultural change (in particular pesticide use) and declines in some bird species. Bird species at Calke Abbey noted and photographed for this study consisted primarily of passerine species, corvids, and some larger birds including birds of prey.

Winners on feeders Three finch species have shown no comparable declines in population when studied against other British bird species, namely the Greenfinch (Chloris chloris), Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs) and Goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis). These are relatively abundant at Calke and can also be spotted on the supplementary feeders in the bird hides on the estate. It is suggested that these birds have generally benefited from pheasant feed sites throughout Britain

RIGHT: House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) photographed at the Calke bird hide

which are maintained overwinter, with changes in land use to game shooting as a profitable business for landowners. It is likely that these species benefit from garden supplementary bird feeders such as the ones at Calke and surrounding gardens, with provision of seeds and nuts throughout the year, particularly in the winter months.

Grey squirrels are an ever-present feature at many urban and suburban bird feeding stations in Britain. While photographing birds for this study at the main bird hide at Calke, it was noted that greys would regularly dominate the bird feeding areas.

Bird feeding behaviour appeared to be negatively impacted by the presence of squirrels near to or on the feeders. However, research suggests no evidence is found of grey squirrels having a negative impact on supplementary feeding and assemblage of avian species at feeding stations, which is some consolation for those concerned about the presence of greys at Calke’s bird hides.

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Agricultural impact Seed-eating birds have declined primarily because of intensive herbicide use on farmland and changes in cereal production times, which has catastrophically reduced food supplies for these species.

Population declines in these groups are associated with lower survival rates and reproductive rates.

Losers in the race for agricultural change include bird species associated with farmland and grassland such as the Tree Sparrow (Passer montanus) Reed Bunting (Emberiza schoeniclus) and the Corn Bunting (Miliaria calandra). The grey partridge has declined due to many factors including as a result of increased pesticide usage resulting in decreased chick survival rates.

For reed buntings, the loss of winter food as a result of changes in tillage practices have been directly linked to population decline of the species.

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In the early 19th century, changes occurred within semi-natural habitats including heathland and moorland whereby land was more intensively utilised for agriculture which had a significant effect on British bird populations. Only small numbers of bird species have apparently benefited from changes in agricultural land use and intensification of farming. As Calke utilises some of its parkland for grazing of cattle and sheep, this might raise concerns for the impact it may have on bird species on the estate.

Raptors Most large raptors are opportunistic scavengers rather than the predatory animals many farmers, gamekeepers and landowners appear to suggest.

Predation on live domestic stock is shown to be rare, while scavenging on farm land by raptors is common.

LEFT: Goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis) photographed at the Calke bird hide

ABOVE: Greenfinch (Juvenile) (Chloris chloris). This juvenile was being fed occsasionally by a parent at the main Calke bird hide.

RIGHT: Greenfinch (Chloris chloris). This image shows the clear difference between adult and juvenile greenfinch plumage

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Some studies have shown that raptors and other predators take mainly diseased and older animals, while newer studies show raptors will predate on game birds and depress stock populations where agricultural intensification has removed protection cover for prey animals and where efforts to reduce predation (e.g. penning) have not been undertaken.

Little owls (Athene noctua) are reported to have been regularly annually observed at Calke, often seen sitting on fences within the deer enclosures during the day and at dusk. However, none were observed during the completion of this project.

Buzzards (Buteo buteo) were present on the estate and were noted on two occasions soaring above the deer enclosures and parkland.

Wetland birds Wetland birds observed at Calke for this study include Mute Swan (Cygnus

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olor), Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) and the non-native Mandarin Duck (Aix galericulata).

Pair-bonded mandarin ducks were observed on Mere Pond at Calke in early spring and it is assumed they nested as the female was seen throughout June and July with 6 chicks in tow. A single Goosander (Mergus merganser) was noted early in the year on Mere Pond during this study. It was noted that there is less diversity of wetland species at Calke than may be seen at other locations such as Markeaton Park in Derby and Wollaton Park in Nottingham.

