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A Glorious South Devon Summer

We are getting into the depths of summer now and hoping for our fair share of good weather! After the all the activity of spring, summer can feel a little quieter on the wildlife front however there is still plenty to see! Species such as Nightjar and Dartford Warbler will be breeding on the heathland and there are many species of invertebrates to look out for.

In this update, we will point out some great wildlife to look out for and how best to look after protected wildlife sites nearby.

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Nightjar - Species Spotlight 

Bat-like and historically known as the “Goat Sucker”, Nightjars are a bird shrouded in mystery and an endangered species in the UK. Read more to learn about some of their interesting biology and breeding behaviour, how best to see them and how to look after them when you visit the heaths.

Summer on the River! 

During the summer there’s no better way to spend an afternoon than out on the water enjoying the estuary. The Exe is a busy place with a huge variety of craft, from large fishing trawlers and yachts to stand-up paddle boarders and kite surfers, as well as internationally important wildlife. With so much going on it’s important to do some research before you head out!

Heath Week Returns!

August saw the return of Heath Week celebrations and we hosted a Heath Week Hub at a different site every day.  It was great to speak to so many people about the ecology and history of our local heathland.

Exe Estuary wildlife refuges With heatwave after heatwave, it might seem a little premature to talk about overwintering birds on the Exe Estuary. However, birds have a different idea of summer and winter to us -  the first Dark-bellied Brent Goose has already been spotted and bird numbers will continue to build from late August. A reminder that the Exmouth wildlife refuge will come into effect between 15/9 - 31/12 to help our exhausted migrant birds feed and rest. Dawlish Warren wildlife refuge is year-round. Again, a huge "THANK YOU!" to all our visitors to the estuary for helping us take care of these internationally important areas.

Spotter's guide

Silver Studded Blue 

A rare heathland species on the wing from June to late August.

Golden Ringed Dragonfly 

A striking and large dragonfly the Golden Ringed Dragonfly is associated with acidic streams and heathlands.

Emerald Damselfly.

Common but declining in the UK. The Emerald Damselfly favours still water ponds bordered by tall vegetation like rushes and sedges.