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.
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.
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.
