The maritime heath habitat is typically found on sloping coasts very close to the sea. It is distinguished from dry heaths, which can be found within metres, by low-growing swards with ling (Calluna vulgaris) forming more than 25% vegetation cover, an abundance of spring squill (Scilla verna) and an absence of gorse (Ulex spp). The EU Habitats Directive includes maritime heaths in ‘Vegetated sea cliffs’ habitat class rather than the ‘European dry heaths’ class. The extent of the habitat is influenced by the extent of salt deposition during winter storms, which determines the area available both to spring squill and gorse. Intensive sheep-grazing is a threat to this habitat and can result in the removal of the ericoid components.