Highlights from a vist to Malham Tarn Moss. Definitely one of the better National Nature Reserves.
Due to the areas geology and high rainfall the moss has areas of both sphagnum moss bog and fen. This leads to an extremely rich flora. In addition there’s also plenty of Roe Deer, House Martins, Curlews, Siskins and Wheatears.
 Common Bladderwort |
 Traps/Bladders on the underwater stems |
 A tangle of thousands of underwater traps. Amazingly each tiny trap contains a vacuum. When an unsuspecting water flea swims by it triggers a “hair” which in turns opens the trap causing a drop of water and the unfortunate water flea to be sucked inside. The trap instantly seals and the insect is absorbed. |
 The black traps are occupied, the green ones are awaiting their next victim. |
 Another more common plant with an interest in passing insects. Whereas the Common Bladderwort is a rare aquatic plant of fenland marshes the Round leaved Sundew is restricted to acidic Sphagnum bog. Although worlds apart their victims share the same fate. |
 Just to make sure nothing passes by the Sundews even secrete a sweet sticky substance to draw their victims in. |
 Bog Asphodel |
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