Search Results

The actions that are suggested on this website are our road map to this; our Nature Recovery Action Plan. Nature Recovery Action Plan An assessment of the state of nature in NPT is the first step towards achieving a sustainable, healthy environment, which will provide all of us and future generations of NPT with an inspiring place to live. The actions that are suggested on this website are our road map to this; our Nature Recovery Action Plan. Responsibility for these actions lie with all of us and as such, we have not sought to assign actions to particular organisations or groups. Instead, it is our hope that this document will provide the guidance and inspiration for anybody, or any group or organisation, to undertake the actions that are within their capability to deliver. The Secretariat of NPT LNP (NPT Council) are providing a facilitation role to support, collate and monitor work towards these actions. If you would like to discuss your potential involvement in delivery of these actions, please get in touch with NPT LNP . Actions for the recovery of all habitats in NPT The following actions apply to all habitats across NPT and are listed here to avoid repetition. For specific habitat actions, please click here . Planning Policy Conserve and enhance biodiversity through the planning process Tree Planting Prevent inappropriate tree planting in the county e.g. on important grassland habitats. Encourage natural regeneration in place of tree planting where possible Invasive non-native species Prevent the encroachment of INNS on important habitats in NPT Think before you fly Raise awareness of the dangers of flying drones to nesting birds and contact training companies to encourage the inclusion of species disturbance in their training for those who fly drones professionally Illegal off-roading Report damage to nature sites from illegal off-roading to the police Artificial Light at Night (ALAN) Investigate where ALAN is an issue in the county and determine where improvements could be made Nature Networks Improve the condition, connectivity and resilience of protected sites. Education and engagement Deliver education and engagement activities across all habitats to increase understanding and awareness of their importance for nature and for tackling the nature emergency Recording Continue to record species in NPT and submit to SEWBReC 30x30 Increase the amount of protected or in ‘other effective area based conservation measures (OECMs)’ land in NPT, in line with the 30x30 target and the Biodiversity Deep Dive recommendations. Recognition of Greenwashing Raise awareness of greenwashing and help people to recognise if a project is truly of benefit to nature. Actions for specific categories Click the links below to explore the actions for each category. Heathland and Moorland Read More Semi-natural Grassland Read More Wetland Habitats Read More Coastal Habitats Read More Marine Habitats Read More Inland Rock and Cliff Read More Urban Read More Freshwater Read More Woodland Read More Open Mosaic Habitats Read More Enclosed Farmland Read More Background In 2001 the NPT Biodiversity Forum (now known as the NPT Local Nature Partnership) launched its Biodiversity Action Plan for 2001-2005, which contained details and action plans for 80 species and 15 habitats. In common with most of the Local Biodiversity Action Plans produced in Wales and the rest of the UK at that time, few targets were met and in the decades that have followed, regional and national biodiversity in general has not fared well. In fact, for many important wildlife populations and their habitats, there have been significant losses. Yet, NPT still retains a variety of priority habitats, including 17 Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) and the county as a whole contains a significant number of Section 7 species and other priority species of local and national value. These precious, dwindling resources deserve our attention and in order to address this there has been a step change in wildlife recording in NPT in the last 20 years. This has helped us to build a large database of habitats and species and that, in turn, has allowed us to understand the biodiversity gains and losses in NPT. At this time, we need to understand how well or how badly nature is coping in NPT so we can protect the natural environment, preserve our wild places and make plans for the future. An assessment of the state of nature in NPT is the first step towards achieving a sustainable, healthy environment, which will provide all of us and future generations of NPT with an inspiring place to live. The actions that are suggested in this document are our road map to this; our Nature Recovery Action Plan.

This site outlines how we can all take action for nature in NPT. NPT LNP members work hard to help nature recover but it doesn't have to stop there. Nature conservation begins at home and there are steps we can all take, wherever or whoever we are, to help preserve the natural heritage of NPT. How can you help? This site outlines how we can all take action for nature in NPT. NPT Local Nature Partnership members work hard to help nature recover in NPT but it doesn't have to stop there. Nature conservation begins at home and there are steps we can all take, wherever or whoever we are, to help preserve the natural heritage of NPT. In addition to the habitat actions, we have suggested actions here that we, as individuals, could take to help improve the State of Nature in NPT. Take a look at the action plans and see what you could do to help. If you'd like any further information or have any questions about any of the actions, get in touch . Join the Local Nature Partnership Anyone is welcome to join the NPT Local Nature Partnership to become part of our network working to help nature to recover in NPT. There are two options: Join NPT for Nature for community action for nature ideas, training and informal meetings where you can ask your nature questions and share your experiences. Join the full LNP to come along to our bimonthly meetings. These meetings are suitable for those who would like to contribute to the production of the Nature Recovery Action Plan. You are welcome to join both, in order to do so, simply subscribe to the relevant mailing list here . Volunteer with an LNP Partner Many of the partners of the NPT Local Nature Partnership offer volunteering opportunities. These can be varied, from peatbog surveys with the Lost Peatlands Project to balsam bashing with Afan Environment Volunteers. If you'd like to explore the volunteering activities currently available, click here. Be a voice for nature in your area If you have spotted somewhere in your local area that needs some care and attention, let someone know about it! Seen a mown area that could be managed as a meadow? Let NPT Council know by email and it could be added to the NPT Bee Friendly scheme. Let your local Councillors know that you are enjoying seeing nature in your area / would like to see more nature in your area. They are your voice in the local council and can help to improve management for nature in your area. Seen something damaging to nature in your local area? If it counts as a wildlife crime, report it to the police . If you are not sure, report it to the council . Species records for NPT are one of the most useful tools we have to assess how nature is faring in the county. Species recording is also a really enjoyable activity, getting you out exploring and observing nature when you have some free time. The best place to start is to watch this 'Introduction to Wildlife Recording ' webinar and do some species identification courses. Look out for upcoming courses on our calendar or you can do them in your own time online - one of our partners, the South East Wales Biodiversity Records Centre, has a great array of training videos to help you. Record Nature in NPT Garden for Wildlife Making space for wildlife in your garden is an amazing way of helping nature in NPT. We have some large urban areas in the county and every little helps when it comes to helping our urban wildlife. These are some of our top tips below: Manage part of your lawn as a meadow or a short-flowering lawn Install a pond Install bird and bat boxes Plant pollinator-friendly plants Avoid peat compost and chemicals Avoid planting species which are invasive in the wild Remove Invasive Non-Native species such as Himalayan Balsam and Bamboo Put in a 'Hedgehog Highway' between yours and neighbours gardens There is much more information and guidance on the Wildlife Trusts website . Alongside your garden, you can make space for nature on your house too: Install bat and/or bird boxes. Swifts are in trouble in Neath Port Talbot due to loss of nest sites, a row of swift boxes on your house could make a real difference in your local area. Aim for higher energy efficiency by installing double glazing, solar panels, air source heat pumps etc. You can even look at installing 'green infrastructure' on your home, such as rain garden planters, a green roof or a living wall. Find out more about how you could achieve this here. 'Green up' your house Inspire Children to Love Nature Getting children out into nature is great for their wellbeing and great for nature; the more people who care about it from a young age, the more people will try to protect it. We have a few different NPT-based resources that you could use to help you learn all about...: Meadows The Marsh Fritillary Butterfly Peatlands Sand Snails Pollinators You can find these on our 'Resources for Educators' page . There are a few 'quick fixes for nature' that people often want to dive into to try and help nature, without realising that some of these can be very damaging in the wrong context. Learn more about these before taking action to ensure that your hard work will have the desired effect! Honeybee hives - honeybee hives can put a huge amount of pressure on wild bees through competition for food and disease. They should only be installed for food production with associated habitat creation and never as part of a nature conservation project. Read more about this here. Tree planting - tree planting can be very beneficial in the right place, but in the wrong place it could be very damaging to nature. For example, planting on meadows could lead to the loss of the meadow. Always look to plant the right tree in the right place . 'Wildflower' mixes - if you want to create a wildflower meadow, you should be very cautious with wildflower mixes that you can pick up in supermarkets. These are often non-native mixes with little benefit to native biodiversity. Instead you should look to create a meadow through management and if seeding is required, source native, local provenance seeds. Find out more here . Be 'in the know' about nature Volunteer Opportunities in NPT Below are some of the current volunteer opportunities in NPT - if you like the sound of one, click the link to find out more. Afan Environment Volunteers Work days on 1st Wednesday of the month in the Afan Valley, including habitat management and wildlife surveys. Learn more. Bryncoch Environment Group Nature activities in the locality of Bryncoch, including toad patrols and litter picks. Learn more. Crymlyn Burrows Rare plant monitoring, beach cleans, invasive species control. Keep an eye out for upcoming events here . Learn more. Friends of Craig Gwladus Volunteer work parties and events at Craig Gwladus Country Park. Learn more. Friends of the Earth NPT A small friendly local group who campaign on issues which affect the environment in NPT Learn more. Upland Water Vole Project 2025-2028 Help to find water voles in the uplands of Glamorgan. Learn more. South Wales Miners Museum Help required to help visitors discover the nature of Afan Forest Park. Contact Jeff Lewis-Jones. Learn more. Afan Angling and Conservation Club Management of the River Afan, including works to remove barriers to fish migration. Learn more. Bryn Residents Action Group (BRAG) Work parties in and around the village of Bryn, including Bryn Tip LNR. Learn more. Coed Cadw Woodland management activities at Woodland Trust woodlands in the county. Learn more. Friends of Gnoll Country Park Volunteer work parties and events at Gnoll Country Park. Learn more. Glamorgan Bat Group Bat surveys and research, affiliated with Bat Conservation Trust. Learn more. NPT Wildlife A place to find out about wildlife and nature in Neath Port Talbot. Learn more. Ty Banc Canal Group Volunteering and events on the Neath Canal, including biodiversity sessions. Learn more. Buglife Natur am Byth Buglife Cymru is working with partners and communities across Swansea Bay to undertake timely and specific conservation interventions for 13 rare species identified as being at risk of local, and regional extinction. Learn more. Butterfly Conservation Marsh Fritillary surveys and habitat management in locality of the Dulais valley. Learn more. Coed Lleol Workshops and volunteering at sites across NPT Learn more. Friends of Jersey Park Volunteer work parties and events at Jersey Park. Learn more. Gower Ornithological Society Bird-focussed walks, talks and surveys in Swansea and NPT. Learn more. Lost Peatlands Wildlife surveys, assisting with conservation tasks and supporting at events. Learn more. Working with Nature NPT Nature activities and volunteering across NPT. Learn more.

