Ash Moor Nature Reserve

Managed by the Devon Wildlife Trust, Ash Moor Nature Reserve lies just north of Hatherleigh in West Devon. Though now a beautiful haven for wildlife, the site has a troubled past.

In 2001, it was selected as a mass burial site for livestock culled during the foot-and-mouth outbreak, and a vast pit was excavated at a cost of several million pounds. However, the pit was never used, and two years later, Defra agreed to restore the lost grasslands, hedgerows, and woodlands. After managing the site for five years, Defra handed it over to the Devon Wildlife Trust, which transformed it into a thriving landscape of meadows, ponds, and wetlands, rich in biodiversity.

In spring, the woodlands burst into life with birdsong. Listen for tree pipits, wood warblers, blue tits, and great tits, while jays can be heard screeching among the trees.

Summer brings an abundance of dragonflies and damselflies, which are drawn to the reserve’s ponds. These, in turn, attract swallows and sand martins, while hobbies can often be seen hunting over the water.

During winter, the wetlands provide feeding grounds for jack snipes, common snipes, and woodcocks, which probe the mud with their long bills in search of worms. Barn owls are also frequently spotted hunting at dusk.

A network of trails weaves through the reserve, though some areas can be wet and challenging, so sturdy boots or wellies are recommended. A section of boardwalk provides easier access, making part of the reserve suitable for pushchairs and wheelchair users. A viewing platform offers stunning views across the landscape, with information boards to help visitors identify local wildlife.

Please note, dogs are welcome on the reserve, but must be kept on a lead at all times.