UK Terrestrial & Freshwater Habitats

This section of the web site provides detailed infromation on terrestrial and freshwater habitats that are a priority for nature conservation in the UK. These include:

• Coastal Habitats, such as sand dunes and saltmarsh; 
• various types of dry and wet Lowland Grassland Habitats and Lowland Heathland Habitats;
• a range of Freshwater Habitats and Lowland Wetland Habitats, from rivers and lakes to fens and raised bogs;
• a host of Upland Habitats, from blanket bog to limestone pavements; and
• various Woodland Habitats, including lowland mixed deciduous woodland, native pinewoods and wood-pastures.

Collectively, these habitats provide a refuge for many thousands of highly specialised, wild plants and animals.  They are also outstanding natural beauty.  Some are of European or Global significance;  some are largely or entirely restricted to the UK.  Many are classed as priority habitats under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan and form habitat types on Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive.  Nevertheless, many of these habitats have undergone dramatic declines extent and condition, and continue to face major threats.

Use the menu links (left ) to find out more about the characteristics, extent & distribution, pressures & threats, condition, protection, and management of these outstanding wildlife habitats.