Today natural succession might be considered a threat, as without intervention the site would eventually dry out and revert to woodland. This process is being checked by grazing with, amongst other stock, the Exmoor pony - itself an ancient breed. Grazing levels are set to attain the balance of scrub and structure of vegetation that is considered suitable for the species inhabiting the nature reserve.

One of the rarest species present is the marsh fritillary butterfly. 		reney Common and Goss Moor, managed by English Nature, are being designated as a Special Area of Conservation partly due to the presence of the marsh fritillary. Interestingly, Goss Moor was also heavily tin streamed in the past.
Callum Deveney
Alpha Dredge 1908 Photo: Mr D Yates Bucket dredge 1912-14 Photo: Mr D Yates
Red Moor access
 From the A30/A391 roundabout, south-west of Bodmin, take the A389 towards Bodmin. Turn right to go under the A30, then first left. After 2.3km (1½ miles), turn right towards Fenton Pits. Continue for 2.2km (1½ miles) and turn right for Tredinnickpits. Access to the reserve is via a track leading off a triangle formed by the roads in Tredinnickpits. (SX 075 622). The reserve may also be reached from Helman Tor along the Saints’ Way.
(SX 064 611)

Breney Common access
 From the A30/A391 (Innis Downs) roundabout south of Bodmin, turn north to Lanivet and then take the first right under the A30 bridge. Take the first left shortly after the bridge. At Reperry Cross, turn right and make sure you take the left fork to Trebell Green. Go straight on at Trebell Green towards Gurtla. The entrance to the reserve is on the left in Gurtla, after the Methodist Church - opposite The Barn. (SX 054 610)
Exmoor ponies - habitat managers in action
Photo: Stuart Hutchings
Supported by:
Pennon Water Champions
English Nature