A conservation success can be seen in the case of the mute swan. Several factors were attributed to regional and national declines in mute swan populations, but the single biggest cause of death was shown to be from the use of lead weights amongst anglers. With a change in law banning their use, populations have recovered significantly and continue to increase.

LEFT: Great Tit (Juvenile) (Parus major) photographed at the Calke bird hide

ABOVE: Juvenile (L) and adult (R) Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major) RIGHT: Great Spotted Woodpecker (Juvenile) (Dendrocopos major) photographed at the Calke bird hide while it waited to be fed by a parent. Great Spotted Woodpeckers are omnivorous and diet may include beetle larvae and other invertebrates including ants, flies, beetles and spiders. Other larvae may be eaten where available including Lepidoptera larvae (caterpillars) and they have been known to feed on carrion, suet and scraps from supplementary feeders. It was therefore interesting to see a parent feed a juvenile from the bird feeding stations at Calke.

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Crow (Corvus corone).

Corvids Various game and conservation groups have called for trial culls of corvid species, citing the importance of managing wild populations of game birds and the need to control crow and magpie populations. Some songbird conservationists support the idea of a cull and cite the need to control predation of British songbirds by larger birds including corvids.

However, research by the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) showed no evidence that avian predator population increases are associated with songbird population declines.

22 of the 29 prey species studied showed no statistically significant link between predator numbers and decline of prey species.

The BTO study showed that predator numbers have increased in conjunction with prey species increases, showing a positive association between predator and prey. These results applied in particular to the Magpie (Pica pica), Jay (Garrulus glandarius) and Carrion

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In study tests crows have been seen to have remarkable cognitive skills.

Research has shown that crows evolved a high-capacity working memory, demonstrating the evolution of higher cognitive abilities. Corvids show analogical reasoning, episodiclike memory (contextualised memory), tool use, complex social interactions and evident insight into the mental state of members of the same species. These results surpass most mammals in similar tests and equate to similar primate test results.

Interaction with crows at Calke or elsewhere confirms that these are social birds, preferring to forage in large groups within the parkland and woodland edge habitats. Veteran oak trees and aerial deadwood are favoured as perching and lookout locations by carrions crows and jackdaws, both species fairly abundant on the estate. They engage in constant communication using various calls and chattering sounds while foraging and socialising in large numbers. They are also opportunistic scavengers, as witnessed while at one

LEFT: Carrion Crow (Corvus corone). This individual opportunistically flew off with a discarded cream pot from a visitor’s cream tea.

ABOVE: European Robin (Erithacus rubecula) photographed at the main Calke bird hide RIGHT: Female Chaffinch (Juvenile) (Cyanistes caeruleus). An advanced juvenile plumage showing more colouring and feather development

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mammals of calke Loss of suitable habitat is thought to be responsible for the absence or decline of many mammals in Britain including the county of Derbyshire.

Additionally, predator persecution by landowners and gamekeepers plays a role in declining numbers. Persecution of native mammals, and in particular predatory carnivore species, has continued within most parts of the British Isles, and some species including weasels, foxes, badgers and otters remain a target. Britain no longer has any top predators, unlike most other countries in the world.

auritus) and Barbastelle (Barbastella barbastellus) (rare, from a single recording in 2015). 11 of the 17 species of bat in Britain have been recorded in Derbyshire, many of these recorded at Calke which has bat boxes installed on many of its trees for roosting, nursing and overwintering bats.

Badgers

However, we are fortunate to have many species of mammal in Derbyshire. The Derbyshire Mammal Group have records of species recorded in the county, including native species such as Bank Voles (Myodes glareolus), Brown Hare (Lepus europaeus), Otter (Lutra lutra), Polecat (Mustela putorius), Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes) and the Common Shrew (Sorex araneus). Non-native species recorded include Muntjac (Muntiacus reevesi), American Mink (Neovison vison) and the Grey Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis).

The European Badger (Meles meles) is a carnivorous mammal native to the British Isles. Badgers belong to the mustelid family of mammals who use specialised scent glands to mark their territories and communicate with other animals. They are mostly nocturnal or crepuscular, emerging from their setts where small to large groups co-habit, to forage and socialise with other badgers. They are social animals, forming small to large groups within purpose-built setts which they continuously dig out, extend and keep clean with their large feet and long claws. Badgers dig small latrine holes around setts which are both functional and used to mark territory.

