Shocott Spring is 52 hectares of community woodland, planted between 2005 and 2011 between Shortstown and Cotton End, forming part of the Forest of Marston Vale.
Over 90,000 trees and shrubs have been planted, many of these by local people. Main species include Oak, Ash, Birch and Hazel. The site was also sown with a native grass and wildflower mix, producing a show of colour through the summer, and a rich source of pollen and nectar for insects such as Marbled White and Skipper butterflies.
The site is accessible to pedestrians, cyclists and mobility vehicle users at all times, with over 3km of surfaced routes, and a network of mown grass trails and recreation areas. Access from both villages is along the pavement beside the A600, and via a public footpath from the centre of Cotton End.
Shocott Spring’s new habitats provide a diverse environment in which wildlife is already thriving. Resident Skylark, Great Tit, Goldfinch and other smaller birds take advantage of the abundance of insects and fruits; whilst Kestrel and Barn Owls can often be seen hunting for small mammals such as Field Voles, which live in abundance within the rough grassland, which they share with Brown hare, and the occasional foraging Badger.
The Cache
This is the largset cache to be found on this trail. A litreish cliplock box. It contains the usual tat and 20p for FTF.