Brodoclea Woodland Farm

Location results

Our Brodoclea Woodland Farm covers 174ha and is home to our woolly pigs, our ecological restoration engineers. Brodoclea is a rich tapestry weaving together the heritage of those who have farmed the land for centuries and the needs of the wildlife that calls this hillside its home.

134

plant species recorded, plus 31 breeding bird species, 10 butterfly and 6 mammal species

15000sqm

mature woodland under sensitive management

14995sqm

wildflower meadow and wetland enhancements

Location overview

Woodland Creation

Tree planting on Brodoclea has been taking place over several years. The site boasts areas of mature woodland, creating a diverse reforested landscape with trees at every stage of life. We will continue to plant a mixture of trees using a range of tree species, extending existing woodland habitat networks to help nature thrive.

Agroforestry

At Brodoclea Woodland Farm we manage the Woolly Pig Company, a small scale organic farming enterprise, the farming activities enhance the woodland rather than the other way round. Our woodland and farm activities are entirely integrated. Brodoclea is home to our woolly pigs. To support our ongoing work at Brodoclea, we retail 60-80 pigs a year which are then sold directly to customers through our online shop The Woolly Pig Company.

Nature Restoration

At Brodoclea Woodland Farm, a diverse range of wildlife thrives, including brown hares, glue-stick fungus, and seven species of butterflies, with more yet to be discovered. Our commitment to holistic land management is evident in our careful documentation of the wildlife. With over 40 bird species, including those of high conservation importance, and more than 30 breeding species, Brodoclea is a haven for avian life. The gorges and wetlands within the young woodland compartments are rich in wildflowers, adding to the vibrant ecosystem of the farm.

Our vision

Our holistic land management ethos means that we work in sympathy with nature. We will continue to keep the woodland productive using regenerative agroforestry methods to secure the long-term financial security of the woodland. We are planting a mixture of trees using a range of tree species, extending existing woodland habitat networks and helping nature thrive.
We will sensitively manage the mosaic of young and mature woodland, wetlands and grasslands for birds so that Brodoclea Woodland Farm becomes a hotspot for birdlife in North Ayrshire
Our team of experts continue to carry out regular wildlife surveys to inform our planning, ensuring the landscape is vibrant and jam-packed with life.

Make an impact

Creating a home for birdlife of high conservation concern

Brodoclea Woodland Farm is a sanctuary for a diverse range of bird species, including those of high conservation importance like Whinchat, Lesser Redpoll, and Wood Warbler. We discovered Dipper nesting in one of our streams, while Sedge Warblers were sighted in other areas. Buzzards, Kestrels, and even Ospreys have been observed flying over the site. Our team of experts consistently monitors the bird population and enjoy seeing the results of our ongoing nature restoration work.

Creating a vibrant ecosystem with wildflowers for butterflies and pollinators

At Brodoclea Woodland Farm, you'll find a stunning variety of wildflowers, particularly in the gorges and wetlands spread throughout the young woodland areas. Among the many species are Marsh Ragwort, Marsh Woundwort, Ragged Robin, Flag Iris, and Slender Tufted-Sedge. Additionally, you'll spot Wild Angelica, Meadowsweet, and Devil's-Bit Scabious. These beautiful wildflowers attract a diverse range of butterflies and pollinators, adding to the farm's natural beauty.

Farm Woodland Young People’s Award

Brodoclea Site Assistant David Carruth won the Young People’s Award for Farm Woodland at Scotland’s Finest Woods Awards 2023 for his efforts in showing innovation in developing farm woodlands. David was celebrated for his exemplary use of both woodland and agricultural practice at Brodoclea, proved to benefit the farming operation while showcasing high quality woodland management, with all woodland activities taking place on the site being entirely integrated and supported by farming activity.

Connecting nature and the community

Engaging with local community groups and bringing people back onto the hillside is important to us. The woodland is open to everyone and walking routes through the site can be accessed from the community access gate.

Helping nature thrive

Brodoclea Woodland Farm spans 174 ha of woodland of all ages, boasting 33,000 trees planted and over 15,000 sqm of wildflower-rich wetland and meadow enhancement. A diverse mix of 15,000 sqm of mature woodland are under being sensitively managed by our team. Over 40 bird species have been recorded, including species of high conservation concern. Through our nature restoration work we are actively creating a sanctuary for a rich variety of wildlife. Our agroforestry enterprise integrates trees, crops and animals to create exceptionally productive and resilient ecosystems.

Make an impact

More Locations

Our team are committed to helping nature to thrive across our twelve unique UK sites. Working at a landscape scale, we're creating new forests, restoring peatlands, creating wildflower meadows, wetlands, and heathland. Through a blend of environmental science and practical knowledge, we establish native woodlands and exceptional habitats teaming with wildlife. Explore our sites and discover the projects.