Wildlife of Interest
Pingoes are geological features formed
immediately after deglaciation some 12,000 to 10,000
years ago. Re-freezing of permafrost groundwater led
to blister-like hills each containing a large lens
of ice. On warming, the ice melted, leaving depressions
surrounded by ramparts. The saucer-shaped depressions
filled with water leading to the development of basin-mire
communities.
The mires contain several species
of Sphagnum Mosses, with species such as insectivorous
Round-leaved Sundew, Cranberry, Bogbean and Marsh Cinquefoil.
The dry heathy pastures and wetter
hollows contain a mixture of species including Common
Valerian, Petty Whin, Dyers Greenweed, Devil's-bit
scabious, Heather, Cross-leaved Heath and Marsh pennywort.
Gorse and Downy Birch are common.
Birds include typical scrub species
such as Long-tailed Tit, Blackcap and Garden Warbler.
Willow Warbler and Chiffchaff are common in spring
and summer, Reed Bunting and Yellow hammer breed in
some years. Butterflies include Orange Tip, Small Pearl-bordered
Fritillary, Common Blue, Meadow Brown and Ringlet.
Directions
Situated about one third of a mile
south of the A44, about 3/4 of a mile west of Crossgates,
on the road signposted to Llanyre. This road is opposite
Taylor's Tractor garage on the A44. Heading south,
the reserve is situated on the left hand side of the
road, before Griffiths garage. A track to the left
is marked to Abercamlo farm, and a reserve sign and
stile entrance can be found a few metres along this
track.
Please do not obstruct the track when parking. |
Status
Access to the reserve is kindly granted by the owners
of the site, Mr & Mrs Wilson of Abercamlo Farm. The
agreement covers 4.9 ha (12 acres).
A trail around the reserve is marked
by white-topped posts.
Wellingtons are advisable most of
the year! |
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