Database

Preserve trees and shrubs along stone walls

Habitat	Function	Type of work
Open landscape	Living environment, Landscape, Cultural	Stone wall maintenance and restoration

In order to maintain biodiversity and ensure ecological connectivity in grasslands, structural elements of habitats (e.g. old trees, old trees, old growth trees, dead trees and snags, flatwood, hardwood, hollow trees, scorch marks, shrub species and species of rare trees, structures and other heritage features) are maintained, taking into account their potential impact on grassland health, ecosystem condition and human safety.

Description of the action

Preserve trees and shrubs growing near stone walls. It is advisable to leave trees and shrubs every 5 meters in pairs. Ensure that the southern side of the stone wall has sunlit areas to support habitats for heat-loving species.

Why?

Old stone walls serve as corridors in agricultural landscapes, providing habitats and growing conditions for many species. When mosses start growing between stones, they create a shallow and nutrient-poor substrate that can support flowers. The south-facing sides of stone walls provide warm and sunny spots for heat-loving insects and reptiles. Cavities offer habitats for reptiles and amphibians.