Salmon and trout spawn in gravel found in the upper reaches of Dartmoor's rivers, whilst Palmate newts, frogs and toads breed in the numerous small pools. Perhaps more unexpected are the colonies of Fairy shrimp that live in temporary pools and the very rare Cave shrimp in underground streams.

Moist conditions attract slugs as all gardeners are aware, but the presence of the world’s largest land slug, the Ash black, is less well known. It can grow up to 20 - 30cm in length!

The heathlands hold huge numbers of Common lizard which may often be seen scuttling away in the ground vegetation as you walk across the moors.

Adders

We also have strong populations of adder in some areas, which bask in sheltered patches in full sunshine. Adders are active from March to October and are the UK's only venomous snake. Despite this fact they are actually very shy and will slither off into the undergrowth if disturbed. They are also a priority species and protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

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