POST TEN

At this point and also further along the cycle path, oak trees overhang the path.  Our most celebrated native tree, the oak supports an enormous array of wildlife, from tiny insects that live in the bark and the leaf litter that forms beneath the tree, to birds that nest in its canopy, and squirrels and badgers that come to feast on its acorns.

As you continue along the footpath beside the cycle track look out for brambles and the pale pink flowers of the dog rose, which give way to bright red rosehips in the autumn – more food for wildlife.  Watch out though for the fierce prickles on both these plants! Other plants to be seen along this stretch include Creeping buttercup, Hogweed, and Wood avens.  Near the bottom of the hill, where the path meets the Caldy brook again, some of the biggest Crack Willow trees in the park can be seen growing in the woods beside the path.

Where the paths join is marker post 11.  Turn left here to return to the car park, where the trail started.