Ynys-hir RSPB
Set on the south side of the Dyfi estuary, this reserve mixes the delights of a Welsh oak woodland with the wet grassland and saltmarshes of the estuary. Spring is a wonderful time to visit the woodland when it is full of bird song and spring flowers. Image of Ynys-hir courtesy of Andy Hay/RSPBimages.com
Wildlife highlights: Dippers, kingfishers, sedge, reed and grasshopper warblers inhabit some of the fresh water habitats. There is a heronry where grey herons and little egrets breed; Great and lesser spotted woodpeckers, lapwings, redshanks, redstarts and pied flycatchers, and birds of prey like buzzard, goshawks and red kites can all be seen.
As well as birds and mammals, you might see some of the 19 species of dragonfly, 26 species of butterflies and over 400 species of moths, as well as reptiles like grass snakes, that call Ynys-hir home.
Opening times: The reserve is open from 9 am-9 pm, or dusk if earlier. The visitor centre is open daily 9 am-5 pm from April to October and 10 am-4 pm from November to March (closed Mondays and Tuesdays).
Entrance charges 2011: Free for members. For non-members - £3 adult, £1 child and concession, £6 family
Location: The reserve is situated between Machynlleth and Aberystwyth. Turn off the A487 in the vilage of Eglwys-fach and proceed for one mile to the car park.
Facilities:
- Nature trails: There are two main circular routes: 1.5 miles and 3 miles. Both are unsuitable for wheelchairs. One route is without stiles and the longer route is rugged.
- Viewing points: There are seven hides, two viewpoints and a 1.2 metre feeder outside the visitor centre.
Click here for further information.
These maps are intended as a guideline only; you must check the exact location of the reserve yourself. Wildlife Extra assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or usefulness of the information on this website.
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