In good condition, there is plenty of water, so it is visible on the surface, slowly flowing through larger and smaller pools.

You will see small grasses and especially the peat moss that grows well in wet conditions. The moss stores lots of water and makes the peatland appear in a typical red-green-brown mosaic.

© SNH. Peat forming mosses (sphagnum)

Peatlands in good condition continue to grow by adding more and more layers of peat. While growing, carbon is taken up from the atmosphere as carbon dioxide (CO2) and stored as peat:

This reduces the amount of carbon in the atmosphere, where it would otherwise contribute to climate change.

Water that flows from peatlands in good condition is usually clear and of good quality. This means less need for water treatment.

The water quality is also good for fish living downstream, especially for salmon and trout.

Peatlands in good condition are home to various birds and wildlife species.

This includes waterfowl and wading birds such as Curlew, and predators such as hen harrier and red kite.

Lizards are abundant, and so are insects such as moths, midges and dragonflies.

Some plants such as the insect-eating sundew are common.