The Derbyshire Bat Group have records of sightings of bats in the county from 1984, and these include Daubenton’s bat (Myotis daubentonii), the Brown Long-eared bat (Plecotus

Although classified as true carnivores, diet usually constitutes insects, earthworms, root tubers, small mammals and can include scavenged scraps or cooked food.

RIGHT: Red Deer (Female) (Cervus elaphus) photographed within the Calke deer park

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A favourite food of the badger is bird eggs, and they are often vilified because of their preference for taking eggs from nests when the opportunity arises.

Derbyshire Wildlife Trust (DWT), Derbyshire Mammal Group and the South Derbyshire Badger Group have existing records of European badger sightings and signs of active setts at Calke going back to 1990 but it may be assumed that badgers have lived on the Calke estate for a significant time previous to regional data collection.

DWT records suggest badgers are or have been active throughout the estate. Records show large, wellused and active setts recorded on woodland edge, pasture, grassland and within the deer park, including descriptions of setts with numerous holes and active spoil mounds and latrines. There are also records of smaller or singular holes, and hairs found as evidence of recent activity in locations close to setts, although DWT’s latest records are dated from 2016.

As any wildlife photographer can attest, photographing nocturnal animals can be difficult. Light levels are low which make achieving a wellexposed image almost impossible.

As the bracken grows very long in summer, the badgers use this as cover while foraging. Badgers make a distinctive snuffling noise as they move about at ground level, and it is possible to watch the bracken move as they forage amongst it. The younger members of the sett seem to

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remain in the tall bracken for hours, looking for insects and worms to eat.

Badgers are a legally protected species in the UK under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992 and prosecutable offences include taking, injury or killing badgers, cruelty, interfering with setts and selling or possession of live badgers. The Department for Food, Environment and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) amended the Act in 2010 to allow provision for licences to kill or take badgers for the purposes of preventing the spread of Bovine Tuberculosis (Mycobacterium bovis) (bTB) in England as part of a strategy to achieve a bTB free status.

The National Trust have placed a ban on badger culling on all of their land, stating that they believe the research available does not support a widespread badger cull to manage bTB outbreaks. Their policy states: “We believe that the disease can be most effectively managed through a range of measures including vaccination, improved on-farm biosecurity, and changes to husbandry methods.”

They have worked in partnership with the DWT’s badger vaccination program in Derbyshire. 486 badgers were vaccinated between 2014-2018 and they state an estimated 80% trapping rate of current known badger populations in vaccination areas, with 92 badgers vaccinated to date in 2019.

Recent announcements confirmed the government’s intention to cull badgers in Derbyshire.

LEFT: European Badger (Meles meles) photographed very early in the morning near to a main sett. The individual was small and assumed to be a juvenile out foraging close to the sett.

ABOVE: Worn badger tracks can be spotted in grassland and woodland areas within the Calke estate RIGHT: European Badger (Meles meles) (Female). This individual was visiting a garden which backs on to the National Trust’s Calke estate. She was clearly enjoying and appreciating some supplementary feeding with kitchen scraps and peanuts which will help to top up her varied diet of earthworms, insects, small mammals, nuts, cereals and windfallen fruits where they can find them. Badgers may occasionally break into and consume wasp and bee nests.

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Rabbits I was surprised to see higher rabbit numbers at Calke during this study than I had noted on previous visits . It may be that numbers have increased.

These are truly wild rabbits, however, and once a human has been seen they will bolt. Their immediate instinct is to briefly observe movement by lifting themselves up onto their large back feet to obtain a clear view of the perceived threat, and then to rapidly find cover amongst bracken and within burrows. I witnessed a rabbit using back leg thumping to alert other rabbits to my presence. As they are not particularly vocal, rabbits use this as a form of communication amongst groups to alert them to perceived dangers.

Although the rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) is a non-native species to the UK, adverse effects to biodiversity are seen to be relatively low.