This site is the place to find out information about the Neath Port Talbot (NPT) Local Nature Partnership, the state of nature in NPT and our Nature Recovery Action Plan (NRAP). Conserving, protecting and enhancing the nature of Neath Port Talbot in South Wales Read a pdf of the State of Nature of NPT NPT Local Nature Partnership Conserving, protecting and enhancing the nature of Neath Port Talbot We achieve our aims by creating partnerships between people that protect and care for nature in NPT, gathering information on the conservation of species and habitats in NPT, supporting the development of projects that are contributing to the aims of the Partnership, developing new projects to address local priorities and providing an advisory function on the subject of the state of nature and nature recovery in NPT. Read more THE STATE OF NATURE IN NPT An assessment of the State of Nature of our county has revealed that nature in NPT is in trouble and at risk from threats such as climate change and development. Urgent actions are required to improve the resilience of NPT’s biodiversity, in particular the coastal, heathland and moorland and semi-natural grassland habitats. Read More HOW CAN YOU HELP? Nature conservation begins at home and there are steps we can all take, wherever or whoever we are, to help preserve the natural heritage of NPT. Read More Our Nature Recovery Action Plan An assessment of the state of nature in NPT is the first step towards achieving a sustainable, healthy environment, which will provide all of us and future generations of NPT with an inspiring place to live. The actions that are suggested on this website are our road map to this; our Nature Recovery Action Plan. Read More NPT nature in numbers 21 Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) 950 Hectares of protected land 70 Section 7 Species 21 UK Red Listed breeding birds Follow us Upcoming Events Sun 07 Dec The Christmas Shiver / Digwyddiad Nadoligaidd i Deuluoedd / Aberavon Beach SA12, UK RSVP 07 Dec 2025, 11:00 – 16:00 Aberavon Beach SA12, UK Join Beach Academy and the NPT Local Nature Partnership for a day of festive family fun at Aberavon Beach! Dewch i fwynhau hwyl yr ŵyl gyda’n diwrnod hwyl i deuluoedd llawn gweithgareddau’r gaeaf! Wed 14 Jan Form and Function of Feathers and Moult - a Gower Ornithological Society event / See GOS website RSVP 14 Jan 2026, 19:10 – 21:00 See GOS website Mark Grantham, Licensing and Engagement Officer at the British Trust for Ornithology will talk to us about the form and function of feathers and moult. Wed 11 Mar To Antarctica and back with Arctic Terns - a Gower Ornithological Society event / See GOS website RSVP 11 Mar 2026, 19:10 – 21:00 See GOS website Dr Chris Redfern will talk to us about Arctic terns. Arctic terns are renowned for the global scale of their migration. The routes taken by individuals can be determined using small electronic ‘geolocators’ attached to a leg ring. These devices have been fitted to Arctic terns ... Wed 15 Apr Cudyll Cymru – a new dawn for monitoring raptors in Wales - a Gower Ornithological Society event / See GOS website RSVP 15 Apr 2026, 19:10 – 21:00 See GOS website Charlotte will talk to us about Cudyll Cymru, BTO’s Welsh Raptor Monitoring Project. Her role for the last couple of years has been to develop and co-ordinate raptor population monitoring efforts and obtain greater understanding of the populations of some of our commoner species in particular.

The coastal strip of NPT between Crymlyn Burrows and Morfa Dunes once supported a well-connected, biodiverse ecosystem with sand dunes, dune slacks and coastal fen. However, it has suffered huge losses in species-rich habitats in the last 100 years mainly as a result of industrial development. Coastal Habitats Sand dunes, saltmarsh, estuary, intertidal sand and mud, man-made structures The State of Nature in Coastal Habitats in Neath Port Talbot The coastal strip of NPT between Crymlyn Burrows and Morfa Dunes once supported a well-connected, biodiverse ecosystem with sand dunes, dune slacks and coastal fen. However, it has suffered huge losses in species-rich habitats in the last 100 years mainly as a result of industrial development. Unfortunately, much of what remains is also in a perilous position with an uncertain future, still threatened by development. Consequently, the unique wildlife communities and the dynamic mobile sand dune structures which have managed to survive remain vulnerable. Recent downward trends in the movements of wintering Sanderling (and other waders) on Crymlyn Burrows are also of concern. Several factors have contributed to changes in the biodiversity and resilience of coastal ecosystems in NPT: (i) lack of recognition in the past of the importance of sites such as Crymlyn Burrows and Baglan Dunes, (ii) lack of proper management of habitats containing species of high conservation value and (iii) no regulation of recreational activities in sensitive areas such as wader roosting sites in intertidal zones. In addition, there are a number of invasive non-native species that are established on Crymlyn Burrows, the most significant of which are Japanese Rose, Sea Buckthorn, a number of Cotoneaster species, Canadian Golden Rod, Michaelmas Daisy and Holm Oak. In view of all this the state of nature and resilience of coastal ecosystems in Neath Port Talbot has been assessed as poor. OVERVIEW Coastal ecosystems provide habitats for a third of NPT’s priority species and they represent one of the most important resources of biodiversity in the county. Important features include the partially fixed mobile dune systems on Crymlyn Burrows, Baglan and Morfa dunes. Species found here, such as Frosted Orache, Prickly Saltwort, Sea Stock, Sea Holly, Sea Bindweed, Sea Spurge and Ray’s Knotgrass depend on the availability of mobile sand environments and are restricted to these habitats. Also notable is a small population of Dotted Sedge, a rare and declining species, which occurs on Baglan Dunes in its only known site in Glamorgan. Unfortunately, Alder and Willow encroachment is currently threatening this population. Dune slacks contribute a large amount to the biodiversity of coastal ecosystems and were widespread in NPT’s dune systems at the end of the 19th Century. Even 40 years ago they were a significant feature of Crymlyn Burrows and Baglan Dunes. At this time Fen Orchid, Early Marsh-orchid, Marsh Helleborine and Adder’s Tongue were seen regularly on Crymlyn Burrows. However, species-rich dune slacks have all but disappeared in NPT, largely as a result of successional changes and neglect, and most of these species have become extremely rare in the county. A small area of dune slack with a large population of Marsh Helleborine survives on Baglan Dunes but it is also threatened by willow scrub succession. Until recently, intertidal areas on Crymlyn Burrows have provided a feeding and roosting site for nationally important numbers of wintering Sanderling and Ringed Plover. Unfortunately, the increasing use of these beaches for dog walking is now influencing the movements and behaviour of these birds and they appear to have deserted their favoured roosting sites. Several notable insects are found in coastal habitats in NPT including a number of butterflies such as Grayling, Wall Brown, Dingy Skipper, Dark Green Fritillary, Small Blue and Brown Argus. Other significant species include Shrill Carder-bee, Long-horned Bee and Black Oil-beetle. The strandline beetle, Nebria complanata was recorded regularly on Crymlyn Burrows in the past but has not been seen there recently. Salt marshes are a valuable component of coastal biodiversity. In NPT, this habitat is only extensive in the vicinity of the River Neath estuary where diverse communities containing Sea Wormwood, Sea Heath, Sea Lavender and Golden Samphire are found. The long tidal reach of the River Neath is also responsible for a substantial area of sea washed saltings between Neath town and Baglan Bay. During the highest tides, the large grazing marsh that occurs between Neath and Aberdulais is inundated with brackish water which influences the diversity and composition of this impressive and unique habitat. Actions for the recovery of Coastal Habitats in NPT Responsibility for these actions lie with all of us and as such, we have not sought to assign actions to particular organisations or groups. Instead, it is our hope that this document will provide the guidance and inspiration for anybody, or any group or organisation, to undertake the actions that are within their capability to deliver. The Secretariat of NPT LNP (NPT Council) are providing a facilitation role to support, collate and monitor work towards these actions. If you would