Studland and Godlingston Heath National Nature Reserve

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Overview

The Studland and Godlingston Heath NNR features all six British reptiles – the sand lizard, common lizard, slow worm, grass snake, adder and the rare smooth snake. The coastal part of the reserve features a four-mile stretch of sandy beach, with views of the chalk stacks of Old Harry Rocks. Part of it has been a naturist beach since the 1920s. In spring, the reptiles emerge from hibernation, including the male sand lizard with its distinctive bright green flashes, and many can be seen basking in sunny spots on the heaths and dunes. Studland is a stronghold of the rare Dartford warbler. Look out for these small dark birds flitting between gorse bushes or perching on top to sing. Spring also brings migrant songsters such as the chiffchaff and willow warbler. Invertebrates at Studland include 20 species of dragonfly and damselfly, and rare butterflies like the silver-washed fritillary and white admiral. The lagoon of Little Sea supports a large number of overwintering wildfowl, including pochard, teal, goldeneye, pintail, tufted duck, shoveler, gadwall and coot.

Location

STUDLAND, Swanage, BH19 3BA

About the area

Dorset is made up of rugged coastlines, high chalk downlands and a chain of picturesque villages and seaside towns that make up Britain’s Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, noted for its layers of shale and numerous fossils embedded in the rock. Hidden gems of Dorset can be found down winding, country lanes that lead to snug villages hidden from view.