Winter Wildlife on Dartmoor

Where to Spot Wildlife on Dartmoor?

Whilst Dartmoor National Park, which spans 368 square miles, is a good place to start, you may be surprised to learn about the wildlife havens outside of its bounds…

Burrator Reservoir

Burrator Reservoir is a beautiful, tranquil spot that attracts a wide range of bird species throughout the winter months. Kingfishers can often be spotted darting through the air, while ducks and geese gather by the water. If you’re lucky, you might also spot the elusive heron, standing silently by the water’s edge. 

The surrounding woodlands are home to more than just birds; deer and foxes are frequent visitors here, especially in the early mornings and at dusk. Keep your eyes peeled for small mammals like rabbits and squirrels darting through the undergrowth too.

Wistman’s Wood

Wistman’s Wood is one of Dartmoor’s hidden gems, offering an enchanting atmosphere dating back thousands of years. This ancient, moss-covered woodland is an exceptional place to spot winter wildlife on Dartmoor.

The towering oaks and winding paths provide shelter to birds like buzzards, who circle above in search of prey. On the woodland floor, you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a slow-moving adder basking in the sun, warming itself before the colder temperatures of winter take full hold. 

Wistman’s Wood is also home to a wide variety of fungi and lichen, making it an ideal spot for foraging.

Haytor Rock

Haytor is perhaps one of the most well-known spots on Dartmoor, but there’s so much more to it than the famous granite rock formations. The surrounding area is teeming with wildlife, making it a must-visit location for winter wildlife spotting. 

Look out for Dartmoor ponies wandering freely across the moors, their shaggy coats keeping them well insulated against the chill. Birds of prey such as kestrels and buzzards can be spotted soaring above the rocky outcrops.

And, if you’re fortunate enough, you might even see a rabbit or two hopping around the gorse bushes whilst you’re searching for wildlife on Dartmoor. This area is also home to various small mammals, adding to the rich biodiversity of the moors.

Avon Dam Reservoir

For a quieter, more serene experience, Avon Dam Reservoir is a wonderful destination for winter wildlife on Dartmoor. This area is known for its peaceful atmosphere and diverse range of bird species. Look for wagtails and dippers near the water’s edge, and keep an eye out for the occasional peregrine falcon, which has been known to visit the area. 

The surrounding moorland is home to Dartmoor sheep, grazing on the grasses, as well as the iconic Dartmoor ponies. The area is also a great place to spot red deer, especially in the early mornings when the mist is lingering, creating a quintessential English landscape backdrop.

Lydford Gorge

Lydford Gorge is a beautiful location that offers both a pleasant walk and opportunities to spot winter wildlife on Dartmoor along the way. The deep gorge is a haven for birds, with species such as nuthatches, woodpeckers, and various tits flying about the trees. 

The area is also home to small mammals, including squirrels and hedgehogs, who seek shelter in the dense underbrush during the winter. Some people have reported sightings of otters in the river, although they can be quite tricky to catch a glimpse of, so binoculars are at the ready! 

The winter months are also a good time to spot deer in the surrounding woodlands, as they forage for food in the colder months.

Grimspound

Grimspound, a Bronze Age settlement on the moors, offers not only a glimpse into Dartmoor’s rich history but also the chance to spot a variety of winter wildlife. The surrounding open moorland is home to Dartmoor ponies, sheep, and a range of birds such as skylarks and curlews. 

In the winter, the exposed landscape provides the perfect habitat for wintering birds, making it a great spot for birdwatchers. Keep an eye out for red deer, which can be spotted in the area, especially in the quieter, more remote parts of Dartmoor.

Hound Tor

Hound Tor is another spot that offers excellent opportunities to spot wildlife on Dartmoor. The rocky outcrops and heathland surrounding Hound Tor provide a diverse habitat for a variety of wildlife. Look out for kestrels hovering in the air, hunting for small mammals, and if you're visiting at dawn or dusk, you might spot rabbits darting across the moorland. The area is also home to a number of songbirds, including meadow pipits and stonechats, which are often seen hopping about the moorland grasses.

High Willhays

At 621 metres, High Willhays is the highest point on Dartmoor, offering sweeping views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The high-altitude moorland is home to a range of species, including ravens, buzzards, and other birds of prey. 

The area is also home to wild ponies, which graze in the harsh conditions of the high moors. Keep an eye out for deer in the surrounding areas, particularly during the early mornings and late afternoons when they are most active.

What to Bring for an Enjoyable Day of Winter Wildlife Spotting

To make the most of your winter wildlife on Dartmoor, it’s important to be well-prepared. Here’s a quick checklist of items you’ll need for a successful  day:

●       Warm layers: It can get chilly on the moors, so be sure to pack plenty of warm clothing, including a waterproof jacket, hat, and gloves.

●       Sturdy footwear: The landscape can be uneven and muddy, comfortable, waterproof boots are a must-have!

●       Binoculars: If you want to get a closer look at the wildlife on Dartmoor, a good pair of binoculars can come in particularly handy.

●       Camera: Capture your day with some special snaps.

●       Map and compass: Although Dartmoor is well-signposted, it’s always a good idea to bring a map with you.

●       Thermos bottle:: A hot drink will help keep you warm as you observe the rich winter wildlife.