Vitsippeskogen, Naturreservat

The Vitsippeskogen nature reserve is one of the few forest areas close to urban areas in Jonstorp. Locally the forest is called Vitsippeskogen. The area has high natural values and is used extensively by preschools and local residents.

The forest

The forest is a swamp forest with lots of alder and birch. There are plenty of mosses and climbing plants such as ivy and honeysuckle on the trunks. In the moist soil, wetland plants such as beach lily, sword lily, manna grass, brook veronica, meadow grass and hop flowers thrive. While in the drier parts you can see cranesbill, lily of the valley, pale balsam and squirrelberry.

Wildlife

In Vitsippeskogen there is plenty of dead wood, especially lying, after previous storms. This provides good habitats for wood-boring beetles. The area is home to some unusual species of half-crackers. The larvae live for several years in decaying wood, while the adult beetle lives for only a few weeks. If you are lucky, you may see a black half-cracker with beautifully serrated antennae around midsummer. Dead wood teeming with food in turn attracts birds. Many small birds thrive in the dense mixed deciduous forest. Examples of species include green warblers, whitethroats, blackcaps and redstarts.

Outdoor life

With its location close to urban areas, the reserve is of great importance for recreation and outdoor life. Vitsippeskogen is located in the western part of Jonstorp. It is often used by schools and preschools and there is an outdoor classroom in the north-eastern part of the reserve. Several paths take you through the forest. There is a parking lot adjacent to the reserve and the nearest bus stop is Jonstorp Jonstorpsskolan 100 meters east. Remember to take your rubbish home.