An appreciation of the natural processes of woodlands is essential for the development of a rationale and practices for woodland nature conservation and management. In this book, Dr. Peterken describes how woodlands grow, die, and regenerate in the absence of human influence, and the structures and range of habitats found in natural woods. He describes examples of virgin and old-growth forests in Europe and North America, and outlines the dynamics and structure of natural temperate woodlands. This knowledge is then applied to nature conservation issues in British woods and forests, particularly the maintenance of "untouched" reserves, the management of native broadleaved woods, and the design of coniferous plantations. Natural Woodlands is a fascinating account of woodland natural history for all those concerned with the management and ecology of natural or commercial woodlands.