Selborne (National Trust): Landscape, Wildlife and Gilbert White

Leader: Andy Swan (HNHS Member)
Standing near the edge of Selborne Churchyard, Andy explained to 11 members the geology of the area which includes Middle Chalk, Lower Chalk, Upper Greensand and Lower Greensand.  All these have given rise to specific types of flora and fauna.
When Gilbert White wrote “The Natural History of Selborne” the village was an isolated place.  He had only limited ability to travel but corresponded with fellow naturalists.  His interest in wildlife, particularly the behaviour of birds, and the arrival and departures of some species contributed towards knowledge of migration. He is considered the first writer on ecology.
During the walk along the valley of the Oakhanger Stream seen were: Marsh Tit, Red Admiral, Orange Tip, Beautiful Demoiselle, Green Dock Beetle, Blue-tailed Damselflies and Heath Woodruff.
At the end of the morning respects were made in the Churchyard at the grave of Gilbert White with its very simple headstone.