like to discuss your potential involvement in delivery of these actions, please get in touch with biodiversity@npt.gov.uk . Management Active management of sand dune habitats is required, particularly the maintenance of mobile sand dune systems and the creation and maintenance of dune slacks Reducing disturbance to breeding and/or overwintering birds Breeding and/or overwintering populations of sanderlings and lapwings have both been declining as a result of disturbance from visitors. Work to protect these birds at Baglan and Crymlyn Burrows needs to be undertaken. Re-introduction of important plant species Re-introduce populations of species such as the Fen Orchid to sites where appropriate Invasive species removal Invasive species continue to threaten the condition of coastal habitats in NPT e.g. Japanese Rose. Undertake action to remove these species where possible Crymlyn Burrows Warden Ensure the continuation of the officer role for Crymlyn Burrows based at Swansea University Saltmarsh Identify opportunities for restoration of salt marsh along the River Neath, for example, through grazing projects Fungi on the Coast Undertake fungi surveys to increase our understanding of the fungal assemblages in the coastal zone Rare species monitoring Monitoring of rare plants along the coast is required to ensure populations are not declining e.g. Dune Wormwood and Dotted Sedge Rare plant species Promote the survival of important plant species through specific management e.g. removing the successional willow scrub which is threatening the Dotted Sedge (at Baglan Burrows). Connectivity for coastal habitats Work with partners to increase connectivity between coastal habitats e.g. creating wildflower habitat along Aberavon seafront SANDERLING Sanderling are small wading birds that breed in coastal tundra in the High Arctic. In winter they migrate southwards and significant numbers of them spend the winter in Britain, particularly where there are coastal beaches with long sandy shore lines. They rely on the availability of coastlines where they roost and feed on crustaceans, molluscs and marine worms. Recently, wintering numbers of sanderling have declined in the UK where this species is now amber-listed. Nationally important numbers have occurred in Swansea Bay between late summer and spring and they have been a notable feature of undisturbed sections of Crymlyn Burrows until recently. Unfortunately uncontrolled and sustained disturbance of winter populations are having a catastrophic effect on roosting and feeding flocks in NPT. SEA STOCK Sea Stock is one of a small number of Mediterranean plants that are found in Wales and has been known from coastal sand dunes in NPT for about 150 years. It is a nationally rare, Section 7 species and a European endemic that is growing at its global northern limit in the coastal sand dunes of NPT. It is found in mobile sand communities and is restricted to and specifically requires this specialised habitat in our area. For reasons that are not understood properly, population sizes of this attractive plant have varied greatly over the decades. Burial in sand after storm events and grazing by rabbits may play a part in this. The enormous population of Sea Stock that occurred on Crymlyn Burrows in the 1980s has dwindled to a handful of individuals in recent years. Larger populations are currently known from the remnant dune systems between Baglan and Morfa Tip. SMALL BLUE This is the smallest UK butterfly but can be seen in numbers where it occurs. The upper wing is a dusky colour with a hint of blue and the underwing is a very light brown-blue with obvious black spots, no orange as in the Common Blue. They rely solely on Kidney Vetch for their caterpillar food plant. Small Blues can be found all along the NPT coastal belt and at some inland sites, particularly where there is an abundance of Kidney Vetch. Where to explore coastal habitats in NPT Publicly accessible sites where you can see coastal habitats in NPT Coastal Projects in NPT CRYMLYN BURROWS SSSI A new management plan for Crymlyn Burrows has recently been put in place, to be implemented by the Swansea University Biodiversity Officer and NRW. The main aims of the plan will be to improve the condition of habitats there by removing or controlling invasive non-native species, dune slack scraping and the reintroduction of priority species such as Dune Wormwood and Sea Stock. morfa tip The creation of a new sand dune ecosystem on Morfa Tip is helping to increase the extent and connectivity of sand dune habitats, which have undergone catastrophic losses in the region over the last 100 years. The site is monitored annually. dynamic dunescapes 21 hectares of sand dune will be restored or recreated across NPT and Swansea. This project is also increasing public engagement with sand dune habitats in the county. whitford point Monitoring of species including lapwing, invasive species and visitor activity. Management of invasive non-native species and scrub clearance sanderling disturbance PREVENTION Disturbance of Sanderling and other waders at Crymlyn Burrows by dog walkers is currently under discussion to determine the best course of action to protect these feeding and roosting flocks. CASE STUDY MANAGEMENT OF CRYMLYN BURROWS SSSI When Swansea University developed its Bay Campus on brownfield land to the east of the city, it also took on responsibility for the neighbouring Crymlyn Burrows SSSI. This is one of the last undeveloped areas of Swansea Bay, designated for its diverse assemblage of sand dune and saltmarsh flora and invertebrates, among them some very rare species, including Fen Orchid, Field Wormwood and Strandline Beetle. Although undeveloped, the site faces numerous issues, not least the presence of invasive species and lack of grazing and historical management. While Japanese Rose is the most widespread and problematic of the invasive species found, there are over 50 non-native plants recorded in the dunes, with Sea Buckthorn, Holm Oak, Cotoneaster, Early Goldenrod, Michaelmas Daisy and Japanese Knotweed all having an impact (and the potential to spread much more widely). Although the site has always been used by local dog walkers, this has increased in recent years, and along with the 2500 students now living on campus, the risk of wildlife disturbance has increased significantly. Rabbits are the only grazing animals on the site and with no management prior to the opening of the campus, scrub and woodland has expanded significantly since designation, especially in the wetter areas. Fen Orchid has been lost to this succession and Strandline Beetles have not been recorded there since 1997. Management has initially focused on controlling invasive species, prioritising those that present the largest potential damage, where early management might prevent a larger future problem. Early attempts to hand dig Japanese Rose were unsuccessful, taking a lot of effort but with limited results – rhizomes can spread over a metre from the parent plant, and a small section left behind will regrow. Small (<2m), isolated patches of rose are now prioritised for spraying before they get too large, while larger areas are being dug and buried in situ using an excavator. This not only reduces the amount of Japanese Rose, but also creates valuable areas of bare sand for colonisation by dune wildlife. Regrowth is searched for and dug out by hand. As well as removing invasive species, attempts have been made to reduce the spread of native woodland and scrub into the dune grassland, with volunteers cutting back young birch, willow, alder and gorse along the woodland edge, although at a relatively small scale. In 2020 this was greatly expanded thanks to the help of the National Heritage Lottery Fund Dynamic Dunescapes project, clearing 0.5ha of woodland in wet dune slacks where fen orchid was last found. Trees were removed (and chipped for biomass) before the accumulated soil and leaf litter was scraped off, removing stumps and creating bare sand that flooded seasonally. A further new slack is planned in an area currently covered by Japanese Rose and if successful, it is hoped that Fen Orchid can be reintroduced. Wardening and awareness raising (through walks, events and signage) are helping to reduce disturbance, and a zoning scheme for access with dogs is planned. The location and aspect of the beach means that large quantities of rubbish collect along the 1.5km of shore. Beach cleans are carried out regularly and remove over 100kg of waste every month. Thanks are due to all the volunteers from the university and wider community, to the Dynamic Dunescapes project, and to Buglife’s B-Lines project that has helped to pay for the Japanese Rose burial.

