Let's explore a temperate rainforest

A walk through of my trip to one of Britain's last temperate rainforests

This past week I finally managed to visit one of the few last remaining temperate rainforests we have here in the South West and oh boy was it worth the trip! So, today I thought I would give you a photo walk through of my trip and the magical world of Black-a-tor Copse!

Quick note: All my photos were taken from the path leading around the forest- even the close-ups!

Wait a temperate rainforest?

Yes, the UK is actually home to temperate rainforests (sometimes called Atlantic woodlands) these areas have high rainfall and humidity coupled with a low annual variation in temperature. They form habitats of ancient oak, birch, ash, pine and hazel made more diverse with open glades, boulders, crags, ravines and river gorges. Globally they form part of the coastal temperate rainforest biome- a globally rare and threatened habitat.

Black-a-tor Copse

The rainforest I visited is called Black-a-tor Copse and is within Dartmoor National Park close to the Meldon Reservoir. It was a comfortable (if slightly damp) hour long walk to the forest following the reservoir and then the river upstream. There was then a trail that ran along the side of the forest allowing for stunning views and insight, without disturbing the delicate eco-system.

Visiting a temperate rainforest:

As there is only a few locations across the UK it is vital that temperate rainforest habits are protected and that we acknowledge and respect the environment when we visit. With this in mind here are some top tips for visiting temperate rainforests:

• Always stick to the path, even for selfies! There are plenty of lovely views to photograph from the dedicated paths that don’t require anyone to go rogue.

• Photos only! It is important that the lichens and fungi in these forests are not removed or disturbed- you don’t need to take a piece home just take a photo!

• Watch out for moss! The mossy rocks you can see in Black-a-tor Copse are in themselves mini habitats and eco-systems so it’s important not to stand or sit on them- even if they do look comfy.