Tan Y Bwlch North Wales Nature Reserve
Surrounded by clawdd (earth and stone) walls, the fields at Tan Y Bwlch North Wales Nature Reserve show how much farming practices have changed over the last century.
It’s estimated that the UK has lost 97% of its traditionally managed hay meadows, making Tan Y Bwlch even more precious.
Traditional hay meadow management methods have been used on the upper meadows for at least 30 years.
These include light cattle grazing in autumn and winter, taking a hay crop in late summer, and avoiding adding any artificial fertilisers or chemicals.
The reserve is at its most vibrant in late June and early July when the white flowers of the greater butterfly-orchid combine with the eyebright, bird’s foot trefoil and black knapweed.
The lower, wetter fields are filled with wet grassland and willow carr, making an excellent habitat for migrant birds such as willow and grasshopper warblers.
There are no walking trails here and conditions can be boggy, so make sure you pack your wellies!
Tan Y Bwlch North Wales Nature Reserve is a superb day out…