Enclosed Farmland only includes categories such as arable land, improved pasture, drystone walls and field boundaries, which provide habitats for 10% of NPT’s Priority Species and play a significant role in connectivity with other broad habitats such as Heathland and Moorland. Enclosed Farmland Arable land, improved grassland, drystone walls and boundaries The State of Nature in Enclosed Farmland in Neath Port Talbot Our knowledge of Enclosed Farmland in NPT is limited and more survey data is required to increase our understanding of this important habitat. At present, we are unable to make a reasonable assessment of the resilience and state of nature in this habitat category. OVERVIEW While enclosed areas of farmland might include a variety of biodiverse habitats such as Marshy and Mesotrophic Grasslands, those specific habitats are discussed elsewhere in this document under other broad habitat headings. In this document Enclosed Farmland only includes categories such as arable land, improved pasture, drystone walls and field boundaries, which provide habitats for 10% of NPT’s Priority Species and play a significant role in connectivity with other broad habitats such as Heathland and Moorland , Semi-improved Grassland and Woodland . In suitable places notable species such as Barn Owl, Linnet, Skylark, Brown Hare and Small Heath butterfly may be found in Enclosed Farmland but none of these are restricted to Enclosed Farmland in the county. Much of the Enclosed Farmland in NPT is dominated by low-diversity improved pasture while arable land is restricted largely to small areas between Margam and the Kenfig River in the southern sector of the county. There have been no detailed surveys of these habitats. Preliminary surveys suggest that arable fields support characteristic bryophyte communities but little is known about their arable weed flora. They provide important feeding opportunities for Linnet and Starling, and occasionally Stock Dove and Lapwing. Hedge boundaries within enclosed farmland are generally poor while dry stone walls, such as they still exist in reasonable condition near the upper enclosure line, provide breeding opportunities for Wheatear and habitats for Weasel, other small mammals, bryophytes and lichens. In recent decades Enclosed Farmland has provided an important habitat for Red Kite and Buzzard but there have been some significant decreases in wildlife in farmland in NPT in the last 50 years, notably the loss of Yellowhammer and large decreases in other birds associated with farmland, e.g. Starling and Linnet. However, the provision of nest boxes in farm buildings for Barn Owl has resulted in some success recently. Beyond this, we are limited in our knowledge of the state of nature of enclosed farmland in NPT since a large proportion has never been surveyed and we have few records for these habitats at present. Actions for the recovery of Enclosed Farmland habitats in NPT Responsibility for these actions lie with all of us and as such, we have not sought to assign actions to particular organisations or groups. Instead, it is our hope that this document will provide the guidance and inspiration for anybody, or any group or organisation, to undertake the actions that are within their capability to deliver. The Secretariat of NPT LNP (NPT Council) are providing a facilitation role to support, collate and monitor work towards these actions. If you would like to discuss your potential involvement in delivery of these actions, please get in touch with biodiversity@npt.gov.uk . Barn Owl Project Support the continuation of the barn owl nest box and monitoring project Arable Wildflower Recording Undertake arable weed surveys where possible to determine the importance of arable land in NPT Working with Farmers Engage with and support farmers and landowners undertaking action for nature as the LNP, for example, through the Nature Friendly Farming Network VOG, Bridgend and NPT Meadows Group Encourage membership amongst farmers and landowners Sustainable Farming Scheme Engage with the new sustainable farming scheme and provide support where possible for nature-related action Farmland species recording Increase recording on farmland, including for farmland birds, mammals and plants. BROWN HARE Brown Hare are found throughout NPT in both coastal and moorland habitats and although they are not seriously threatened in the county, their numbers have decreased as a result of habitat loss, persecution and hunting. They are encountered most often on coastal dunes but their numbers there have decreased significantly in the last 50 years, particularly on Crymlyn Burrows where they were frequently encountered in past decades. However, their occurrence in the new and developing dune system on Morfa Tip is encouraging. Loss of habitat in upland areas, as a result of agricultural and forestry developments, has also resulted in decreases in hare populations. SKYLARK The Skylark is still a common breeding resident in NPT in suitable habitats such as sand dunes, salt marsh and rough pasture in the uplands. Significant numbers are also found in the reclaimed grassland that has developed on the Selar opencast site above Cwmgwrach. However, in many parts of the county they have been adversely affected by agricultural improvements and conifer afforestation. In winter, the upland populations move to lowland areas such as Crymlyn Burrows where local birds are often joined by migrants on passage, sometimes swelling flock numbers to more than 200 along the coast. CASE STUDY NPT BARN OWL PROJECT Although the Barn Owl is listed of “Least Concern” with respect to risk of extinction by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), there has been a decline in the number of this flagship farmland bird across the breadth of Wales and Europe as a whole. There are a number of reasons for this decline but loss of suitable roosting and nesting sites caused by the replacement of old agricultural barns with modern equivalents is one. Fortunately, Barn Owls readily accept man-made nest-boxes which, if positioned adjacent to suitable feeding habitat, can often lead to a successful breeding and fledging program. In 2009, the NPT LNP (the NPT Biodiversity Forum at that time) commissioned two surveys by professional Ecologists – the Barn Owl Habitat Survey and Breeding Barn Owl Survey. These demonstrated a breeding population of around 10 pairs but with scope for enhancing the population through the placement of nest-boxes. A local Ornithologist was then commissioned to erect these boxes at sites identified by the surveys. By 2015, 24 boxes had been erected but only two of these were successful to the fledgling stage. Since then, other suitable nest-box sites have been identified by members of the LNP, which has also provided funding for materials to build more nest-boxes. There are now 46 boxes in our catchment area and in 2021, 10 of these were successful to fledgling stage with a total of 34 chicks ringed. The current work of the group includes building and erecting nest-boxes, maintenance and cleaning of boxes, discussing and advising landowners on barn owl conservation, monitoring nesting success and ringing fledglings. Monitoring and ringing is carried out under licence as the Barn Owl is protected under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Freshwater ecosystems are well represented in NPT and many of the specific habitats in this category support a large diversity of plants and animals. This includes important aquatic and marshland communities which contribute to the overall connectivity of marsh, fen and swamp in the county. Freshwater Lakes, reservoirs and ponds, rivers and streams, canals The State of Nature in Freshwater in Neath Port Talbot Freshwater ecosystems are well represented in NPT and many of the specific habitats in this category support a large diversity of plants and animals. This includes important aquatic and marshland communities which contribute to the overall connectivity of marsh, fen and swamp in the county. Many are in good or reasonable condition but there are local concerns with mine water pollution, eutrophication and the occurrence of invasive non-native species. While river water quality has undoubtedly improved in recent decades, and this has benefitted populations of salmonid fish and their predators (e.g. Otter), more improvements in water quality are required. The resilience of and state of nature in freshwater ecosystems in NPT has been assessed as fair . OVERVIEW Freshwater ecosystems provide habitats for a fifth of NPT’s priority species, many of which are associated specifically with this habitat. Specific habitats in this category include rivers and tributaries, canals, lakes, reservoirs, reens and dykes, and numerous ponds and pools scattered throughout the county. Key priority species include Otter, Water Vole, Great Crested Grebe, Dipper, Spotted Flycatcher, Grass Snake, Great Crested Newt, Atlantic Salmon, Brown and Sea Trout, Fen Raft Spider, Flowering Rush, Quillwort, Water Lobelia, Floating Bur-reed and Whorled Water-millfoil. Among the larger freshwater water bodies in NPT, Llyn Fach is unique in being the only significant oligotrophic tarn in Glamorgan. The occurrence here of an aquatic community that includes Water Lobelia, Quillwort and Floating Bur-reed gives the site a very distinctive montane feel. In addition, the recent discovery of a population of Water vole, hitherto believed to be extinct in the county, has confirmed the importance of this site for the county’s biodiversity. Other large lakes and reservoirs in NPT include Eglwys Nunydd Reservoir, which is an important site for wintering wildfowl and a breeding habitat for Great Crested Grebe. The Neath, Swansea and Tennant Canals support diverse aquatic and emergent vegetation and provide crucial connectivity between a number of fen, swamp and marsh habitats in the county (e.g. Crymlyn Bog, Pant y Sais Fen). Notable plants include Flowering Rush, Greater Spearwort, Marsh Cinquefoil and Mare’s-tail which are otherwise scarce in NPT. All the common damselflies and dragonflies are found here as well as other more notable species such as the Variable Damselfly and Beautiful Demoiselle. The occurrence of Fen Raft Spider at its only site in Wales on the Tennant Canal is particularly significant. The reens on Margam Moors contain a number of scarce aquatic plants such as Arrow-head and Frogbit. The River Afan and River Neath, and their tributaries, are notable for their fish populations particularly salmonids such as Atlantic Salmon, Brown Trout and Sea Trout but also for populations of European Bullhead and European Eel. Common Sandpiper, Dipper and Spotted Flycatcher are among a number of characteristic bird species associated with these rivers and Otter have made a welcome comeback in recent decades. Meadow Saxifrage, a plant which has undergone a significant decrease in Wales is still frequent along the banks of the River Neath between Aberdulais and Glynneath. The waterbody status of the main watercourses in NPT have been recorded as Good/Excellent by the Water Framework Directive. However, there are still a number of local issues that are of concern on its rivers and canals, e.g. invasive non-native species, mine water pollution, sewerage discharge and other eutrophication problems. Actions for the recovery of Freshwater habitats in NPT Responsibility for these actions lie with all of us and as such, we have not sought to assign actions to particular organisations or groups. Instead, it is our hope that this document will provide the guidance and inspiration for anybody, or any group or organisation, to undertake the actions that are within their capability to deliver. The Secretariat of NPT LNP (NPT Council) are providing a facilitation role to support, collate and monitor work towards these actions. If you would like to discuss your potential involvement in delivery of these actions, please get in touch with biodiversity@npt.gov.uk . Pond surveys Record ponds across the county, determining information on condition where possible e.g. through water quality testing. This will help to determine where management, protection and connectivity improvements may be required. Pond Restoration Restore degraded