Conversely, successional grazing of chalk downland and other grassland habitats by rabbits is shown to be beneficial to native insects including butterfly species by controlling the height of grasses and other plants.

Some damage may be caused by rabbits to the grassland and woodland habitats at Calke including damage to saplings and mature trees, and herbivory within the ornamental

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gardens. Predation by red fox (Vulpes vulpes), one of our most successful and adaptable native carnivorous predators, would seem to be a more natural and effective means of rabbit population control on the estate.

Foxes are known to be present in small numbers at Calke, according to anecdotal evidence, although I did not encounter any foxes during my study despite concerted efforts to see and photograph them at early morning.

Rabbits are an important prey animal for predatory mammals and birds.

Research suggests the serious decline in rabbit populations due to the introduction of the myxoma virus and early Myxomatosis outbreak - which caused almost 100% mortality of rabbits – indirectly affected buzzard (Buteo buteo) populations as they predate extensively on the species and rely on rabbits as a regular food source. This is likely to remain the case today; most of Britain’s raptors are known to predate on rabbits and smaller mammals and rely on healthy populations of these species to survive. Calke’s raptor populations are therefore likely to predate on the estate’s abundant rabbit populations as an important food source, including owl species known to be present including Tawny Owl (Strix aluco), Barn Owl (Tyto alba) and nonnative Little Owl (Athene noctua).

LEFT: European Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) sits on hind legs alert to potential dangers

Grey Squirrels The grey squirrel is a non-native species deliberately introduced into Britain in the 19th century. From observations during this study, there appears to be a thriving squirrel population at Calke although exact numbers are unknown.

The grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) is a diurnal mammal which thrives in deciduous woodland habitats such as those found at Calke. Diet includes seeds, fungi, pine cones and flowers, as well as birds’ eggs foraged from nests. Nesting involves building a drey either in a tree fork or tree cavity.

Grey squirrels are a prey species for stoats, foxes and raptors. Pine martens are also known to predate on grey squirrels. An Irish study has shown a strong negative correlation between pine marten and grey squirrel presence at woodland level, and scat samples showed clear evidence of grey squirrel predation by pine martens, suggesting healthy populations of pine martens in mainland Britain may offer a more natural approach to managing populations of greys.

Additionally, red squirrel and pine marten abundance are positively correlated.

Red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) have been replaced by greys in a number of locations in particular in the south of the UK. This negative impact has been exacerbated by the loss of

RIGHT: Grey Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis). A non-native introduced species to Britain, the grey squirrel is well-adapted to thrive in deciduous woodland and parkland habitats.

suitable habitat for reds, primarily the loss of pine forest. Red squirrels perform better in conifer forests with a high concentration of Pine (Pinus spp) while greys have a preference for broadleaf habitats with high availability of Oak (Quercus spp.).

This effect is seen areas throughout Britain where there are pockets of conifer plantations and thriving red squirrel populations such as at the National Trust’s site of Formby in Merseyside. While Calke has scattered individual pine trees there is no significant conifer habitat within the estate.

Greys have an important advantage over reds in that they are shown to be better adapted to deciduous woodland with a suggested higher tolerance for the phytotoxins present in acorns, resulting in an increased overall ability to survive in more prevalent deciduous woodland habitats, including those at Calke. Increasing conifer plantations in Britain is recommended for increasing red squirrel populations.

Grey squirrels are known to predate birds’ nests. Abundance of breeding bird species most sensitive to nest predation may be impacted by the presence of grey squirrels.

However, studies conclude that the damage they may cause to canopy cover or woodland habitats is more detrimental to avian species richness and population size than predation of nests.

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Ancient Deer Park Deer have been present on the Calke estate since at least the 13th century.

As a small clue to the history of deer on the estate there is a preserved 18th century deer shelter within the parkland overlooking the estate’s private chapel, the Church of St. Giles, and the house. There are resident populations of Red Deer (Cervus elaphus) and Fallow Deer (Dama dama) at Calke Abbey, with occasional sightings of Muntjac (Muntiacus reevesi) in the area.

