5 people with hi vis vests standing around a 'dead hedge' placing sticks and logs in between posts to create a snake of brash. One person's back is visible and you can read the words 'Friends of Gipton Woods'.

April 2026 dead hedge creation

On Saturday 4th April, a merry band of volunteers shook off the Easter chocolates and embraced the season by continuing our long‑term project to create a ‘dead hedge’ along the Copgrove Road boundary of the wood. This is beginning to provide a natural way to deter motor vehicles from entering the site, and we think it’s looking rather elegant as it snakes its way amongst the trees.

Not so dead?

Despite the name, a dead hedge is full of life. By stacking branches close together, you can create a wonderful habitat for insects and birds. The dense structure provides a safe place for birds to forage or nest, away from the beaks and claws of predators.

If you feel inspired to create your own dead hedge, you can find more information about the wildlife benefits and a step‑by‑step guide on the RSPB website.

Join a monthly Volunteer Action Morning to be part of the team!

We’ll be continuing this project through the next year, so check the events page to find the next dead hedge creation session.

Similar Posts

  • Gipton Wood 2050 headline results

    Thank you to everyone who completed our consultation survey and provided feedback on proposals for Gipton Wood. We’re thrilled that 92% of respondents supported all or most of the proposals. We’re now working through the feedback to look at where we can improve the proposals, or where we may need to change or adjust them….

  • Fungi Foray

    Over 30 people gathered in Gipton Wood on a very wet Sunday afternoon (19th October 2025) for the annual FOGW Fungi Foray.   Wildlife expert Steve Joul led the group, sharing his extensive knowledge not only of the fungi but of other aspects of wildlife in the wood.  Very quickly our eyes to adjust to spotting…

  • Winter wreath workshop

    Our winter wreath workshop on 6 December 2025, as part of our Rhythms of Nature series, was a great success! Using foraged foliage from Gipton Wood, families made some beautiful wreaths to hang from their doors, while enjoying seasonal refreshments including winter spiced hot chocolate, festive music and a campfire to keep us warm and…

  • Dead-hedging 6 October 2025

    On 6, October despite the yellow warnings of wind, a group of volunteers together with council ranger Louise met to continue the work of establishing a dead hedge along the Copgrove Road edge of the Wood.  The hedge consists of stakes driven into the ground about 2 metres apart in a one metre wide double…

  • Leaping into Spring

    We Leapt into Spring on 7 March at our Rhythm of Nature community event! The sun was shining and there were exciting signs of spring all around the wood to notice and explore. We created woodland crafts using a range of woodworking tools and then decorating with wools and pens. The tap tap tapping of the…

  • SEPTEMBER FUN

    On Saturday 6th September, the Friends of Gipton Wood hosted a community event with a lively Forest School and a bring and share stall with produce from our gardens and kitchens. Over 60 local residents came and enjoyed the day. The Forest School, led by Dora, Laura and Christine explored the themes of Fire, Water…