ponds where necessary Pond Creation Create ponds in appropriate locations, particularly where it will increase connectivity between water bodies. River Restoration Restoration of rivers / streams where possible Combined Sewer Outputs Work with responsible agencies to CSO overflow pollution where possible across the county. Natural Flood Management Undertake natural flood management projects in high flood risk areas where appropriate Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems Encourage the use of SUDS such as swales and rain gardens, particularly in new developments and urban centres to create habitat, reduce pollution and alleviate flood risk Mine Water Pollution Reduce mine water pollution across the county OTTER Increases in the national Otter population in recent decades are viewed by most people as a welcome indicator of the renewed natural health and vigour of our riparian habitats. The widespread occurrence of Otter spraint on riverside rocks and other stone structures reveal the widespread occurrence of Otter on NPT's rivers and canals. Nevertheless, there is some evidence that numbers have decreased in recent years and there are indications of occasional persecution. SALMON All the major river systems in NPT have Salmon in them. It is becoming more obvious that Salmon are in crisis throughout the UK as well as Wales with suggested figures of a decline of 70% in 25 years (Atlantic Salmon Trust). Read more in the case study below. The video above shows a salmon migrating through the Green Park Weir fish pass in 2015. DIPPER Dippers occur on fast-flowing, unpolluted streams and are seen regularly on most river catchments in the county all year round. In 2019 there were a minimum of 12 confirmed breeding locations in NPT. Current studies of this amber-listed species include a ringing program being conducted on the River Afan and its tributaries, aimed at increasing our knowledge of local breeding success and survival rates over time. Where to explore freshwater habitats in NPT Publicly accessible sites where you can see freshwater habitats in NPT Freshwater Projects in NPT RECONNECTING OUR RIVER- THE RIVER AFAN LNP members undertake valuable works to enhance the health of the river ecosystem; removing barriers to fish migration through the Re-connecting our Rivers project, pollution reduction projects, invasive non-native species control natural flood management A number of natural flood management projects are taking place across the county, enhancing and creating habitat whilst preventing flood risk. DIPPER NEST BOX MONITORING Funding from the LNP enabled nest box creation and erection and monitoring has begun of the dipper population on the River Afan. otter road death hotspots Monitoring of otter road death hotspots is pinpointing areas where action should be taken to mitigate for this danger where possible. POND RESTORATION Various pond restoration projects are taking place across the county, for example, at Jersey Park and at The Gnoll Country Park. water framework directive Regular monitoring of the health of our rivers takes place via the Water Framework Directive. CASE STUDY THE ATLANTIC SALMON IN NPT The Atlantic Salmon is an anadromous fish with a lifespan up to 13 years. It is becoming more obvious that Salmon are in crisis throughout the UK as well as Wales with suggested figures of a decline of 70% in 25 years (Atlantic Salmon Trust). The River Afan and River Neath within NPT are not considered principle Salmon rivers and as such there is less data available to confirm a decline. However the data that is available from anglers and Natural Resources Wales suggests that the local figures support the crisis theory. The first recorded rod-caught Salmon for more than a hundred years on the River Afan was in 1988. There has been modest increases since then with last season’s figures (2021) of 19 Salmon. All were returned unharmed. The water quality in the river is in no doubt improved and better now than it has been for decades and therefore should encourage these fish to spawn if they make it back from their feeding grounds and migration. Although it would appear that the River Afan is holding its own as a small river, with so few fish returning it is difficult to be optimistic. The River Neath Salmon figures over the last 11 years show a significant decrease where in 2011 recorded 77 Salmon caught decreasing to 16 in 2020. Survival of smolts and post-smolts seems to be the issue for all our rivers in South Wales. Rate of survival to returning adults have dropped from 15% in the 80’s to just 3% in more recent times. There is no doubt that the demise of the Salmon is down to a number of factors, from pressure in the marine environment to their breeding efficiency in fresh water. Losses can be quite high ‘in-river’ due to the combination of man-made barriers and predation by birds/ Otters. For this reason future focus is more and more about downstream migration of smolts and their progress over the numerous weirs. For the present, attempts to reduce the decline in population, by various legislation and water catchment initiatives is in place but the fact is that these magnificent creatures are in real danger of becoming just another statistic. Afan Valley Angling and Conservation Club

The extent and connectivity of Inland Rock and Cliff in NPT has hardly changed for hundreds of years. However, there has been some deterioration in the condition of Craig y Llyn in recent decades. Inland Rock and Cliff Exposed crags, scree The State of Nature in Inland Rock and Cliff in Neath Port Talbot The extent and connectivity of Inland Rock and Cliff in NPT has hardly changed for hundreds of years. However, there has been some deterioration in the condition of Craig y Llyn in recent decades. Invasion of scree and cliff by Sitka Spruce regenerating from seed that has rained in from surrounding plantations has become a significant problem and traffic pollution originating from the nearby Rhigos Mountain Road may also be a problem. The construction of a zipline above nearby Llyn Fawr is a reminder that many upland cliff habitats in South Wales are under pressure from tourist developments. Overall, we have assessed the resilience and state of nature in Inland Rock and Cliff in Neath Port Talbot as fair. OVERVIEW The north-facing sandstone cliffs of Craig y Llyn above Llyn Fach are the most important example of this type of habitat in Glamorgan and although this habitat only supports a small proportion of NPT’s priority species, there is a community of northern boreal and arctic-montane plants here which has a unique place in the county. For example, species such as Cowberry, Crowberry, Lesser Meadow-rue, Stone Bramble, Fir Clubmoss, Wilson’s Filmy-fern, Oak Fern, Brittle Bladder-fern, Beech Fern, Parsley Fern, Mountain Male-fern, Black Rock-moss and Stiff Apple-moss are either only found here or are very uncommon elsewhere in NPT. Smaller north-facing outcrops such as those at Craig y Pant in the Neath Valley and above Cymmer in the upper Afan Valley also support interesting bryophyte assemblages with Hill Notchwort, Trunk Paw-wort and Neat Silk-moss and the only occurrence of Lanceolate Spleenwort in NPT. In the past these habitats have provided breeding grounds for Kestrel, Peregrine Falcon, Whinchat and Ring Ouzel, although the latter has not bred in the county for over 50 years. Actions for the recovery of Inland Rock and Cliff habitats in NPT Responsibility for these actions lie with all of us and as such, we have not sought to assign actions to particular organisations or groups. Instead, it is our hope that this document will provide the guidance and inspiration for anybody, or any group or organisation, to undertake the actions that are within their capability to deliver. The Secretariat of NPT LNP (NPT Council) are providing a facilitation role to support, collate and monitor work towards these actions. If you would like to discuss your potential involvement in delivery of these actions, please get in touch with biodiversity@npt.gov.uk . Remove invasive tree species Remove any conifers which have self-seeded onto the cliff features e.g. at Craig y Llyn SSSI Monitor breeding birds Monitor breeding birds on this habitat Monitor important plant species Monitor the important plant species (as detailed in the overview) that can be found in this habitat. ©Richard Pryce ©Vaughn Matthews FERNS The crags of Craig y Llyn are home to a number of fern species that are scarce or rare in south Wales and of conservation concern. One of them is Wilson’s Filmy-fern, a small plant with thin, translucent fronds that form a mat on shady, vertical rocks. This Atlantic species is confined to humid ravines and north-facing cliffs in south Wales and is only known from Craig y Llyn in NPT. That is also true of Mountain Male-fern, a northern montane species at the southern limit of its British range in Glamorgan. Other ferns worthy of note here are Oak Fern and Beech Fern. These two Boreo-temperate species make attractive displays in the hardy plant communities of Craig y Llyn and have few other locations in the county. KESTREL The Kestrel is now Red Listed in Wales following a widespread decline across the country. The reasons for this decline are thought to be related to increased mortality with juvenile birds unable to find sufficient insect food, predation by Goshawks and also poisoning by rodenticides. The Kestrel was once a fairly common breeding resident in NPT, its main habitat being rough grassland, where it preys on voles, and also coastal areas. For many years they bred in the roof of the Fords factory near Jersey Marine (now Bay Studios) and on some inland cliffs but the species has declined dramatically in recent years with few breeding records. CLUBMOSSES NPT has 3 species of clubmosses; Alpine, Fir and Stag‘s-horn. They are integral and iconic features of the county’s upland biodiversity. Contrary to their misleading name, they are not mosses at all but vascular plants which are related closely to ferns. In the past, when the high ground of NPT was dominated by moderately-grazed, unimproved moorland and dwarf-shrub heath, Fir and Stag’s-horn Clubmoss species would have been relatively widespread. Today, they are uncommon in the intensively grazed uplands of NPT. Fir Clubmoss is only found on north-facing sandstone ledges and scree and in banks of un-grazed dwarf-shrub heath in conifer plantations. Alpine and Stag’s-horn Clubmoss are confined to these banks of heather and bilberry in plantations. Alpine Clubmoss, which is our rarest clubmoss, occurs at its UK southern limit in NPT. All our clubmoss species are vulnerable and endangered. CASE STUDY CRAIG Y LLYN Craig y Llyn SSSI consists of two north-east-facing hollows that were cut by Pleistocene ice or snow into the edge of the Pennant Sandstone Plateau and also includes the lake below, Llyn Fach. Here, the high cliffs, ravines and flushes support many montane species such as Wilson's Filmy Fern, Fir Clubmoss, Oak-fern, Mountain Male-fern and a number of upland bryophytes which are otherwise uncommon in south Wales. Llyn Fach has a suite of uncommon aquatic species that are associated with upland oligotrophic lakes such as Water Lobelia, Quillwort and Floating Bur-reed. Many of these species are near or at their southern distribution limit in Britain in this site. Analysis of the pollen preserved in Ffos Cenglau has yielded data on the post-glacial sequence of woodland types in South Wales. Llyn Fach and its surrounds are managed by the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales (WTSWW) who organise surveys and monitoring of the lake and grassland habitats which inform management decisions. For example, survey rafts are used to monitor the population of Water Vole that has recently been discovered here and occasional, humane trapping is carried out to remove predatory American Mink. Other management practices include the introduction of cattle in summer for conservation grazing, scrub clearance and the removal of encroaching conifers (mostly Sitka Spruce) which are regenerating onsite. WTSWW is also working towards increasing the public understanding of the importance of the species at this reserve and reducing anti-social behaviour.

