FERNE Animal Sanctuary is celebrating a donation of 250 native trees, valued at £2000, and is inviting the community to support the planting this weekend.

The donation to Ferne Animal Sanctuary from Trees for Good Causes, a community interest company (CIC) offering tree-planting schemes to support local charities, comprises a diverse mix of native broadleaf species of trees that have been grown and seasoned for three years in the neighbouring county of Devon.

This contribution aims to enhance Ferne Animal Sanctuary's landscape, providing natural habitats for its diverse range of animal residents, while promoting rich biodiversity to support wildlife species within the Blackdown Hills located in a Natural Landscapes area.

Kevan Hodges, chief executive officer at Ferne Animal Sanctuary, said: "We are incredibly grateful to Trees for Good Causes for this generous donation.

“These trees will not only provide essential shelter and forage for our animals but also contribute to the broader goal of enhancing biodiversity within our sanctuary.”

The trees donated include a mix of Oak, Holly, Bird Cherry, Hawthorn, Beech, Blackthorn, Alder, Rowan, Hazel, and Guelder Rose, which will mature in the next 10 years.

They have been specifically chosen due to their ability to thrive in local conditions, ensuring their successful integration into the landscape at Ferne Animal Sanctuary.

Trees for Good Causes will plant the trees as part of its open tree planting day initiative taking place at Ferne Animal Sanctuary on Sunday, March 24.

All members of the community are welcome on the day to join together in planting the trees, although supporters are encouraged to bring their own spades.

Joanna Benbow, director and co-founder at Trees for Good Causes, said: "We are thrilled to collaborate with Ferne Animal Sanctuary for our upcoming open tree planting day. We are excited to be involved in this project as part of our ongoing mission to nurture and preserve local environments.

“Together with local communities, we will plant trees to create necessary shelter for animals cared for at the sanctuary and would like to thank everyone involved in supporting our joined-up efforts.”

Unlike conventional farming practices that prioritise open grasslands, Ferne Animal Sanctuary aims to provide a landscape reminiscent of the New Forest or the moors of Devon.

By introducing local trees and shrubs, Ferne seeks to offer its animal residents the opportunities to exhibit natural behaviours, including foraging and seeking shelter.

Ferne Animal Sanctuary has identified three fields on the western fringe of its land for tree planting.

These areas are vulnerable to prevailing Southwest winds and will benefit from the shelter and windbreak the trees will provide upon reaching maturity.

Ferne Animal Sanctuary is a non-government-funded charity that has provided refuge and rehabilitation to its animals for more than 80 years.