Cyngor Gwynedd gives boost to two nature reserves

Over the coming months, Cyngor Gwynedd will work with volunteers and local organisations to carry out essential work and further improvements at the Morfa Madryn and Foryd nature reserves.

Morfa Madryn, which is between Llanfairfechan and Abergwyngregyn; and Y Foryd, between Caernarfon and Dinas Dinlle; are both extremely valuable habitats for sea birds feeding on the rich resources of the mud and reeds. Both sites run parallel to the Wales Coastal Path, and are great places to appreciate Gwynedd’s wildlife at its best.

The work is partially financed by grant money through the Welsh Government’s Local Nature Partnerships fund.

Councillor Dafydd Meurig, Cyngor Gwynedd Cabinet Member for the Environment, said: “Y Foryd is well-known locally as somewhere to walk and to enjoy some fresh air and the great views of the Menai Strait.

“But it is also, sadly, popular among illegal campers which can result in problems in terms of litter, anti-social behaviour and harm to wildlife. To help alleviate these issues, the council will build an earthen bund to prevent access to campers, and develop the site as part of a wildflower meadow.

“Additional picnic facilities will also be developed and a new bird hide made from a recycled shipping container will be placed there.”

Morfa Madryn is among the best places in Wales to see the lapwing. But as this fascinating bird builds its nest on the ground it is vulnerable to birds such as crows, or animals such as foxes, taking its eggs and chicks. They are also disturbed by dogs, and as it is very easy for people to accidentally tread on a nest, it is vital to maintain fences to protect them.

Councillor Dafydd Meurig added: “To provide food for the birds, wildflower meadows will be planted alongside, and the grass will be grazed appropriately by cattle.

“What is amazing is that Morfa Madryn was originally created from a site that was used to store building waste from the A55!

“By spring, much of the maintenance work and new developments will be completed, and we therefore plan to hold an open day at Morfa Madryn to attract more volunteers.

“There are enthusiastic local groups already helping to maintain the site, but there is a real need for more help.”

Two of Gwynedd’s popular coastal nature reserves will benefit from additional environmental work this autumn and winter. If you would like more information about the Local Nature Partnership, please contact us on partneriaethnatur@gwynedd.llyw.cymru