Military orchid  (Orchis militaris)

Climatic factors such as cold weather are likely to affect this warmth-loving species (2), which is on the very edge of its range in Britain (3). Over-shading due to a decrease in traditional woodland management is also likely to have contributed to the decline of this species (2). Trampling of seedlings is a risk (2), and as with all orchids, collecting has taken its toll.

The site near Marlow, Buckinghamshire is wardened, and the plants are protected from trampling by fencing. Habitat management at the site includes tree thinning and grazing by sheep to create suitable conditions for the orchid. Pollination is carried out by wardens to maximise the chance that seed will be set (3). At the site in Suffolk, the plants are also well protected (2). The military orchid is fully protected under Schedule 8 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, so it is illegal to uproot, cut, sell or destroy this species.