Grassland and mire wildlife areas in Devon are among the county’s most valuable and diverse natural habitats, supporting a rich tapestry of plant and animal life. Found across lowland meadows, river valleys, and upland slopes, these ecosystems range from species-rich hay meadows to waterlogged mires and fens. They provide essential breeding grounds for insects, birds, and amphibians, including rare species such as the marsh fritillary butterfly, snipe, and bog asphodel. Shaped by centuries of traditional land management, Devon’s grasslands and mires are not only important for biodiversity, but also for their role in water purification, flood mitigation, and carbon storage—making them vital to both wildlife and people.