SHEEP PATHSO

The variability of some chalk pastures above the Pewsey Vale in Wiltshire was studied by recording point-quadrats two inches apart on strips across sheep paths; the results are shown diagrammatically. There were usually lines of tall grasses at the edges of the paths, with belts of shorter grass, richer in forbs, between the paths. Some species of grasses and forbs were most common on or near the paths; others were more common in the short turf. The theoretical and practical implications of this variability are briefly discussed.