NPT is fortunate to have a number of important wetland sites which added together support a fifth of the county’s priority species. Specific habitats in this category include fen, swamp, and ombrotrophic mires (bogs). Wetland Fens, bogs, springs and seepages The State of Nature in Wetland in Neath Port Talbot Lowland fen habitats in NPT support diverse communities of plants and animals and are generally well connected to other lowland wetland systems. However, their condition is poor in places with evidence of eutrophication and pollution and also problems with successional scrub encroachment and invasive non-native species, e.g. Rhododendron on Pant y Sais Fen and Sea Buckthorn in the marsh and fen habitats near Kenfig Marshalling Yards. Some upland wetland systems such as Gors Llwyn are in reasonable condition but the loss of other upland wetland habitats through neglect, afforestation, development and agricultural improvements has compromised their connectivity. Overall, wetland habitats in NPT are small, fragmented and not well connected. In view all this, the resilience of wetlands as a whole in NPT is viewed as significantly less than good and, consequently, their state of nature has been assessed as poor . OVERVIEW NPT is fortunate to have a number of important wetland sites which added together support a fifth of the county’s priority species. Specific habitats in this category include fen, swamp, and ombrotrophic mires (bogs). Fen habitats dominated by reeds and other tall graminoids are well represented in NPT with Crymlyn Bog (east of the Glan y Wern Canal) and Pant y Sais Fen being preeminent examples. Slender Cottongrass, a nationally rare Red Data Book species, is found at both sites along with a long list of other notables like Greater Spearwort, Least Bur-reed, Lesser Bulrush, Mares-tail, Marsh Cinquefoil, Mash Fern, Marsh Lousewort, Royal Fern, Saw-sedge and Yellow Loosestrife. Smaller areas of fen-like habitat occur in many places between Jersey Marine and Aberdulais which are connected by the Tennant Canal and large patches of Reed-dominated marshland also occur on and near the grazing marsh between Neath and Tonna and on Margam Moors. An interesting fragment of coastal fenland occurs in the vicinity of Kenfig Marshalling Yards, near Morfa. Cyperus Sedge, Round-headed Club-rush, Saw-sedge and Tubular Water-dropwort are found here, the latter at one of its few sites in South Wales. All these habitats are important for marshland birds such as Cetti’s Warbler, Grasshopper Warbler, Marsh Harrier, Reed Bunting, Reed Warbler, Sedge Warbler and Water Rail as well as reptiles such as Grass Snake and Common Lizard. Insects are well represented too and particularly damselflies (e.g. Variable Damselfly) and dragonflies (e.g. Hairy Dragonfly). The population of Fen Raft Spider on the Tennant Canal between Crymlyn Bog, Pant y Sais and Red Jacket clearly benefits from the connectivity between fen and aquatic habitats here. Large areas of ombrotrophic mire are uncommon in NPT, but parts of Gors Llwyn near Onllwyn have a raised bog structure. Tufted Sedge and Greater Tussock-sedge are conspicuous on this site, which also contains Marsh Lousewort, Marsh St John’s-wort and an interesting inland population of Marsh Helleborine. Swampy tall herb fen areas here and in ecologically connected habitats nearby have huge populations of Bogbean with Bottle-sedge, Water Horsetail and Yellow Loosestrife. Decades ago, in post-war years, Globe Flower also occurred on Gors Llwyn but it has not been seen in recent times. The lowland raised bog at Fforest Goch near Rhos is also notable for the range of wetland communities it contains, which includes a population of Bog Notchwort, a liverwort that is rare in South Wales. Smaller areas of flushed boggy ground are widespread in the moorland landscapes of the upper Dulais Valley and in the Gwrhyd area between Cwmllynfell and Rhyd-y-Fro where Greater Tussock-sedge, Many-stalked Spikerush, Marsh St John’s-wort and White Sedge are found. During the last 70 years, extensive areas of upland habitat on deep peat in NPT have been ploughed, drained and planted with conifers. This has contributed to substantial losses of wetland habitat in the county, which now only represent 1% of the county's land area. However, some fragments of wetland habitat survive within plantations and projects aimed at recovering other lost peatlands are in progress. Actions for the recovery of Wetland habitats in NPT Responsibility for these actions lie with all of us and as such, we have not sought to assign actions to particular organisations or groups. Instead, it is our hope that this document will provide the guidance and inspiration for anybody, or any group or organisation, to undertake the actions that are within their capability to deliver. The Secretariat of NPT LNP (NPT Council) are providing a facilitation role to support, collate and monitor work towards these actions. If you would like to discuss your potential involvement in delivery of these actions, please get in touch with biodiversity@npt.gov.uk . Peatland Restoration Opportunities to restore degraded peatlands should be pursued whenever possible Protect and Restore Protect and restore wetland habitat where possible. Fforest Goch Bog SSSI Appropriate vegetation management needs re-instating at this site as the bog is currently in unfavourable condition Water Vole Protection Protect the upland Water Vole populations from the threat of American Mink (c) Steve Dixon WATER VOLE Water Voles were not an uncommon feature of wetland and aquatic habitats in NPT 60 years ago, but they have undergone a catastrophic decline in recent decades. Loss of habitat and predation by American Mink have probably played important roles in this. However, a significant Water Vole population has been discovered recently in wetland areas inside upland conifer plantations in the county. Peat bog habitat restoration projects are now incorporating management for water voles and monitoring the populations here. The video above shows a Water Vole caught on camera at Llyn Fach by The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales. SPHAGNUM Sphagnum (also known as bog moss or peat moss) is a bryophyte genus which contains a number of species that are characteristic of wet areas including peatlands and flushes. The typical growth form of these important plants consist of branches, called fascicles, which are held in groups along the stem, and an active growing centre, called the capitulum, at the top. Sphagnum can absorb and hold many times its own dry weight in water and is the ecosystem engineer for peatland habitats. FEN RAFT SPIDER This is the UK's largest spider and one of the rarest. This striking species reaches up to 23mm in body size and has a distinctive pale stripe along its flanks. These ferocious predators, which are capable of catching and eating stickleback fish, are found at very few sites in the UK, including the Tennant Canal near Jersey Marine. They are usually seen in summer, characteristically basking on floating and emergent vegetation. In some years they occur in relatively large numbers. Where to explore wetland in NPT Publicly accessible sites where you can see wetland habitats in NPT Wetland Projects in NPT LOST PEATLANDS PROJECT A National Heritage Lottery Fund funded large-scale peatland restoration project in the uplands of NPT and RCT. The project is restoring habitat, inspire & empower local communities & visitors to discover & learn about their heritage. WETLAND MANAGEMENT Wetland management is taking place at various important sites across the county, for example, at Gors Llwyn SSSI, Red Jacket Fen and at Pant y Sais Fen. CASE STUDY LOST PEATLANDS PROJECT The ‘Lost Peatlands of South Wales’ project is delivered by the Lost Peatlands Partnership comprising NPT Council (Lead) , RCT Council , NRW , Swansea University and Coed Lleol (Small Woods) . The project is providing an exciting programme of environmental improvements and community activities between 2021 and 2025. Once referred to as the ‘Alps of Glamorgan’, the upland area between NPT and RCT in the South Wales Valleys was historically an open moorland landscape of boggy peatland. Today, commercial forestry plantations and renewable energy wind farms are a defining feature of this landscape, but large pockets of peat remain. Peat is invaluable in terms of water storage, carbon storage and as a wildlife habitat. The conservation of peatlands is a critical factor in climate change mitigation and the reversal of biodiversity losses. The main aim of the Lost Peatland Project is to restore and manage more than 490 hectares of this historic landscape and habitats, including heathland, grassland and native woodland. One particular focus will be the direct restoration of 256 hectares of previously afforested peat bogs and pools. Habitat improvements will encourage many local wildlife species currently in decline to thrive again. These include birds like the Skylark and Nightjar; invertebrates like the Dark Green Fritillary and Small Pearl Bordered Fritillary butterflies; and mammals, including the elusive Water Vole. Peat restoration works will be closely monitored and will inform important ongoing research by Swansea University to guide best practice restoration techniques and to understand impacts on biodiversity, water quality and CO2 emissions. Access to this remarkably wild landscape will also be made easier through improved, guided footpaths and interpretation. As part of the project, local people will also be able to experience, learn about and get involved with the heritage on their doorstep through a variety of free activities, events, schools outdoor learning programmes and volunteering opportunities. People will be able to gain new outdoor skills and knowledge via dedicated training programmes. Families and adults will also be able to join or be referred to the project’s health and wellbeing activity programmes.