The National Trust appeal to visitors to enjoy the estate’s wildlife as much as its various other attractions. The deer at Calke Park are evidently an attraction for children and nature photographers who come to see the deer in all seasons. Visitors are a vital source of revenue, bringing in funds via entry fees, use of the restaurants, purchases in the gift shop and donations and subscriptions to the National Trust. Funds from the many visitors contribute to conservation projects carried out annually within the estate.

Red deer are considered a native species to the UK, having migrated to Britain from Europe around the last Ice Age approximately 10,000 years ago. Fallow deer are a naturalised non-native species, having been

introduced to the UK in the 11th century. This species was used to stock large estates for hunting and recreation purposes. Fallow deer appear to have much less of an impact on their environment than other deer species in Britain, impacting less on native tree and shrub species.

Their diet is comparable to red deer, consisting of new shoots from trees and shrubs, and grasses.

Deer are ungulate, ruminant herbivores, with a diet consisting of grass, trees and other vegetation.

Deer have a browsing habit which means continuous consumption of available fresh shoots. These are usually browsed from lowgrowing plants (i.e. shrubs, trees and herbaceous plants). Their consumption of low-growing plants has a negative impact on native plant species and has been shown to have a negative impact on passerine bird populations by adversely affecting their nesting opportunities, which it may be assumed equally applies to deer populations resident on the Calke estate.

Reduction in deer numbers is recommended to restore low-growing foliage for nesting bird species in the UK with many suggesting rewilding and reintroduction of top predators to the UK as the most natural approach to population control.

99 LEFT: Red Deer (Cervus elaphus) stag in winter

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LEFT: Fallow Deer (Dama dama). A young male and females in Calke’s enclosed deer park habitat.

ABOVE: A leucistic (white) Fallow Deer (Dama dama) female and her young calf following closely behind

Red Deer (Cervus elaphus) hind (female) in summer with female members of the herd. Females lack the neck ruff which the males develop, and do not grow antlers.

a working estate English Longhorn Cattle have been reared at Calke for at least 150 years.

Sir John Harpur Crewe was known for his appreciation of the breed. Robert Bakewell of Loughborough who was a British agriculturist and the first to implement selective breeding of livestock, bred the Dishley Longhorn by crossing horned heifers with a Westemoreland bull. He bred the Longhorn to be a much larger animal for greater quantities of beef to feed more people during the Industrial Revolution, and it was a popular breed. As a result of his selective breeding, and others following suit, farm animals generally increased in size. Robert Bakewell’s work cross breeding animals for specific characteristics earned some interest from Charles Darwin, and he mentions Bakewell’s work on selective breeding in On the Origin of Species.

The horns were used for buttons, cups and lamps once the animal had been slaughtered. However, in time the breed declined and became rare by the 1960s. In the 1980s the Rare Breeds

RIGHT: Calke Abbey’s Longhorn Cattle can usually be found in one of Calke’s open pasture habitats

Survival Trust brought the breed back from decline. A herd of Longhorns can now be found in Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire as well as at Calke.

The National Trust also have herds of Longhorn at their Shugborough estate in Staffordshire. Calke’s Longhorn cattle are mob-grazed and are moved from field to field over the season to ensure healthy growth and to reduce the impact to grassland.

The Longhorn cow is brindle in colouring and has a characteristic white line along the back and down the tail. Their long horns curve forwards and around the face. Longhorns have a reputation amongst farmers for being extremely docile despite their slightly fearsome, horned appearance.

They are said to make good mothers and have good longevity, whilst being hardy and easy-going animals. My own experience of being with these animals on the Calke estate is one of initial concern, as their horns are indeed extremely long and sharplooking.

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While I moved nearer to them to achieve more detailed photographs for this study, I remained respectful of the distance and their natural instinct to protect their young calves.

Despite their obvious interest in me, they showed no signs of aggression, only inquisitiveness and interest. I have come to appreciate the nature of these animals, who from observation appear to be fairly relaxed in the presence of people and other animals.

Calke has long been associated with the rare Portland sheep breed since it was brought to the estate by Sir Henry Harpur Crewe in 1770. The sheep were utilised to graze the parkland around the house. The breed are happy to graze on the characteristic chalk grassland of Calke which is relatively low in nutrients. There is now a small flock of Portland, and the wider parkland is grazed by other breeds of sheep.

