Zebon Copse

Zebon Copse is situated within the Zebon housing estate adjacent to the Basingstoke Canal and comprises of 20 acres of broad-leaved, mixed-deciduous woodland containing, in the central north-western part of the site, The Peatmoor, which is a substantial seasonally wet heath glade. There is also a smaller damp glade within the eastern leg of the site known as The Grove.

The Copse supports a variety of fauna and flora, including 38 ancient indicator plant species, suggesting that there has probably been woodland in this location since at least the 16th century. The Southern leg of the Copse & small pockets of woodland within the site are undoubtedly ancient, being associated with the bank & boundary systems found throughout the wider wood. Bluebells, Wood Anemones and Moschatel can be found within the Copse, and 170 fungi species have been recorded to date.

The Copse can be accessed by a number of surfaced paths, which also link to the Basingstoke Canal towpath and raised boardwalks provide easy access to the wet woodland areas.

There are no visitor facilities within the Copse, although parking provision is available at the Velmead Community Centre. Grid ref SU 800 518.

Friends of Zebon Copse was created to help protect and manage the nature reserve, and provide information for anyone who has an interest in this ecologically valuable little habitat and the wealth of wildlife to be found within it. The group is informal and receives updates via email regarding current management to benefit visitors and the array of species which exploit the reserve, as well as work party schedules and visitor events.

‘Friends’ may also choose to help to manage the reserve by picking up litter or helping on one of the volunteer work parties. Others simply keep an eye on the reserve and report any abuses such as fly tipping, or record any wildlife they might find. To join, or find out more, please contact the site rangers

Volunteer Work Parties

Zebon Copse is fortunate in having a committed group of volunteers who meet every other month to carry out tasks to benefit the reserve and visiting members of the public. Tasks vary from path resurfacing to scrub clearance, ensuring that the mire habitat is not lost to the woodland. Without the dedication of the volunteers much of this work could not be achieved.

The work parties are always light-hearted and fun and provide a great way to meet other volunteers and get fit at the same time. Dates alternate between Sundays and Wednesdays every other month and everyone is welcome.

Please be advised that under 16 year olds need to be accompanied by an adult. We meet along the tarmac path that runs from Sylvester Way to Londlandes at 10am. All tools and refreshments are provided but you are advised to bring gardening gloves and sensible footwear.

See main Zebon Copse notice-board for details of upcoming workparties and events, or alternatively contact the rangers directly.