Make the wood as large as possible. The general rule, that biodiversity increases with area, is particularly important in woodland. A roughly circular shape is thought to be best.
Think about how you can increase ‘edge’ habitat. This is preferred by many species of birds and butterflies. You could create a small glade, a path or perhaps a sinuous boundary.
Create a multi-layered wood with a full range of habitats and species.
Intervention may be necessary whilst the young trees establish to reduce competition from surrounding vegetation and restrict browsing by deer, rabbits or hares.
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