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Heath and gorse
Our heathland reserves are home to some of Britain's rarest and most exciting wildlife, from smooth snakes and Dartford warblers in the South of England to the unique wildlife of coastal heaths. Enjoy the beautiful colours and scent of heather and gorse, or take a stroll on a summer’s evening to experience the magical sights and sounds of heathland.
Visitor tips
These tips will help you to make the most of your visit:
- Heaths are at their most interesting, and colourful, in spring and summer
- Visit at dusk on summer evenings if you are hoping to see and hear nightjars
- Scan the tops of gorse bushes - favourite perching posts for Dartford warblers, stonechats and other heath birds
- Look in sunny spots for basking reptiles, such as common lizards