Let me introduce you to Hintlesham Wood’s secret weapon Propolydesmus testaceus. This special millipede is one of the variety of wildlife found in the wood which is threatened by National Grid’s planned Bramford to Twinstead power connection in Suffolk.
One of the route options slices a new transmission line through the wood – if it came to pass it would result in the destruction of parts of one of Suffolk’s largest ancient woodland. And to be classed as ancient (if you are a wood) you will have been covered by trees since at least 1600 AD.
Now Propolydemus testaceus may be able to turn toxic and ward off unwanted attention by secreting cyanide-containing repellents – but that isn’t going to save it’s woodland home where it lives amongst the leaf litter and amongst rotting wood.
Propolydesmus testaceus - I'm small, I bite, I won't give up the fight! Photo - P Richards
Mark Nowers, RSPB Warden said: “The pylons would destroy part of the woods, split the remainder into separate parts and form a barrier to movement for plants and animals.
“These woods support a huge array of wildlife, from the fantastic millipede species, flora and fauna and important bird populations. They are also home to green hellebore, herb-paris and wild service trees, plants that are rarely found outside of ancient woodlands.”
“We know these woods are incredibly special, and we simply cannot re-create their splendour elsewhere. Species like Propolydesmus testaceus are a vital part of the ecosystem of this ancient woodland, but they are vulnerable to disturbance. If this proposal goes ahead, it will have an enormous impact on their future.”
Mark Nowers will be holding a walk on 5 May for members of the public who would like to learn more about the amazing Propolydesmus testaceus and the other species under threat in the woods.
For more information or to attend the walk on 5 May, please get in touch with Mark on 07850 772517
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