The marine habitats of NPT are defined in this document as the inshore, subtidal and surface seawaters of Swansea Bay off the coast of NPT to a distance of 12 nautical miles. The seabed here consists of sandstones and mudstones overlain by sand, gravel and mud. Marine Habitats Inshore/ subtidal marine habitats The State of Nature in Marine Habitats in Neath Port Talbot At present we have insufficient data to give a robust assessment of the resilience and state of nature in the marine habitats of NPT. Attributes such as extent and connectivity can be assumed to be good. However, the 2018 Water Framework Directive interim assessment rated the overall and ecological status of our local coastal water to be moderate and it failed on chemical status. We conclude from this that the condition of our marine habitats is poor. Furthermore, issues such as pollution and invasive non-native species continue to threaten ecosystem resilience. At this point, we can only conclude that the state of nature in marine habitats in NPT is poor . OVERVIEW The marine habitats of NPT are defined in this document as the inshore, subtidal and surface seawaters of Swansea Bay off the coast of NPT to a distance of 12 nautical miles. The seabed here consists of sandstones and mudstones overlain by sand, gravel and mud. The main habitats enclosed are suitable for marine mammals, fish and invertebrates but there are no rocky subtidal areas. Specific and detailed knowledge of the biodiversity of these habitats is lacking but surveys undertaken in 2013 found 6 infaunal groups dominated by polychaete worms and bivalves. Sabellaria alveolata reefs are formed in the bay, some of which are on man-made structures such as groynes. At least 55 species of fish and 38 species of shellfish have been recorded in the bay. These include some of international importance such as European Eel, Allis Shad, Twaite Shad and Sea Lamprey. The area is also an important nursery for flatfish and ray, while Herring are known to spawn in several places around the bay. It is possible that Sand Eel spawn here also. The bay has a year-round presence of Harbour Porpoise with annual mother-calf sightings in late summer-autumn and near-shore foraging has been noted in several places. Common Dolphin are sighted occasionally in summer and mid-winter, perhaps a reflection of the range expansion of the Celtic Sea population which has occurred in the last 15 years, and Grey Seals have been sited occasionally. Large and significant numbers of Great Crested Grebes are counted in the bay each winter from Aberavon Beach and Crymlyn Burrows. The marine ecosystem provides habitats for 24 of NPT’s priority species. Actions for the recovery of Marine Habitats in NPT Responsibility for these actions lie with all of us and as such, we have not sought to assign actions to particular organisations or groups. Instead, it is our hope that this document will provide the guidance and inspiration for anybody, or any group or organisation, to undertake the actions that are within their capability to deliver. The Secretariat of NPT LNP (NPT Council) are providing a facilitation role to support, collate and monitor work towards these actions. If you would like to discuss your potential involvement in delivery of these actions, please get in touch with biodiversity@npt.gov.uk . River Pollution Work with partners to reduce pollution entering the marine environment via the rivers Evidence Building Most biological recording takes place in terrestrial habitats. Encourage and collate new records, for example, target marine fishing for biological records and encourage participation in national recording schemes such as The Great Eggcase Hunt. Issues such as litter and pollution should also be monitored Invasive non-native species management Investigate the possibilities of working with marine users to encourage correct biosecurity and ensure prevention actions are taken Motion for the Ocean Support relevant partners to declare a Motion for the Ocean for NPT © Jacob Bøtter HARBOUR PORPOISE Swansea Bay has year-round Harbour Porpoise presence, with annual mother-calf sightings in late summer-autumn. Regular near-shore foraging is also reported along the NPT Coastline. They are much smaller than native dolphin species and more difficult to spot. They do not often leave the water like dolphins but ‘breach’ with their back in a smooth arc. Porpoise have a very short beak making their head look blunt compared to a dolphin. HERRING Swansea Bay has several spawning sites for Herring. One of these is the sea defence area at the entrance of Port Talbot Dock. It is likely that the man-made structures provide and replicate the substrate required to allow gravel patches to form, creating the right conditions for a spawning site. Herring have different spawning points in the year; the Swansea Bay population spawns in February and March. Herring are not exploited commercially here. Due to their large numbers and fast reproductive cycle they are an important prey item within the marine ecosystem. They could be the reason for the high numbers of predators especially Great Crested Grebes we see in the winter. CASE STUDY GREAT CRESTED GREBE OVER-WINTERING SURVEYS The Great Crested Grebe is the largest and most familiar of the grebes that are found in the UK. Most people associate them with large freshwater lakes where breeding birds are sometimes seen displaying to each other in an elegant, courtship water dance. There are few breeding pairs in NPT but they occur regularly on Eglwys Nunydd Reservoir near Margam and the Borrow Pits ponds near Glynneath, where adult birds can be observed with chicks, sometimes carrying the young birds, characteristically, on their backs. Much larger numbers of these beautiful birds gather in winter feeding flocks in Swansea Bay where they often occur in 3 separate groups of birds spread across the bay from Blackpill (Swansea) to Aberavon (NPT). Two of these groups are usually located in NPT, one off Crymlyn Burrows and the other off Aberavon Beach. The numbers of wintering birds in these flocks has been counted at regular intervals for over 10 years by local enthusiasts (British Trust for Ornithology, Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) Counts) and it is clear from these records that the bay is a very important winter feeding site with >700 individuals counted in some months. Often, the greater proportion of the bay's grebes occur in waters off NPT and those off Crymlyn Burrows, where numbers >400 have been recorded, appears to be very significant. Under Criterion 6 of the Ramsar Convention, wintering flocks of a waterbird species are considered to be internationally important if they contain 1% or more of the national population. This figure sets the Species Threshold Level, which for the Great Crested Grebe in UK is currently at 190. Numbers greater than this qualify a site to be of high international, conservation value. Clearly, the number of wintering Great Crested Grebe in Swansea Bay exceed this threshold by a large amount and, importantly, so does that part of the winter flock associated with NPT water. A key, limiting factor in this is the maintenance of sufficient shoals of fish on which these birds depend for food and that, in turn, is dependent on the good health and nutrient dynamics of the bay's marine ecosystem.

Woodland and hedgerows provide habitats for almost 40% of the priority species in NPT. Fortunately, there have been few major changes in the diversity, extent and connectivity of this habitat in the county in the last 20 years and the large area of woodland represented is particularly significant. Woodland Oak woodland, wet alder/ willow woodland, riparian corridor woodland, plantation, scrub, hedgerow The State of Nature of Woodland in Neath Port Talbot Woodland and hedgerows provide habitats for almost 40% of the priority species in NPT. Their value for biodiversity is enormous. Fortunately, there have been few major changes in the diversity, extent and connectivity of this habitat in the county in the last 20 years and the large area of woodland represented is particularly significant. However, there are important concerns about the occurrence of INNS such as Rhododendron in some woodland habitats, which precludes an assessment of excellent. Accordingly, the resilience and state of nature in woodland in NPT has been assessed as good. OVERVIEW Woodland accounts for 40% of the land area of NPT making it one the most wooded counties in Wales. Most of this is conifer plantation, but a considerable amount of ancient deciduous woodland survives, particularly in the Vale of Neath. Significantly, over a third of NPT's Priority Species occur in its woodland. Conifer forests have a poor diversity of flowering plants but some mature Sitka Spruce coupes have a luxuriant bryophyte ground flora of species normally associated with upland oak woodland. In addition, many species of birds have benefitted greatly from conifer plantations in NPT. Clear-felled and pre-thicket areas provide breeding habitat for Tree Pipit and Nightjar while mature conifer forests support breeding populations of Common Crossbill, Lesser Redpoll, Siskin, Goshawk and Honey Buzzard. In contrast, the wooded corridors along the main river systems often support a diverse flora with Wych Elm, Small-leaved Lime, Ash, Alder, Sycamore and Hazel and colourful vernal, ground floras populated by lots of ancient woodland indicator species such as Bluebell, Primrose, Wood Anemone, Yellow Archangel, Sanicle, Toothwort, Pignut and Ramsons. Cwm Du Wood near Pontardawe and much of the riparian corridor between Aberdulais and Glynneath provide good examples. In the Vale of Neath, Meadow Saxifrage occurs along the shaded riverside edges of these woods where it was known back in the early 19th Century. Sessile Oak woodland with Holly and Rowan predominate on the steeper sides of the Neath, Afan and upper Tawe Valleys. Good examples in the Neath Valley can be seen above Baglan, Tonna, Cadoxton and Cilfrew. Although these woodlands support a less diverse ground flora than those along the rivers, they provide important habitats for woodland mammals (e.g. Badger), birds (e.g. Wood Warbler) and invertebrates. Of particular note is the remarkable discovery of a Blue Ground Beetle population in Maesmelin Wood and more recently in some other Sessile Oak woodlands in the vicinity. Nationally important assemblages of Atlantic bryophytes are found in the woodlands, waterfall areas and ravines in the Pyrddin and Nedd Fechan Valleys, parts of which are in NPT. Upland, valley oak woodlands in the vicinity also provide habitats for the few Pied Flycatchers that still breed in the county. The steep, wooded ravine of the Melincwrt Valley supports ancient Sessile-oak Woodland with a rich flora of lower plants, which includes a small population of Tunbridge Filmy-fern. Ancient species-rich hedges occur throughout NPT, typically on raised banks along old parish lanes. Good examples can be seen along the Bwlch Road between Cimla and Cwmafan, along Fairyland Hill between Llantwit and Mosshouse Reservoir and in numerous places in the northern sector of the county, e.g. Cilebebyll, Godre’r graig, Rhyd y Fro and along the Gwrhyd Road. They form an important connectivity network for wooded habitats in the county. Actions for the