Pembrokeshire’s iconic puffins are just some of the wealth of wildlife protected by Wales’ National Parks

Nothing evokes the handsome and rugged wildness of Wales like exploring the National Parks by the coast, says Andrew Hall, Communications Officer for the UK’s Campaign for National Parks

THREE BEAUTIFUL WELSH NATIONAL PARKS: Snowdonia, the Pembrokeshire Coast and the Brecon Beacons, are undoubtedly the beating heart of Wales. In the ‘Year of the Sea’, walking the Wales Coast Path is a fantastic way to appreciate the rich tapestry of these living landscapes, and the cultural heritage and wildlife within them.

Coastal magnificence

While Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is well known for its proximity to the sea, Snowdonia’s watery edge is sometimes overlooked. But they both offer spectacular havens for coastal wildlife and the coast path is a great place to start exploring them.

The array of life here is astounding. Choughs, kittiwakes, falcons, foxes and fulmars. Puffins, petrels and porpoises. Seals and sharks. Guillemots and gulls. Ospreys of Glaslyn valley or gannets in Grassholm. From tiny glittering dragonflies even up to the leviathan whale. If this chorus line of enigmatic animals is not reason enough to get onto the coastal path I urge you to consider the fragile presence of this cast of characters.

Over the last 80 years we’ve been campaigning to strengthen the powers of National Parks, been vigilant in monitoring the Parks against damaging developments and promoted National Parks for the enjoyment of everyone.

Campaign for National Parks

For over 80 years Campaign for National Parks has worked hard to protect and improve the National Parks of Wales and England, but wildlife across Wales continues to decline. Climate change, intensive agriculture, major development, invasive species and wildlife crime are contributing to that decline. This summer we will be publishing a new report exploring how we can make the Parks even more beautiful and teeming with wildlife.

Making a difference

The challenges seem overwhelming but whether you’re walking from village to pub or you’re on a dedicated outing to catch a glimpse of the shyest whale, there are things you can do to make a difference. Consider joining a beach clean, help document the species you see in spotter’s logs, use public transport where you can — and consider joining our fight to protect and improve the National Parks you love.

Curious Atlantic grey seal

Curious Atlantic grey seal

There are many reasons to spend time between Skomer and Whitesands Bay or Aberdyfi and Portmeirion, whether it’s the views, quirky seaside towns or the beautiful beaches; but remember none of these things would be as rich, lively and colourful if it weren’t for the tapestry of wildlife surrounding it.

Britain’s National Parks need our protection.

The Campaign for National Parks is the only national charity dedicated to defending and enhancing the National Parks of England and Wales. Click here to find out more.

Andrew Hall

Andrew Hall

This article was written by Andrew Hall to help promote the valuable work of the Campaign for National Parks. The Campaign for National Parks is the only national charity dedicated to defending and enhancing the National Parks of England and Wales. Copyright © Campaign for National Parks 2018. All rights reserved.

Andrew Hall is their Campaigns and Communications Officer.

Contact: andrew@cnp.org.uk

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