The Burnt-tip Orchid (Neotina ursulata) is one of the rarities found at Knocking Hoe nature reserve where the north Chilterns descends into Bedfordshire. It is a species made rare by the severe decline of its habitat- grazed grassland on chalk and limestone. The slopes of Knocking Hoe are a haven for numerous common and uncommon wildflowers of calcareous ground.

 There seems to be a certain amount of variation from plant to plant even in close proximity. For example the one pictured in the top photograph has a tall poker-like inflorescence and a distinct two tone colouration. The second is lower growing with a more bulbous flowerhead pure white with the strongly contrasting burnt tip.

 These were outliers of the main cluster which I regret to say was not photogenic. This area has been cordoned off with posts and chicken wire and the position of each specimen marked with a bright red flag on a stick. From the spectators point of view the sense of the Burnt-tip Orchid in its landscape is lost. 

 There is a difficult balance to be struck with nature conservation. Areas have to be managed with both protection and open access in mind. I think the balance has perhaps swung towards over caution in this case? Nature reserves are administered and maintained by very dedicated people -generally on a voluntary basis- and that is a real boon for occasional visitors like me. 

 So this is a valid strategy for preserving an endangered species. However I do think roping off a circle of rods might be sufficient to make the point not to trample the area? A well used track runs along the perimeter of the reserve and that is the route taken by dog walkers, hikers, mountain bikers etc. Very few visitors venture onto the footpath through the reserve itself. 

 Today for example I spoke to 4 or 5 people in the course of several hours. They were all wildflower enthusiasts. Indeed I think they were specifically orchid aficionados, certainly they seemed very knowledgable on the subject. This locale is near my home town of Hitchin but they had all travelled considerable distances to seek out the orchids of Knocking Hoe and would surely respect an unobtrusive boundary.

 Nonetheless it is good to know that the Burnt-tip Orchid and other rarities have a safe haven in this beautiful place. They are cared for in their natural habitat and cherished by those who come to see them.