Ynys Hir October 13th 2012

On October 13^th ACV braved the rain and wind to volunteer at Ynys Hir, an RSPB reserve relatively close to Aberystwyth. Many of you may recognise the name – this is where the last Springwatch was filmed!

13 ACV members met bright and early to get down to work. Our task this week was right infront of the visitors centre, clearing brambles and brash to create habitat piles, and hence an excellent environment for grass snakes. The setting was beautiful – a view of the lake and mountains infront, and the reserve’s ever-busy bird feeders just behind us. They were bustling with bird-life and squirrels all day!

 
ACV successfully cleared this large patch, and even though we were told it was the wrong time of year for grass snakes, we did find one – though definitely not a very live one!

  

After all the hard work, we took a well-deserved break to walk around and enjoy the reserve. We found an amazing hide half way round, which offered an incredible view of the Dyfi estuary.

Thanks to all ACV volunteers for braving the rain showers and to Ynys Hir for having us. As always, we look forward to returning to the reserve in the future!

 

By Rachel Say

For more information on Ynys Hir - http://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/y/ynys-hir/