Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them

Explore the captivating wildlife of Devon as we reveal the best locations to encounter these magical creatures in their natural habitats.

Otter Spotting at Halsdon Nature Reserve, near Dolton.

Halsdon Nature Reserve, located near Dolton, offers an enchanting setting for otter spotting along the River Torridge. The reserve, managed by the Devon Wildlife Trust, boasts diverse habitats ranging from ancient woodlands to tranquil wetlands, providing an ideal haven for elusive otters. As you explore the riverbanks and secluded waterways, keep a keen eye out for the telltale signs of otter activity, such as spraints (otter poo) and paw prints on muddy banks. Dawn and dusk are particularly opportune times for spotting these charismatic creatures.

Native Dartmoor Ponies, Belstone

One of the best places to get familiar with the Dartmoor Pony, has to be Belstone, located on the northern edge of Dartmoor National Park (around 5 minutes from Okehampton by car). The village provides a picturesque landscape for Dartmoor pony spotting. As you traverse the open moorland surrounding Belstone, the rugged beauty of the terrain becomes a canvas for encountering these hardy and iconic ponies that have roamed the area for centuries.

Dartmoor ponies, known for their distinctive appearance with a sturdy build and shaggy mane, often graze freely amid the heather-clad hills and granite tors.

The ancient tradition of pony grazing on Dartmoor contributes to the unique ecology of the region.  In Belstone, the ponies often roam free around the village –grab yourselves a pint of Tors lager (and maybe a burger), and pitch up at a picnic table on the green. It won’t be long until you see ponies grazing only feet away from you.

The Deer Trail, Powderham Castle:

The parkland at Powderham Castle, near Exeter, is home to around 600 Fallow Deer, as well as lots of other wildlife! The deer have been a feature of Powderham since the 1700s, with the estate now offering a deer-spotting safari ride by tractor and trailer – what better way to get up close and personal with these majestic beasts?

Goosanders at Meeth Quarry Nature Reserve

Meeth Nature Reserve is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, and among its notable avian residents are the goosanders. These striking waterfowl, with their sleek bodies and distinctive serrated bills, can often be observed on the tranquil waters of the reserve’s lakes.

Meeth provides an ideal habitat for goosanders, offering a mix of wooded areas and open water where they can forage for their preferred prey of fish and aquatic invertebrates. The reserve’s diverse ecosystems create a supportive environment for these elegant birds.

Swim with Seals at Lundy Island

Swimming with seals around Lundy Island is a truly enchanting experience, offering a rare opportunity to interact with these playful marine mammals in their natural habitat.

The waters surrounding Lundy, situated off the coast of North Devon, are home to a thriving population of grey seals. Guided boat tours and snorkelling excursions provide adventurers with the chance to plunge into the crystal-clear Atlantic waters and share moments of curiosity with the inquisitive seals. These sleek and agile creatures often approach swimmers with a mix of grace and curiosity, creating unforgettable encounters.