Heathland is an important and distinctive habitat across Scotland, covering an estimated 21 – 31% of our land area.
Upland heath occurs widely on acidic mineral soil and shallow peat and is dominated by stands of dwarf shrubs including common heather or ling, blaeberry, bell heather and cross-leaved heath.
Upland heath also includes many other flowering plants as well as a characteristic array of mosses and lichens. The flowering dwarf shrubs are a valuable nectar source and provide a habitat for birds such as red grouse, black grouse, merlin and hen harrier. Although a relatively common habitat, occurring throughout the uplands, Scotland is the European stronghold for upland heath.
Photos: © Jim Richardson & National Trust for Scotland
Action Needed
- Work with land managers to safeguard and enhance heathland habitats.
- Promote best practice guidance (e.g. low intensity conservation grazing, reduction of fire management, retain wetter areas).
- Enforce deer management legislation which prioritises the conservation and recovery of habitats and species.
- Help promote action to reduce the impacts of climate change.
- Ensure the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy is fully implemented.
Threats
- Habitat degradation and fragmentation through afforestation, farming, roads and other developments.
- Overgrazing from sheep and deer
- Fires, especially when combined with overgrazing
- Drainage of wet heath
- Bracken encroachment
- Climate change impacts (e.g. an increase in wildfires)
MSP Nature Champion
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