DTE North East: About our ranges
DTE North (East) consists of several training areas. Geologically, the underlying limestones and shales are very old and there are glacial deposits from the Ice Age. Numerous interesting fossils (many marine) have been found. The many archaeological remains include sites of prehistoric settlements and examples of rock art.
The area has some rare species of plants and animals. More common animals include badgers, mink, roe deer, foxes and protected bat colonies. There are several rare species of birds, including black grouse and the English grey partridge. Raptors include merlin, peregrine and several types of owl. The many butterflies, moths and other insects include some uncommon species.
Caterick training area
This includes a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Feldom training area
Feldom is a 2,543 hectare moorland plateau with a number of woods.
Battery Hill ranges
This 213 hectare site is on the eastern side of the Pennines where trees are scarce. There is also an area of undulating moorland with some rocky outcrops.
Ripon Parks training area
This is 275 hectares of mixed arable land, including ponds, lakes and some woodlands.
Strensall ranges and training area
This 650 hectare site includes flat lowland heath, woodlands, drainage ditches and ponds.