Loveny/Colliford Reservoir nature reserves

Habitat type: Heathland and open water Size of Reserve: 128ha (316 acres) OS Map No. 109 Grid reference: SX 180 742 Best time to visit: All year
Cornwall Wildlife Trust encourages the use of environmentally friendly forms of transport wherever possible. Click on the locator map above to go to the National Cycle Network website and view an Ordnance Survey map of this reserve highlighting nearby cycle routes.

Directions:

On the A30, 13 miles (21km) south of Launceston, is a turning for Colliford Reservoir. A footpath may be followed to the edge of the reserve from Deweymeads car park, 1 mile (1.5km) along the road.

Access:

Restricted. Parking is available and there are several tracks that lead around the reservoir. The surface is uneven and can be very wet and muddy. Stout, waterproof footwear is recommended.

Classification

Description:

The reserve is an important ornithological site. The shore slopes gently to the reservoir.

Characteristic wildlife of this reserve:

The lapwing, a wader frequently seen at this reserve, is a master of aerial manoeuvre, particularly in its mating flight. The male's wild gyrations are accompanied by plaintive whistling, as it performs wide circles and soaring climbs before hurtling down in twists and turns, never losing control. The lapwing is striking and colourful with its long wispy crest, green back and rich chestnut patches below the tail.

The golden plover spends the autumn and winter in Cornwall on moorland such as is found at Loveney. The plaintive chorus of these birds is very evocative, while a flock of plover in flight will pass overhead very swiftly, their sharply pointed wings enabling the plovers to participate in mass aerial manoeuvres. In the spring, some birds may be seen in their distinctive breeding dress of black underparts and gold-speckled upperparts.

Other information:

The reservoir was constructed in 1981 and flooded in 1984.

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