Summer Wildlife Spotting on Dartmoor National Park

As the warm days of summer grace us with their presence, there's no better time to explore the breathtaking vistas of Dartmoor National Park. 

As you lace up your boots, you may wonder what you’ll see whilst you’re there. Surely it can’t just be rocks…right? Luckily for you, there is 368 square miles for you to explore where the wildlife is endless. With that, let’s go and take a walk on the wild side.

Ponies

No visit is complete without encountering its most famous resident: the wild Dartmoor ponies. You’d be surprised at how many horses there are on Dartmoor, totalling nearly 1500. 

The true Dartmoor pony is a distinct breed and is actually smaller than most horses, but by no means weak, as they are perfectly adapted to the harsh moorland environment. With their shaggy coats and glorious manes, no other word than ‘majestic’ comes to mind. 

You'll spot our charismatic pony friends anywhere on the moors, and if you don’t, you’re probably not on the moors. You’ll find groups of them anywhere, especially in the area around Haytor, Widecombe-in-the-Moor, and Bellever Tor. 

The ponies play a crucial role in maintaining the moor's ecology, their grazing habits help to preserve the unique landscape. Just be careful driving on the moors, as the ponies love, and we mean LOVE, standing on the side of the road and inhaling every blade of grass they possibly can.

Bird Watching 

With over 120 species recorded in the national park, it’s no wonder Dartmoor has become a bountiful birdwatching area. From powerful raptors to tiny woodland songbirds, Dartmoor National Park offers a tapestry of species to watch on a nice, cool and calm moorland day.

Woodland areas like Bellever Forest and Yarner Wood are excellent spots for birdwatching, with Yarner Wood even having its own designated birdwatching areas. Keep your eyes and ears sharp, as careful observers will be graced with the song of the wood warbler or witness the flash of a great spotted woodpecker's red crest. 

Dartmoor's reservoirs, such as Burrator and Fernworthy, attract a variety of waterfowl. Here, you might see great crested grebes performing their elaborate courtship dances or spot a kingfisher darting across the water in a blur of electric blue. And trust us, there is something so unique and peaceful about unplugging from Spotify and listening to the album of nature.

 Butterflies 

One of the most elegant butterflies is the High Brown Fritillary, a rare and endangered species that nestles itself in the moor's bracken-covered slopes. Characterised by its distinctive orange wings with black markings, try looking in areas like Holne Chase and Hembury Woods for a chance to spot some, particularly in July.

In the moorland's acidic bogs and wet heaths, you might spot the Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary, its delicate wings patterned with intricate silver 'pearls'. These charming butterflies can often be seen fluttering among the grass in places like East Dartmoor Woods and Heaths. You may see the striking Peacock butterfly, with its fascinating 'eye' patterns, or the delightful Orange-tip, the males sporting bright orange wingtips that give the species its name. 

Sheep

When you visit Dartmoor National Park, you're guaranteed to encounter the Dartmoor sheep. Much like the ponies, the sheep love making the banks of the roads their grazing spots, making you wonder what the problem is with the other 368 square miles of moorland.

Most of the sheep you'll spot is the Dartmoor White Face, a robust local variety. Characterised by their distinctive white faces and long, thick fleeces. They reside particularly around the areas of Haytor and Widecombe-in-the-Moor. 

Another breed to look out for is the Scottish Blackface, recognisable by their black faces, legs, and curved horns. For the best chance to spot our mini-Scottish pals, head to the moor's more exposed areas. A particular treat awaits those who are insane enough to trek to Yes Tor and High Willhays, which are Devon’s highest points.  

Otters

Dartmoor's rivers and streams aren't just for hopping over on your hike – they're also home to the European otter, one of the worlds most beloved mammals. They have made a remarkable comeback in recent years, with Dartmoor now being home to 35 pairs of otters.

Something you otter bare in mind is that they are notoriously shy, and if you’re patient you may be rewarded with a glimpse of one. The best spots for otter-watching are along the main river systems of Dartmoor National Park. The East and West Dart rivers, particularly around Postbridge and Two Bridges, are prime locations for spotters.

Early mornings and late evenings offer the best chances of seeing otters. Look out for their distinctive V-shaped wake as they swim or listen for the 'plop' as they dive into the water. You might also spot their spraints (droppings) on prominent rocks by the riverside – a sign that otters are active in the area.

Your Dartmoor Getaway

Positioned conveniently in Tavistock, we have everything you need for your Dartmoor excursions. After a successful day of spotting the local wildlife, refuel with a delicious meal from our restaurant and get cosy in one of our 16 luxury rooms.

As you explore, remember that the wildlife plays a vital role in maintaining Dartmoor National Park’s beautiful landscape. Their habits help control scrub growth and maintains the open character of the moor. So, while you admire, remember to keep dogs on leads and respect their space – after all, you’d probably be a bit weirded out if a sheep came into your house and started marvelling at you whilst you were eating.