This habitat occurs on acid soils throughout Scotland. Wet heath includes a wide range of vegetation communities composed of heath species, wetland herbs, rushes and sedges. Dry heath tends to be dominated by heath species.

Heathland habitat is moderately attractive to stock. Heather and to a lesser extent blaeberry are vulnerable to heavy grazing pressure and sustained heavy grazing coupled with burning may convert the heath to a species-poor grassland.

Where there is an adequate seed source and low grazing levels, this habitat may readily develop into woodland. If woodland is not sought, moderate levels of grazing will be needed to prevent regeneration. In section 6 of these guidance notes you will find guidance on setting stocking densities in woodland containing significant areas of this habitat.

Heathlands may be included in the UK Biodiversity Habitat Action Plan - Upland Heathland .

Heathland may contain juniper. It is potentially good habitat for upland birds such as black grouse and invertebrates. The marsh fritillary butterfly may be present in flushed wet heath, especially when occurring in a mosaic with damp acid grassland, Molinia grassland and rush pasture.