Although Moors Valley attracts many thousands of visitors each year the rich mosaic of habitats created by the broadleaf and coniferous woodlands, the lakes, river, heathland, meadows and scrub has enabled a rich and varied wildlife to develop. The Moors River and Lakes in particular are an important habitat for wildlife. Resident birds on the lakes include Grey Herons and Great Crested Grebes as well as ravenous Mallards and Mute Swans (guard your picnics well!), Tufted Ducks, Pochard and Teal are just some of our winter visitors. Over 20 species of dragonfly and damselflies can be spotted during the summer months.  Most mammals are harder to see, grey squirrels and rabbits being the exceptions. Roe Deer, Badger, Bats and a variety of small mammals live at the park but are most active out of opening hours and your best chance to see them would be to attend one of our wildlife events. The forest is the place for reptiles with adders, slow worms and common lizards often seen. They also provide a summer home for the Nightjar, a nocturnal bird with a passion for moths and an unmistakable churring call. Throughout the summer months you will be able to see wildflowers along the path edges including Comfrey, Ragged Robin, Bluebells and Purple Loosestrife. They in turn help attract many butterflies, moths and other insects. Later in the year it is the trees that hold the attention; the Dog Woods and Maples especially give an excellent display of autumn colours and a great number of toadstools and other fungi can be seen on the woodland floor. Special events are held to introduce adults, children and families to different aspects of Moors Valley wildlife please take a look at the events page for details. A range of wildlife guides including wildflowers, bats, mammals, water birds, dragonflies and butterflies are available to buy from the Visitor Centre.              Copyright © East Dorset District Council 2008. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission from East Dorset District Council is prohibited.