Sheep graze in the parkland which runs alongside the lime tree avenue

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at Calke, and there may occasionally be Longhorn cattle present in this area. The domestic animals appear well used to visitors, and do not seem to mind passing traffic at all. Many visitors find themselves having to stop their car and wait for sheep or cattle to move out of the road with their young, in their own time.

Various studies have been conducted to look at the effects of cattle grazing on their environment. While some results suggest that cattle grazing can reverse a decline in species richness in semi natural grassland habitats, other studies demonstrate a negative impact of cattle grazing on bird species in grassland and wetland habitats. Sheep grazing for conservation benefit on ex-arable chalk grassland is shown to increase species richness, diversity and abundance of plant species. Calke currently uses its rare sheep to graze the SSSI to assist with conservation efforts and prevent succession.

RIGHT: An inquisitive lamb watches from the long grass in the open parkland at Calke Abbey

Domestic sheep sleepily watching on a misty morning at Calke Abbey

house & gardens The National Trust describes Calke Abbey as “the unstately home”, and as an example of the decline of the traditional English country house so reminiscent of a specific era in English history. Calke is a Grade I listed country home shown in its fading glory, with rooms full of historical, dusty, well-used items and artefacts, pallid furniture and carpets, and collections (many unseen) of preserved mammals and insects, fossils, bones, rocks and crystals in countless presentation cases and boxes.

Its gardens became overgrown and garden walls crumbled, the land reverting to its natural state. Unlike most of the National Trust’s portfolio of over 500 properties, which includes many other historic houses and gardens, Calke Abbey was bought in its current state, with much of what remains today in rooms and stables left in situ, preserved yet unchanged.

Calke was originally an established priory and religious community following the rule of St. Augustine,

a North African bishop of the late Roman Empire. The Augustinian priory was founded between 11151120 by the 2nd Earl of Chester, Richard d’Avranches, and was dedicated to St. Giles. Monks resided at the site, which remained a religious community until occupation of the site as a monastery came to an end in 1538. In these last days of English monasticism, Calke appears to have been adapted from working monastery to a manor house and agricultural estate.

In 1622 the Calke estate was bought

by Henry Harpur, using funds from the family settlement upon the death of Sir John Harpur of Swarkestone.

By the 1850s Sir John Harpur Crewe had taken ownership of the estate. He was somewhat of a recluse and was not interested in society and took more interest in wildlife and outdoor activities, including in the breeding of Longhorn Cattle and Portland sheep, which are still bred and kept by the National Trust at Calke to the present day.

110 RIGHT: Interior oak panelled staircase at Calke House

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ABOVE: A window with peeling worn paintwork in the upper part of the house overlooking the extensive parkland below LEFT: An area extending from the original basement kitchens and Butler’s Pantry which was probably used for drying and storing kitchen implements and crockery. Blue paint remains on the crumbling, cracked plaster walls.

Herds of deer shared the estate’s parkland. Partridge and pheasant were kept and shot on the estate, which unfortunately also tallied with the persecution of natural predators on and around the estate. Sir Vauncey Harpur Crewe – 10th Baronet inherited the estate, along with an interest in natural history, in 1886, and later wrote a first volume of the natural history found at Calke. He shot and collected birds and, as many of his predecessors had done, had many of these specimens preserved and encased at Calke, some of which remain the property of the house.

Colvin suggests Sir Vauncey’s collections of birds and lepidoptera was primarily that of a hoarder and hunter rather than as a scientific observer or for classification purposes.

Thousands of preserved specimens were encased and boxed at the Calke house by the time Sir Vauncey died in 1924. The last member of the family to live and die while at Calke was Charles Harpur Crewe (was Charles Jenney) who developed a similar temperament to his ancestors and

RIGHT: A small section of the preserved animal collections which remain on display at Calke Abbey

became reclusive within the estate, preferring the company of tenants to the gentry of his day. He died in 1981 while setting mole traps on the estate.

