Craddocks Moss

All about Craddocks Moss

Craddocks Moss is a unique lowland raised bog located to the west of Newcastle-under-Lyme in Staffordshire.

Many years ago non-native trees were planted on the bog. This completely dried out the peat and destroyed the habitat for many types of insects, birds and plants. Hardly any wildlife was found there. 

Thankfully, the site was later recognised for it's uniqueness and steps were taken to repair the damage. Most of the trees were removed, so that the bog could rewet and start to recover. This on-site recovery work showed that this precious habitat could once again be an oasis for wildlife. 

In 2019 we had the chance to buy Craddocks and we jumped at the chance. We were only able to do so thanks to the generosity of our members, and crowdfunding donations. After the successful fundraising appeal we became the new owners on 8th December.

It was already a haven for rare plants like sphagnum mosses and cottongrass and the four spotted-chaser dragonfly is making a cautious return. Under our care we hope that in time more wildlife will return to this diverse habitat. It could even be a good home for threatened wildlife like the white face darter dragonfly, water voles and beavers.  

Please note that due to the deep peat pools on the site it is a dangerous place and has no public access.

Photography: ®Ben Whiles © Adam Jones, ©Chris Lawrence, ©David Cadman , ©Jon Hawkins Surrey Hills Photography, ©Nick Upton, ©Terry Whittaker/ 2020 Vision, ©Vicky Nall.