Goss Moor National Nature Reserve

Our View

Goss Moor NNR is situated in the broad valley basin that forms the headwaters of the River Fal. It contains areas of dry and wet heath, mire, fen and open water, and a diverse mix of habitats. Some of Cornwall’s rarest plants can be found on the site, such as the rare yellow centaury, marsh clubmoss, Cornish moneywort and pillwort. Nearly 30 species of butterfly have been recorded including the marsh fritillary, with 18 species of dragonflies and damselflies, including the rare small red damselfly and the variable damselfly. Dormice live both in the grassy open areas and in areas dominated by willow. Otters are nocturnal visitors, as are roe deer, which can be seen as they venture out to graze. The River Fal and associated wetlands support populations of eel and brook lamprey. Over 70 species of birds breed on the site, and winter visitors include bittern, great grey shrike and hen harrier.