In 1985 ownership of the Calke estate was finally transferred to the National Trust by Henry Harpur Crewe - who had inherited from Charles - after lengthy negotiations between the government of the time over taxes owed and various public bodies and charities aiming to preserve the Calke estate.

In over a hundred years much of the layout of furniture and ornaments, and cases full of preserved animals, have remained unmoved as they were left by the previous occupants and can still be seen today during a daily tour of the house. Calke has survived with much of its historical artefacts intact, supported by original deeds and other documentation pointing to those who lived and worked on the estate from the 12th century to the 20th century.

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A bedroom at Calke Abbey remains littered with preserved animal heads, antlers, shell collections and discarded toys, left as it had been when the house was sold to the National Trust

Calke Gardens The Calke estate originally had a formal garden laid out to the south of the house, with a parterre inside a walled area and fountain with red and white gravels. This garden was cleared in the 1770s to make way for the new walled gardens which still stand today. The new gardens incorporated a flower garden, physic garden (medicinal plants) and kitchen garden, which included the large Orangery with its glass dome, all of which were in a dilapidated state by the 1980s and which have seen minor renovations carried out by the National Trust since their purchase of the estate.

The gardens are currently maintained by three employed gardeners and an army of volunteers who regularly help to dig over, prune, mulch, harvest, water, plan and replant the gardens every year. Calke’s physic garden is

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dug over and prepared in late winter/ early spring, where robins can be spotted keeping a watchful eye over patches of recently dug over bare ground for worms and other insects.

As the year progresses, crops are planted, tended to and harvested, and some of these can be purchased by visitors, the proceeds of which help to maintain Calke’s gardens and house.

The walled kitchen gardens are filled with grassland and patches of wildflowers, many of which are sown into prepared beds to provide a riot of colour for the summer.

These offer invertebrates a source of food, encouraging them further in to pollinate the many fruit trees within the orchard, and the crops growing in the physic garden. The addition of bee hives at the back of the orchard assists in pollination of the fruit and vegetable crops. The gardens are open to the public as part of the entrance fee for Calke.

LEFT: Within Calke’s walled flower gardens, constructed in the 1770s, there are carefully planned and planted herbaceous borders such as the example photographed which are designed to look naturalistic and slightly wild. Planted in amongst the beds are varieties of shrub and climbing rose, peonies, erysimum, hardy geraniums, hemerocalis, alliums, buddleia and many of other suitable herbaceous garden plants chosen with colour, form and scent in mind.

ABOVE: The Gardener’s Bothy, containing many of the original gardening implements and equipment used when it was a fully working kitchen garden.

RIGHT: Calke’s walled gardens include the Gardener’s Bothy, which appears to be an old shed but which contains many gardening treasures from the past. Blue paint is peeling off the walls, and there are tools still hanging on walls, a grandfather clock, and a towering set of drawers designed for organising and storing seeds from one growing season to the next.

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Calke House as seen from the main entrance. The central section was remodelled and extended with the intentions of adding curving staircases similar those seen at Kedleston Hall in Derbyshire. The stairs that were installed were made of iron and simple in design, and it is estimated they were removed some time after 1886.

acknowledgements Thank you to the National Trust Calke Abbey for allowing me access to the estate, and to Bill Cove for answering many questions. Thanks to Alison Thornhill for assisting me with invertebrate identifications and locations, and to the enthusiastic rangers at Calke for the informative walks and information so kindly provided to help me photograph wildlife on the estate. Thank you to local photographer Jason Ogbourne for teaching me a few tricks when photographing insects, and thanks to all the bird photographers I’ve met on my walks who have offered helpful suggestions.

Thank you to the diligent and supportive staff who teach the Masters in Biological Photography and Imaging at the University of Nottingham, David McMahon, Tom Hartman and Steve Galloway, who have opened up new worlds for me and empowered my love for imaging and natural history.

Acknowledgements also go to my supportive family and friends, and in particular my mum and Adam, who have offered advice and encouragement throughout this project. Thanks for all the photography walks with me and for the ones to come.

124 RIGHT: Calke Abbey’s parkland at dusk

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