Fraxinus excelsior damaged by deer C017 / 7017
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Fraxinus excelsior damaged by deer C017 / 7017
A young ash tree, Fraxinus exclesior, photographed in 2013 on the Morvern peninsula, Western Scotland. The original sapling was planted inside a tubular tree guard in 2006. The tree guard ( greenish hue) is made of plastic and perforated (to left ), so that as the girth of the tree expands over time, the guard splits open. The top of the guard is about 1.2m above ground level. Western Scotland has a large population of wild red deer ( Cervus elaphus ), which are a threat to newly planted trees due to their grazing of young shoots. The picture illustrates the result of continuous damage caused by deer over a period of seven years. Each season, new shoots that emerge from the top of the guard have been eaten by deer.The tree has made only small amount of growth above the top of the guard, and has little prospect of establishing itself as a full-grown specimen
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9339821
© DR JEREMY BURGESS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Deer Forestry Fraxinus Excelsior Red Deer Scotland Ash Tree Cervus Elephas Tree Planting
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the unfortunate fate of a young ash tree, Fraxinus excelsior, on the Morvern peninsula in Western Scotland. Planted inside a tubular tree guard back in 2006, this sapling was meant to flourish and contribute to the natural beauty of its surroundings. However, nature had different plans. The greenish-hued plastic tree guard was designed with small perforations that allowed for growth as the tree expanded over time. Standing at approximately 1.2 meters above ground level, it seemed like a protective shield against any potential threats. Little did anyone know that wild red deer (Cervus elaphus) posed a significant danger to these newly planted trees. Over seven years, this picture tells the story of continuous damage caused by hungry deer feasting on fresh shoots emerging from the top of the guard each season. The result is disheartening - minimal growth above the top of the guard and little hope for this ash tree to establish itself as a majestic specimen. In forestry management terms, this image serves as a reminder of how wildlife interactions can impact delicate ecosystems and hinder reforestation efforts. It highlights both the resilience of nature's creatures and their ability to disrupt human interventions aimed at nurturing new life. Photographed by Dr Jeremy Burgess in 2013 for Science Photo Library, this poignant image showcases not only an individual case but also sheds light on broader challenges faced by conservationists working tirelessly to protect our natural heritage from such encounters between animals and vulnerable plant species like Fraxinus excelsior.
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