Managed by Butterfly Conservation together with the Somerset and Bristol branch, the Reserve is 13Ha and is in two connected parcels which are known as Shutes and MtFancy.  The land is on the north scarp face of the Blackdowns and, arising from its confused geology, offers a rich mosaic of habitats. It sits within the Blackdowns AoNB and also forms an important part of the Ruttersleigh SSSi. A five year plan has been prepared and is under review to see how it is meeting the required objectives in the sites' management.

We are a practical conservation group meeting up at 9:30 on the second Tuesday of every month.  Using simple handtools to carry out a variety of tasks, dependant on the season and conditions.
Tasks range from bracken management, keeping the meadows open by cutting back bramble, rushes and saplings, establishing a coppicing rotation for hazel and blackthorn or repairing fences.
Tools are provided, guidance and support is always on hand. The ground is generally rough and uneven, often soft and wet so stout footwear and waterproofs are essential.

how to find mount fancy reserve

Reserves Honorary Wardens

Tony Spiess

Worked as a conservation volunteer for several years within the Blackdowns. Became an honorary warden for the reserve in 2019 and is a committee member on the Somerset and Bristol Butterfly Branch. Provides the logistical, mapping and practical support as required and is the reserves task leader, in conjunction and liaison with the BC Landscape Officer.

Anna Spiess

​Also has worked as a conservation volunteer and became co-honorary warden along with Tony. She has been a transect butterfly walker since 2015 at the nearby Wych Lodge and has built up her butterfly id skills and knowledge. With an oversight to the transect walked at Mount Fancy Reserve.