Red kites in Ceredigion

1 January 2008 to 31 March 2009

Come and see the magnificent red kites here in the heart of kite country, Ceredigion, west Wales.

Throughout the year kites are fed raw meat placed on the ground at Bwlch Nant yr Arian by Forestry Commission Wales.

These beautiful birds swoop down to pick up the meat and fly in close overhead while eating on the wing.

RSPB Cymru staff and volunteers will be on hand to help you learn more about red kites, as well as all the other birds and wildlife found on and around the lakes and trails.

You can also see footage from a red kite nest (courtesy of The Welsh Kite Trust).

Opening times

The Nant yr Arian visitor centre is open between 10 am and 5 pm (dusk in winter). The Forestry Commission Wales feed the kites every day at 3 pm during the summer and 2 pm during winter.

Staff and volunteers will be on site most days between 1 April-30 September, and at weekends only between 1 October-31 March 2009.

Facilities

No matter your ability, come and enjoy the superb views on a walk around Bwlch Nant yr Arian, and for those with an urge to get muddy there are also mountain bike trails, as well as showers and a bike wash.

A coffee shop serves drinks, homemade soups, meals and cakes everyday, and while enjoying your lunch be wowed by the birds visiting the giant bird feeder on the decking area. There is also a small gift shop within the coffee shop.

Binoculars are available for you to use at the site. There will also be information available on telescopes and binoculars.

How to get there

By car: Bwlch Nant yr Arian is situated 9 miles east of Aberystwyth on the A44 and 2 miles west of the village of Ponterwyd. (Car park fee £1 all day. Season ticket available from forestry office Monday-Friday).

By bus: Take the 525 service from Aberystwyth (Monday-Saturday). Ask to get off at Bwlch Nant yr Arian.

What should I bring?

Visitors are welcome to bring their own food or eat at the visitor centre café. Clothing suitable for wet weather is advisable.

Enquiries

Telephone: RSPB Wales Headquarters on 029 2035 3000

Why not make a day of it?

The Forestry Commission's Nant yr Arian centre is in the beautiful Ceredigion countryside and is close to Aberystwyth, a popular holiday resort on the west coast of Wales. For more information please visit the link below.

• Nant yr Arian

This is a partnership project with the Welsh Kite Trust and Forestry Commission Wales.