LLANDRINDOD LAKE
Warblers, wildfowl and woodland at this compact site
Llandrindod Lake and its surrounding woodlands became a Local Nature Reserve in 2010. Set on the edge of the town, it attracts many local people for walking and to feed the wildfowl. It is well known for its spring gathering of Goosanders, many of which have also taken to eating bread. The lakeside vegetation has been much improved in recent years and the new small reedbeds quickly attracted Reed Warbler, Sedge Warbler and Reed Bunting. The island is a relatively safe place for several pairs of Mute Swan and Canada Goose to nest, although Otters have become a regular visitor attracted by the lake’s fish, though they are not averse to the occasional helping of eggs or red meat. Great Crested Grebes and Tufted Ducks attempt to breed most years and there are several pairs of Coots and Moorhens. In winter, Water Rails may be seen and there is a roost of Reed Buntings. The occasional tern passes through in spring or autumn and the odd wader record has included Spotted Redshank and Purple Sandpiper. Kingfisher sightings are regular in autumn and winter, and there have been several records of Osprey, including one watched from the lakeside café catching a large carp. Local rarities have included Bittern, Cetti’s Warbler, Smew and Great Northern Diver, and the county’s only ever Slavonian Grebe. The ungrazed mature oak woodlands are fantastic, with Redstart, Wood Warbler and Pied Flycatcher. Tree Pipit, Garden Warbler, Whitethroat and Linnet may be seen in the open areas at the top of the woods, towards the golf course.