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Our work here
10 April 2012
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This Welsh reserve protects a variety of habitats, including broadleaved woodland, upland heath, wet pasture and hay meadows. Breeding birds include hen harriers, peregrines and red kites, while among other notable wildlife are various lower plants and dead wood invertebrates. The RSPB is managing all habitats for their wildlife, and limiting disturbance to sensitive areas.
Working the woods
We are managing our ancient woodlands for the benefit of birds such as redstart and pied flycatcher, as well as their lower plants and invertebrates. We aim to improve the structure and extent of this habitat by controlling alien plants and encroaching bracken, retaining veteran trees and maintaining glades. We will manage the associated pasture and parkland in a similar way, and will expand this habitat using controlled grazing and bracken clearance.
Uplifting uplands
We are managing our upland heath and mire for the benefit of birds such as hen harriers, as well as plants and invertebrates. We will improve the habitat’s structure, and will extend it using selective grazing and by controlling alien plants and bracken. We will also cut and burn for fire protection.
Making hay
We will manage our hay meadow and other grassland habitats for the benefit of their birds, invertebrates and rich plant life. This will involve beneficial farming practices, including the controlled use of grazing and fertilizers. We will also control alien plant species and any invading scrub, while leaving scattered mature hawthorns as nectar sources for invertebrates.
Finding out more
We will learn more about the site and inform our management through monitoring and surveys, targeting priority habitats and key species – such as the greater butterfly orchid. We will also investigate under-surveyed habitats and under-recorded species groups, such as fungi, lichens and bryophytes.
Reaching out
We aim to build up the support of all key stakeholders. We will also promote the reserve locally, whilst retaining a relatively low profile nationally. We will work to develop the reserve’s educational potential, and will showcase our wildlife-friendly land management techniques for any interested parties. Other initiatives will include a spring open day and new incentives for volunteers.