National nature reserves in Wales facts for kids

National nature reserves in Wales are special places chosen and looked after by Natural Resources Wales (NRW). NRW is like a big team that helps protect Wales's environment. There are 76 of these reserves across Wales. They cover a huge area, about 265 square kilometers! That's less than 1.5% of all the land in Wales.

These reserves are super important because they protect amazing plants, animals, and unique landscapes. They can be small, like Dan yr Ogof, which is only half a hectare (that's about half a football field). Or they can be really big, like Berwyn, which is almost 8,000 hectares! Most of these special places are open for you to visit and explore. They include mountains, lowlands, islands, and even areas where rivers meet the sea.

Who Looks After These Special Places?

Most of the national nature reserves are managed by Natural Resources Wales (NRW). But many other groups also help out! These groups often include public organizations and charities that care about wildlife.

Here are some of the groups that help manage these reserves:

Exploring National Nature Reserves in Wales

Each national nature reserve in Wales is unique and special. They protect different types of habitats and wildlife. Here are a few examples of these amazing places:

Aberbargoed Grasslands: A Home for Butterflies

Beautiful flowers at Aberbargoed Grasslands.

This reserve is in Caerphilly. It became a national nature reserve in 2012. It's known for its beautiful grasslands. Many different plants and insects, like butterflies, live here. It's a great place to see nature up close.

Berwyn: Wild Mountains and Moorlands

The vast landscapes of the Berwyn mountains.

The Berwyn reserve is spread across Denbighshire, Gwynedd, and Powys. It's one of the largest reserves in Wales, covering nearly 8,000 hectares! It became a reserve in 1999. This area is famous for its wild mountains and open moorlands. It's a haven for birds and other wildlife that love high places.

Cadair Idris: A Mountain of Legends

Llyn Cau, a stunning lake in Cadair Idris.

Located in Gwynedd, Cadair Idris became a reserve in 1983. This reserve is centered around the famous mountain of Cadair Idris. It's a place of stunning views and ancient rocks. Many people enjoy hiking here. The reserve protects the unique plants and animals that live on the mountain slopes.

Coed Cymerau: Waterfalls and Woodlands

A beautiful waterfall in Coed Cymerau.

This reserve is found in Gwynedd and was established in 1992. Coed Cymerau is known for its beautiful woodlands and flowing water. You can find lovely waterfalls here. It's a peaceful place where trees and river life thrive.

Cors Caron: A Vast Peat Bog

The wide-open spaces of Cors Caron.

In Ceredigion, Cors Caron became a reserve in 1981. It's a very large peat bog, which is a special type of wetland. Peat bogs are important because they store carbon and are home to rare plants and insects. It's a unique and important habitat.

Dyfi: Where River Meets the Sea

The wetland landscape of Dyfi National Nature Reserve.

The Dyfi National Nature Reserve is in Ceredigion and Gwynedd. It was established in 1992. This reserve protects a large area where the River Dyfi meets the sea. It includes saltmarshes, sand dunes, and a big peat bog called Cors Fochno. It's a vital place for many birds and marine life.

Newborough Warren & Ynys Llanddwyn: Coastal Beauty

The iconic lighthouse at Ynys Llanddwyn.

This beautiful coastal reserve is on Anglesey. It became a reserve in 1992. It includes sand dunes, a forest, and the tidal island of Ynys Llanddwyn. It's a fantastic spot for wildlife, especially birds. The views of the coast are also amazing.

Rhinog: Rugged Mountains and Lakes

Llyn Du, a dark lake in the Rhinog mountains.

The Rhinog reserve is in Gwynedd and was established in 1970. This area is known for its rugged mountains and clear lakes. It's a wild and remote place that protects unique mountain habitats. It's a great spot for those who love challenging hikes and stunning scenery.

Yr Wyddfa: Wales's Highest Peak

The majestic Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) mountain.

Located in Gwynedd, Yr Wyddfa (also known as Snowdon) became a reserve in 1966. This reserve protects the highest mountain in Wales and its surrounding areas. It's a very popular place for hikers. The reserve helps protect the special plants and animals that live in this high mountain environment.

Images for kids

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  A view across Cors Bodeilio, Anglesey, Wales.

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  A view across Cors Erddreniog, Anglesey, Wales.

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  A view across Cors Goch, Anglesey, Wales.

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  Valley mire at Corsydd Llangloffan.