An investigation is under way following complaints about the destruction of woodland in Monikie.
Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS) told contractors acting on behalf of the new owners to stop any further tree removal at the “valuable wildlife site”.
Monikie residents urged FCS to immediately put the brakes on the felling after claiming a unique wet woodland was being destroyed.
The land comprises approximately 1.67 acres of mixed amenity woodland and was formerly a curling pond owned by the Earls of Dalhousie.
The pond is known to be a wildlife haven for toads, frogs and newts, while the Scots pines are home to red squirrels and the wet woods are an active hunting ground for bats.
A Forestry Commission Scotland spokesman said: “We are aware of the felling at Monikie and our team has been on site to investigate.
“We advised contractors acting on behalf of the new owners to stop any further tree removal. We’re concerned about the removal of trees at this valuable wildlife site and are meeting with the new owners.
“We’re also in touch with government, local authority and community stakeholders. Forestry Commission Scotland greatly appreciates the contact from local residents.”
Residents said it was “a travesty” that the area has not had the appropriate level of planning protection despite repeated requests.
Rae Gray said: “The site is of significant environmental importance given its proximity to Monikie Country Park.
“The council recently spent £24,000 constructing an amphibian barrier around the site, it is number 81 on the national database of amphibian crossings which enable toads, frogs and newts to cross the road to breeding grounds in March each year.
“An otter tunnel was also constructed under the road to connect the area with feeding grounds in the country park.
“The Scots pines, a relative rarity in this area, and protected as a native species are home to the rapidly diminishing population of red squirrels, and the wet–woods are an active hunting ground for bats.”
Fellow local Elaine Hackney said: “Angus Council have failed to provide any protection despite numerous warnings from local residents.
“Forestry Commission Scotland have been an excellent help but they have been hampered by the retrospective nature of their powers.”
Residents have accused the new owner of attempting to remove the potential problem of a richly biodiverse habitat before it is taken into consideration as part of a planning application.
Locals will now campaign for a reinstatement of the wet woodland and that a restocking order will result in re-planting of the willows.
A spokesman for Angus Council said: “Our officers have visited the site and are also aware of correspondence from and in discussion with various parties regarding this issue.
“At present the site does not benefit from any additional protection beyond that offered by the Forestry Commission’s Felling Licence requirements and exemptions.
“We are aware Forestry Commission officers visited the site last week and our own officers continue to closely monitor the situation.”
The land was put up for sale at offers over £10,000 last year.
Efforts to speak to the new landowner proved unsuccessful despite numerous attempts.
