Mountains

Moorland

Heather moorland in bloom (Calluna vulgaris), Cairngorms National Park, Scotland, UK - Mark Hamblin/2020VISION

Mountains

What is a mountain?

Mountains are our highest points, with the surrounding land lying much lower in valleys. Their craggy, rock faces are some of the wildest and most spectacular landscapes in the UK. They are often very steep (steeper and higher than hills), and usually over 600 metres high. Moving from the peak, down the slope you may discover heather moorland, bogs and windswept woodland.

Peak District National Park

Ben Hall/2020VISION

Bob Coyle

Did you know?

Though they may seem wild, the moorland habitats found on our mountain slopes have been created by people for sheep grazing. Originally these areas were covered in scrub and woodland. Only the mountain peaks and rock faces are truly wild!

Birds

Birds to spot soaring across this beautiful landscape, or nesting in the moorland, include raven, buzzard, peregrine falcon, red grouse and wheatear.

Download the birds of prey spotter sheet

Mammals

Mammals that live in these special habitats include red deer, polecat, pine marten, wildcat and the stunning mountain hare!

Download the grazing mammal spotter

 

Minibeasts

Lots of amazing creepy-crawlies can be found if you just look closer! Keep an eye out for spiders, honey bees, bumble bees, heather beetles and moths.

Download the moth spotter sheet

Other habitats