LLYN COED Y DINAS

An opportunistic creation of a nature reserve

Aproposal to use the then derelict Montgomery Canal as the route of the Welshpool bypass was fortunately overturned, and when work commenced in 1993 on an alternative across the Severn water-meadows a little to the east, vast amounts of gravel were required, gravel which fortunately could be excavated close-by, the resulting hole filling with water. An opportunity to create a wetland nature reserve was grasped by the Montgomery Wildlife Trust, aided by the Countryside Council for Wales, the

Environment Agency and the European Regional Development Fund, and more recently enhanced under a Heritage Lottery Fund programme.

The outstanding feature, which occupies well over half of the 20-acre site, is the lagoon with shallow margins, deeper pools and reedbeds, all fringed with woodlands and meadows, while two large hides provide comfortable viewing points. The close proximity of these to the car park means a short visit is easily accomplished. Whatever the season, whatever the time of day, Llyn Coed y Dinas always seems to have a special buzz about it. Bitterns have been recorded in winter, preferring the anonymity of the reedbeds; are they more regular than the sightings suggest? At least Water Rails readily announce their presence with distinctive calls. By contrast, Cormorants are immediately apparent, this being one their largest inland gathering locations in Wales. A winter roost of Starlings takes place in the reedbeds while in summer a boisterous colony of Black-headed Gulls dominates the scene. Unexpected visitors this far inland in Wales have included Great Black-backed, Little and Mediterranean Gulls, Kittiwake, Black Tern and Gannet.