Little Haldon Heaths

(Photo provided by Forestry Commission)

Situated to the north of the Teign Estuary, Little Haldon is particularly important for its large areas of lowland heath. Little Haldon is rich in wildlife and the Council-managed site here comprises two small areas of lowland heath, each with a car park and picnic area, linked by a public footpath. Lowland heath habitats began forming over 5,000 years ago when hunter-gatherers became farmers and progressively cleared the native forests. In areas of southern Britain with thin sandy soils such as Little Haldon, heather and gorse soon took root, creating large expanses of heathland. Due to rapid destruction of lowland heathland since 1800, what remains is now vitally important and internationally rare - hence the designation of much of the area as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

Among the rarer plants here are the dainty white climbing corydalis and the parasitic 'dodder' which scrabbles over it's host plant like a tangle of red string. Devon whitebeam is an attractive small tree which is hardly found anywhere outside Devon - but it is quite common at Little Haldon! Stonechat and nightjar - both characteristic birds of heathland, breed here along with yellow hammers and many other species. Common lizard, adder and foxes are often seen on the heathland.

Open all year, March-May is good for the flora. Breeding birds are also best seen in spring and summer. Heathland birds will be on site all year round.
Facilities: Disabled Access, Information Boards, Visitor Centre, Walks.