Wildlife

The diverse geology and soils of the area provide a varied canvas for a range of wildlife to thrive in Plymouth. Some plant species prefer specific types of soils, while other plants are more adaptable and can thrive in most areas. Many invertebrates are associated with their favourite host plant species or habitats. Birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians are sustained by this diversity of plants and invertebrates.

The interactions between all these species are termed an ecosystem. Ecosystems provide us with valuable services including carbon sequestration, waste decomposition, purification of water and air and nutrient cycling.

There are a large variety of habitats in Plymouth, including coastal cliffs, rivers, reefs, saltmarshes, mudflats, limestone grassland, ancient woodlands, heaths and marshes. These habitats provide opportunities for many different animal species as well as access and recreation opportunities for local residents

There is a great variety of species that can be spotted in and around Plymouth. Offshore, protected species include pink sea fan, common dolphin, sea horses and basking shark. On land, Plymouth is home to both a rare spider (Nothophantes horridusa) and a rare tree, the Plymouth Pear. In the air, you may be able to spot one of the many bat species recorded in Plymouth or catch a glimpse of charismatic bird species such as avocet on the Tamar Estuary or Manx shearwater out to sea.

Please use this section of our website to explore some of the different species that are found in and around Plymouth, how they are protected and how you can help to protect wildlife.

Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery have excellent natural history collections and organise special events - have a look at their Wild About Plymouth page.

See our volunteering page here to find more organizations that can provide information and opportunities for you to get involved with our wildlife.

See our projects page to find out what Plymouth city council is doing to allow wildlife to thrive and allow access and recreation opportunities for local residents.