The island is managed for nature conservation.  The topography of the island is very unusual for its size (approximately 60 acres) in that it has a main dividing valley and valley off-shoots providing a variety of habitat types.  The long-term aim is to enhance the conservation value of Lingay by increasing and encouraging species and habitat diversity.

At the time of purchase the sheep were removed as the island was heavily overgrazed.  Since then the indigenous flora has regenerated and flowers, insects and wildlife are not only seen in abundance, but populations have increased.

It is common to see other Grey and Common Seals, Otters and their young, porpoise, etc.

Flora and Fauna

Lingay is incredibly rich in its biodiversity.  Some of the plants include Heath Spotted Orchid, Devils Bit Scabious, Yellow Flag, Cotton Grass, Crowberry, Butterwort, Lousewort, Thrift, Sea Campion and Orache to name but a few!

Butterflies such as the Common Blue, Painted Lady, Tortoiseshell and Red Admiral are regularly seen, as well as moths including Emperor, Fox and Garden Tiger.  Bees, Hoverflies and Bumble bees are abundant and frequently Bumble Bee nests are found on the drier slopes and dragonflies frequent the ponds.