[1] Although hazels are more commonly understory trees in less extreme climates, they dominate this woodland due to their hardiness against wet and windy conditions, as well as their tolerance to thin, rocky soil.

[3] Bryophytes live on trees in a non-harmful way, and examples from this reserve include Plagiochila bifaria,[4] Neckera pumila,[5] and Drepanolejeunea hamatifolia.

[9][10] In some of the damper, marshland areas of the woods, butterflies are plentiful and species such as common blue, marsh fritillary, and small heath are present.

It has seen little human activity through the years, although around 20 ruined structures have been found around the reserve along with historic farming areas, now completely overgrown with trees.

There is also later activity evidenced by some small mines and quarries as well as several planted beech trees for the amenity of the Breadalbane Estate.