Coille Dhubh
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Condition (NatureScot)
| Unit | Feature | Condition | Area (ha) | Assessed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F1 | Upland oak woodland | Unfavourable Declining | — | 2017-02-02 |
Geology & landscape
Rock Type: Gneiss
Description
COILLE DHUBH Coille Dhubh lies 4 km. south of Gairloch and is one of the best examples of an oakwood on acidic soils in Wester Ross. The woodland, especially on the lower lying parts, consists mostly of oak trees Quercus spp., but a range of other tree species occur, including birch Betula spp., rowan, holly, aspen and willow Salix spp.. Numerous small streams and flushes cross the site. The ground layer is dominated by grasses and mosses, with ferns widespread and abundant. Parts of the site, in particular the northern and western sections, are underlain by Lewisian gneiss rocks, which create more fertile soils. The diversity of plants is greater in these parts of the site. Areas of heath occur on wetter and more exposed parts of the site.