Essence of Exmoor is an exploration through one of the UK’s most unique habitats. Exmoor is often overlooked, with many seeing it as just a barren stretch of moors and open land. But beneath the surface, Exmoor is far from empty. It has thriving, diverse ecosystems that support a wide variety of wildlife.

This series unveils both, the vast moorlands and intricate woodlands of Exmoor. The moorlands are open areas of heathland that thrive in more exposed regions. The woodlands, however, are typically found in lower, sheltered valleys where the land offers more protection from the harsh winds. The two ecosystems, though distinct, work together to create a varied and biodiverse landscape.

Exmoor may seem to be a rugged environment that is unrestrained and untouched, but in reality, there are many animals whose grazing help to maintain the landscape. The moorlands are carefully managed by land owners, who use semi wild Exmoor ponies, sheep and cattle, to preserve the moorland habitat and prevent it from returning back to woodland.

Exmoor is important as it provides a home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the UK’s largest land mammal, the Red Deer. With their acute hearing and shy nature these cautious animals may quickly run away from potential dangers. Slipping into the landscape, their rusty red-brown coats are the perfect camouflage, making them some of Exmoor’s most elusive wildlife.

Exmoor is a vital habitat for a wide range of bird species, home to smaller birds such as Stonechats, Meadow Pipits, and Skylarks, as well as larger birds of prey, such as Buzzards, Red Kites, Kestrels and various Owl species. Evidence of their presence can be seen throughout the moors, from beautiful feathers which come to rest among the shrubs, to interesting pellets containing bones and hair from the prey they have successfully caught.