I TAKE issue with some of the unsubstantiated claims made by Dr Chris Reading’s letter (Heathland grazing plans misguided) and further more his claims are not backed up by expert research undertaken by Natural England and the RSPB.

Chris is absolutely on the button with the importance of heathland for the very many species of wildlife that are dependent upon it being well managed.

His dislike of grazing livestock is misguided because providing the stocking is at the right density, it controls and reduces some invasive species such as wavy hair grass and purple moor grass that can out compete some more beneficial species such as heather. Well managed grazing can help to increase species diversity.

An increase in areas of bare ground is also beneficial for many insects that rely on these areas for foraging and making a home.

Many heathland species require a range of habitats such as tall, short and bare ground to thrive.

In Dorset’s small patchwork of heathland areas, grazing is the most effective tool.

Sand lizards for example spend much of their time living in tall mature heather but require open, sandy areas in which to lay their eggs.

Carefully managed grazing can help suppress scrub growth and give a structural diversity that helps increase insect prey and the birds and reptiles dependant on them.

Contrary to some claims, grazing actually helps to reduce the level of nutrients in the heathland system.

The secret is to have livestock controlled to achieve the desired effect. The high grazing pressure mentioned in the New Forest can have an adverse effect and we can all learn from that lesson.

There is no need for heathland managers to fear the introduction of grazing, the benefits outweigh the ecological impacts providing they are not overgrazed.

The loss of natural habitat and pollution still remains the biggest threat to all of our wildlife.

MIKE FRY, Moorland Crescent, Upton