Dartmoor Ponies spark rare bird revival in new conservation survey at Bellever

A new wildlife survey at Bellever has recorded a strong rise in several endangered bird species, with conservation grazing by Dartmoor’s heritage ponies credited as a major factor. 

Earlier this week, the findings were released by the Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust (DPHT), which manages the 82-hectare site.

READ NEXT: Devon Trading Standards warns Christmas shoppers to check toy safety before buying

The survey, carried out during spring and summer 2025, showed breeding activity from nine red and amber-listed species. 

Birds recorded include Cuckoo, Grasshopper Warbler, Whinchat and the fast-declining Tree Pipit. 

According to the Trust, results reflect the positive impact of conservation grazing.

Native ponies help maintain open ground by feeding on scrub and coarse vegetation that can otherwise overwhelm key habitats, therefore creating feeding and nesting areas for ground-nesting species.

A spokesperson for the Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust said:

“This is great news and proof that traditional land management can enhance biodiversity. Our ponies are not just part of Dartmoor’s heritage but also frontline conservationists.”

According to the survey, Tree Pipit numbers at Bellever Tor have more than doubled, an increase the Trust describes as particularly encouraging because the species has seen long-term national decline. 

The presence of breeding Cuckoo, Skylark and Whinchat also points to wider habitat recovery across the site.

ABOVE: Male Stonechat at Bellever (Image: Malcolm Snelgrove)

Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust says the results underline the importance of long-term stewardship on upland landscapes. “These results should be a wake-up call,” the spokesperson said. “With the right stewardship, our moorlands can thrive again.”

Recent findings add to growing examples of conservation grazing being used to restore biodiversity in upland settings. 

The Trust believes the Bellever model could be adapted elsewhere, especially in areas where bird numbers have fallen due to scrub encroachment and habitat loss.

Full details of the 2025 survey are available directly from the Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust.

Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust is a charity that works to halt the decline of Dartmoor’s Heritage Ponies by supporting breeders and keepers and raising awareness of the ponies’ role in shaping the landscape. 

The organisation also promotes the ponies’ value in wildfire prevention, biodiversity protection and cultural heritage.