Located at the most southerly tip of the UK on the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall, three of our Flagship sites; Grochall, Predannack and Windmill Farm, boast some very rare and unique species and habitats.
They are found within an area of serpentine heathland known for its stunning scenery and unparalleled biodiversity value; reflected in their designation as part of the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, West Lizard Sites of Special Scientific Interest and the Lizard Special Area of Conservation.
Grochall, Predannack and Windmill Farm, managed by the Cornwall Wildlife Trust and the National Trust, owe their uncommon species diversity to their underlying serpentine geology and longevity of non-intensive land management. Serpentine rock was formed more than 600 million years ago and started life on the ocean floor. During serious tectonic activity, the ancient sea floor was thrust up against the continental rock and became part of the Lizard landscape seen today.
The three Lizard sites became part of the Flagship Pond network due to the number of priority freshwater species found there, including Three-lobed Water-crowfoot Ranunculus tripartitus, Yellow Centaury Cicendia filiformis, Pygmy Rush Juncus pygmaeus, Lesser Water-plantain Baldellia ranunculoides, Pillwort Pilularia globulifera, Strawberry Stonewort Chara fragifera and Lizard Crystalwort Riccia bifurca.
Grochall
Predannack
Windmill Farm
To find out more click on the image in the gallery below
Location: Cornwall
Accessibility: Some Flagship Pond sites are accessible to the public, and some are not. If in doubt, consult maps for rights of way, look online for site information, or contact the site manager, and follow any instructions on site. It is up to you to check whether you require permission to visit and access the ponds on a site.
Site owners/managers: Cornwall Wildlife Trust and the National Trust