South Hams LPA BNG

South Hams supports a diverse mix of terrestrial, coastal, and wetland habitats, many of which are recognised under national and local biodiversity priorities.

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Coastal and Estuarine Habitats

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Maritime Cliff and Coastal Grassland: Found along the coast between Salcombe and Start Point; support specialist plant communities and seabirds.

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Estuaries and Mudflats: Including parts of the Dart and Avon Estuaries; important for waders, wildfowl, and marine invertebrates.

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Saltmarsh and Coastal Grazing Marsh: Contribute to flood management and biodiversity, especially in low-lying coastal zones.

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Woodland and Scrub Habitats

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Lowland Mixed Deciduous Woodland: Widespread in valleys and on estate lands; key habitat for bats and woodland birds.

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Ancient Woodland and Wet Woodland: Present in sheltered valleys and along river corridors.

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Scrub and Hedgerow Networks: Provide vital nesting and foraging sites, especially for protected bat species.

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Grassland Habitats

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Lowland Meadows and Species-Rich Pasture: High-value habitats found in traditional farmland and AONB locations.

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Modified Grassland: Common on improved farmland and public greenspaces; offers BNG potential through sensitive management.

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Wetland and Watercourse Habitats

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Rivers and Streams: The Rivers Dart, Avon, and Erme flow through the district; serve as ecological corridors for fish, otters, and aquatic invertebrates.

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Ponds and Springs: Occur across rural landscapes, often linked to farmland biodiversity.

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Cropland and Farmland Habitats

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Arable Land and Leys: Present throughout inland South Hams; enhancement opportunities include field margins, cover crops, and hedgerow planting.

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Devon Banks and Species-Rich Hedgerows: Defining features of the landscape; crucial for bats, birds, and pollinators.