Hylands - Notable Species
Northamptonshire. Further research found that although the moth was present in many trees
(particularly hybrid black poplars, Populus x canadensis var. serotina) it was also not present in
many trees that were showing high levels of die-back. The moth larva when found in healthy trees
seemed to have little deleterious effect, but when found in unhealthy or stressed trees, could contribute
to their demise. Although not rare, the moth is still accorded nationally notable status.
Vespa crabro Linnaeus Hymenoptera: Vespidae
The hornet is another species that is not uncommon nationally, but is notable at Hylands because it
has been almost abundant in recent years. 1 have found very few nests, but those that 1 have found
have been in hollow trees, under a large log (nest at ground level) and once in the roof space of a
building. The queens were often found within the stable-block at Hylands, presumably looking for
hibernation sites. The workers, males and the occasional queen, arc attracted by Ivy blossom in the
autumn and can be seen hunting oilier insects, notably hoverflies.
Testacella scutulum Sowerby Mollusca : Testacellidae
This shelled slug and its close relative Testacella haliotidea Draparnaud, have both been recorded
from flower beds in the formal gardens area. Despite being two apparently distinctive species,
there is a possibility that they are one and the same, which should have the specific name haliotidea.
Both species I dug-up from richly organic soil in the formal gardens, one of which I found appeared
to be sucking an earthworm dry (both predate earthworms). The formal gardens would appear to be
classic habitat for these invertebrates. Many 19th century records were from the kitchen gardens of
country houses. There is a possibility that both species were introduced from the Mediterranean.
Although very distinctive, with their tiny shells, neither species are often recorded and both are
extremely rare in Essex.
Muscardinus avellanarius (Linnaeus) Rodentia : Gliridae
For me the discovery of the dormouse at Hylands was second only to the discovery of Callicera
spinolae. This attractive and much-loved resident of Britain's ancient countryside is thought to be
a scarce and declining species. Its decline is thought to be through the loss and lack of management
of its traditional habitat - ancient woodland. In Britain it now has a very southern distribution and
Suffolk is about as far north as it gets. The species is, however, elusive and the Essex and Suffolk
Dormouse project - through its nest-box scheme - is gaining more and more records of its present
whereabouts and preferred habitat, which obviously includes mature scrub and overgrown
hedgerows. It is thought that regular roadside hedge-flailing may not help this species because it
prevents berries and fruits forming.
Because of the quality, diversity and extent of potential habitat at Hylands, I suspect a strong
population of this animal is probably present. In the late suimner of 2002, 26 nest-boxes were
placed in the park and on later inspection two were found to be occupied with dormouse nests. The
nests were of loosely woven grass with some dry leaves incorporated. A probable third nest was
also discovered in the Lower Belt area.
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Essex Parks: Section 2 - Hylands Park