The reserve includes dry and wet heathland, bog and ancient woodland.

The heath is one of the few places where all six native British reptile species occur, and it also supports many other heathland animals, plants and birds.

Rare heathland birds such as Eurasian Hobby, nightjar, Dartford warbler and woodlark have been recorded as breeding on the reserve.

Grazing ceased in the mid-20th century, leading to long-term deterioration in the structure and composition of the habitat.

Plans are under way to install cattle grids on the minor roads crossing the heath, and then to begin grazing again.