Landford Bog Nature Reserve

A small Reserve in the south east of the county, Landford Bog is a fine example of the now internationally rare lowland bog and wet heath habitats. These have suffered greatly in the last fifty years, with many being drained to make way for farmland or housing, or stripped to provide compost for the horticultural market. It is estimated that only 6% of natural bogs remain in the UK, making it one of the rarest habitats in the country. Because of the narrow range of plants that can survive the wet, acidic conditions, Landford Bog has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and is included in the New Forest Special Area of Conservation (SAC).

The bog is in the centre of the Reserve and is a floating carpet of feathery sphagnum moss that supports an undulating expanse of Heather (Calluna vulgaris) and clumps of Purple Moor-Grass (Molinia caerulea). All of this is punctured by dark pools of water. On the eastern side of the Reserve is a wet woodland – or Carr – of broadleaved willow. Purple Moor Grass dominates the ground here, the shade preventing other plants from setting seed. Without any surrounding vegetation, the shape of the tussocks is revealed.

Wildlife

Some plants have adapted to the nutrient-poor conditions by becoming carnivorous. The diminutive Common Sundew (Drosera rotundifolia) is a good example. Its sticky red tentacles radiating from spoon shaped leaves trap small insects which are then slowly digested after the leaves curl up on its prey. The Butterwort (Pinguicula vulgaris) is another insectivore; using a rosette of leaves at the base of its stem to trap insects.

The animals are just as dramatic, the main species being the Raft Spider (Dolomedes fimbriatus) , one of the UK’s largest spiders. It is only found in boggy areas and therefore is extremely uncommon. It lives on the edge of dark pools waiting to feed on large prey such as flies, dragonflies and damselflies. Moles (Talpa europaea) have also made a home here in the wet woodland bordering the Reserve.

History and management

Such a unique habitat requires careful management. If left unattended the bog would slowly turn into woodland. New Forest ponies, which graze the turf closely, keep the scrub down and stop any plants encroaching. They are also hardy enough to cope with the wet ground conditions.

Other Information

Dogs are allowed, but must be on a short leash at all times of year.
Best time to visit: Summer
Habitat: Wet heath, bog, wet woodland
Specialities of the reserve: Raft Spider, Common Sundew, Butterwort
Location: From Salisbury take the A36 towards Southampton. After 10 miles turn to Landford, on to the B3079. Go through village, heading towards Bramshaw. As road starts to incline the reserve entrance can be found on the left-hand side. Parking available in small lay-by just outside kissing gates at grid reference SU259186.