Woodland
As you walk, you will see that the woods are dominated by sessile oak, with a mix of ash, birch, rowan, holly, alder and willow. The forest floor is carpeted with bluebells in spring. This is sometimes called ‘temperate rainforest’ or ‘Atlantic rainforest’. At one time it would have covered the Atlantic coast of Europe, thanks to the warm, moist air blowing in from the ocean. The oaks are covered with tree-ferns, moss and lichen. These species are very sensitive to pollution, so they’re a sign of clean air.
The Cleddau River Catchment
Llys-y-Frân Lake forms part of the Cleddau Rivers Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and the Eastern Cleddau River Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The SAC designation covers the river channel and reservoir waterbody only. The SSSI covers the river channel, reservoir waterbody and much of the surrounding habitats around the reservoir including woodlands and some of the grasslands and scrub areas.
The lake forms part of the The Cleddau Trail.
Wildlife & Nature Highlights
Otters
You are more likely to see an otter today in the UK than ever before, yet their elusive nature still makes them a difficult spot.
• FIND OUT MORE •Birds
Llys-y-Frân offers a mix of farmland, woodland, scrub and waterside habitats which attracts a rich array of birdlife.
• FIND OUT MORE •Polecats
Known for its bandit-like appearance, the polecat was once so persecuted it was on the brink of extinction in the UK.
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