recovery of Woodland habitats in NPT Responsibility for these actions lie with all of us and as such, we have not sought to assign actions to particular organisations or groups. Instead, it is our hope that this document will provide the guidance and inspiration for anybody, or any group or organisation, to undertake the actions that are within their capability to deliver. The Secretariat of NPT LNP (NPT Council) are providing a facilitation role to support, collate and monitor work towards these actions. If you would like to discuss your potential involvement in delivery of these actions, please get in touch with biodiversity@npt.gov.uk . Long Eared Owls in NPT Work with partners to protect and enhance the habitat for Long Eared Owl in the Welsh Government Woodland Estate, using evidence gathered by the LNP grant-funded project to survey for LEO undertaken in 2024. Habitat network in the coniferised uplands Protect the habitat network in the Welsh Government Woodland Estate, which includes a network of wildflower grassland along forestry roads, heathland blocks and habitat created by the forest cycle itself e.g. clearfell. Raise awareness of these habitats and species and work with land managers to ensure their protection and restoration. Invasive non-native species removal Pursue opportunities to remove invasive non-native species such as Japanese Knotweed, Cherry Laurel and Himalayan Balsam from protected woodlands Invasive non-native species fly-tipping Education programme to raise awareness of the damage caused by dumping garden waste and within NPTC teams to enable them to recognise INNS in fly-tipped material and deal with them appropriately. Blue Ground Beetle Continue to raise awareness of the population and undertake habitat management to protect the population Ancient Tree Recording Record ancient and veteran trees in the county via the Ancient Tree Inventory to determine where further protection may be required. Celtic Rainforests in NPT Determine the extent of current and potential temporate rainforest habitat in NPT Increase the resilience of protected woodland habitats Undertake management to increase the overall ecosystem resilience of our woodland habitats, including hedgerows. An example of a key method of this would be to remove invasive non-native species such as Rhododendron and Cherry Laurel from our woodlands. Riparian Corridor Woodlands Identify riparian woodlands that are not yet protected and designate as SINC or TPO woodlands as appropriate. PINE LONG-HORNED HOVERFLY This gorgeous hoverfly, with fiery red hairs that make it look like a burning ember, is only found at one location in Wales – among the tall pine trees of Margam Park. It was first recorded there in 2019. It’s larvae inhabit water-filled rot holes of conifers and adults can be found basking in the spring sunshine on pine tree trunks. WOODLAND FUNGI Woodlands are important habitats for fungi and local conifer forests support a large diversity of these fascinating organisms. More than 130 species of macrofungi have been found in Sitka Spruce forests in NPT and Beech woods, such as those in Briton Ferry Woods and Glyncastle Forest, often contain diverse communities. BLUE GROUND BEETLE The Blue Ground Beetle has declined dramatically in Britain over the last 100 years, but it seems to have a stronghold in South Wales. The recent discovery of this striking beetle in Maesmelin Woods and a few other oak woodlands in the Neath Valley is a significant success story for biodiversity in NPT. It seems likely that more populations of this beetle will be discovered in the county. Where to explore woodlands in NPT Publicly accessible sites where you can see woodland habitats in NPT Woodland Projects in NPT Blue Ground Beetle PROJECT Awareness raising, survey and habitat management works in the area of the endangered blue ground beetle. brynau Farm Ancient woodland management and tree planting to extend and buffer the existing woodland. Woodland Officer A Woodland officer (hosted by NPT Council) supports woodland restoration, creation and management in the county. Craig gwladus Habitat enhancement and management at Craig Gwladus Country Park, with elements of community engagement. Woodland management Upland oak wood management at Blaenant y Gwyddyl for pied flycatcher. CASE STUDY Biodiversity in the Welsh Government Woodland Estate (WGWE) The Biodiversity in the WGWE project grew out of a webinar given by Dr Charles Hipkin , which highlighted that the plantation landscape has largely been neglected by species recorders. The biodiversity of these plantations, which contain large areas of open, species-rich, non-forest habitats, is currently managed in accordance with the best evidence available. However, this is largely dependent on and limited by habitat and species surveys by specialist recorders, which needs to increase. The aim of this project was to draw links between Natural Resources Wales (NRW) and the array of local experts in NPT and Rhondda Cynon Taff and, although the relationship between the land management sections of NRW and the project are still being forged, the contacts made during the project have helped to build a strong, collaborative foundation in Welsh best practice and sustainable management of the WGWE. The project had a wide reach through a well-received webinar on the Distribution and Dynamic of Biodiversity in the WGWE which was joined by over 200 people from a range of sectors and counties. The project identified key areas of habitat within the WGWE including willow scrub supporting important epiphytic, hyperoceanic bryophyte and lichen communities, remnant broadleaved woodland, biodiverse roadside verges and deep peat. The importance of the WGWE in supporting key indicator and priority species such as Ivy-leaved Bellflower, Alpine Clubmoss, Stag’s-horn Clubmoss and Fir Clubmoss was also highlighted. Closing remarks in the webinar (reproduced below) sum up some of the outcomes from the project: 'Although this was a brief, pilot-scale project, it has delivered on lots of important outcomes. Not least among these has been the assessment of what we know about biodiversity in the WGWE and, equally, where the gaps in our knowledge are. Given the extent of the coniferised WGWE in counties like NPT and Rhondda Cynon Taff, it is clearly of great importance to make these assessments and fill in the gaps. Furthermore, the project has brought to the attention of lots of people, the role of the WGWE as a refuge for species that are declining in the South Wales bio-landscape and/or at the edge of their biogeographical range. More detail is required going forward.’ Dr Charles Hipkin, Chair of the NPT Local Nature Partnership

Heathland and Moorland provides habitats for almost 1/5 of NPT's Priority Species, but only a small proportion of it is in good condition. Large amounts of habitat have been lost due to land use changes and neglect and, apart from the northern sector of the county, overall connectivity is poor. Heathland and Moorland Marshy grassland, heathland, moorland and ffridd (coed cae) The State of Nature in Heathland and Moorland in Neath Port Talbot Heathland and Moorland provides habitats for almost one fifth of NPT's Priority Species, but only a small proportion of it is in good condition. Large amounts of habitat have been lost due to land use changes and neglect and, apart from the northern sector of the county, overall connectivity is poor. Marshy grassland and rhos pasture in particular have suffered badly and many species that were once widespread are now very scarce. In some places invasive non-native species are a significant problem. There is insufficient data available at this time to assess the health of our surviving ffridd habitats, but much has been lost to forestry plantation. In view of these issues the resilience and state of nature of heathland and moorland in NPT has been assessed as poor. OVERVIEW This broad habitat category consists of marshy grassland, acid grassland/ heathland and moorland and ffridd (coed cae). The upland landscape of NPT has changed significantly over the last 70 years. Much of the moorland and heath that was once extensive there has been planted with conifers and other parts have been converted to improved grazing land. However, some significant areas of moorland remain, particularly in the northern sector of the county, e.g. Gwrhyd, Sarn Helen. These habitats are often dominated by Purple Moor-grass, Sheep’s Fescue and other calcifuge grasses/ sedges with areas of dwarf shrub heath containing Heather and Bilberry. Petty Whin and Dyer’s Greenweed still survive in a few places and wetter areas often contain colourful swards of Bog Asphodel. Marshy grassland (including rhos pasture) is an important specific habitat in this category which can support unique and diverse communities of plants with Devil’s-bit Scabious, Saw-wort, Meadow Thistle, Heath Spotted-orchid, Whorled Caraway, Ivy-leaved Bellflower and Bog Pimpernel. A few marshy grasslands in the northern sector have Marsh Fritillary meta-populations. Where there is base-rich flushing, these habitats may also contain Butterwort, Marsh Valerian and Fen Bedstraw, which are all scarce species in NPT. Ffridd habitats have largely been planted with conifer plantations. They are important for bird species such as Cuckoo where they exist and invertebrates such as Dark Green Fritillary. Heathland and moorland fauna of conservation importance in NPT include Brown Hare, Skylark, Linnet, Cuckoo, Adder, Grass Snake, Hornet Robber-fly and a number of bees such as the Moss Carder Bee. The resilience of heathland and moorland in NPT is under pressure from lack of appropriate management, broken connectivity and invasive non-native species, e.g. Rhododendron, Sitka Spruce. Actions for the recovery of Heathland and Moorland habitats in NPT Responsibility for these actions lie with all of us and as such, we have not sought to assign actions to particular organisations or groups. Instead, it is our hope that this document will provide the guidance and inspiration for anybody, or any group or organisation, to undertake the actions that are within their capability to deliver. The Secretariat of NPT LNP (NPT Council) are providing a facilitation role to support, collate and monitor work towards these actions. If you would like to discuss your potential involvement in delivery of these actions, please get in touch with biodiversity@npt.gov.uk . Management for Marsh Fritillary Maintain and enhance current management and monitoring of sites in the Dulais Valley and extend into additional sites where possible to continue to support the Marsh Fritillary meta-population Inventory of marshy grasslands Undertake an inventory of grasslands and assess their condition where possible. Identify opportunities for restoring sites Respect for Reptiles Raise awareness to prevent persecution of adders in areas where human/ adder interaction is more likely. Adder Recording Increase adder recording in the north of the county where understanding of populations and their distributions is low Prevent damage from tree planting Prevent tree planting on heathland and moorland habitats in NPT and raise awareness of the value of these habitats Restore heathland and moorland habitats Where possible, habitat creation and restoration should be considered. For example, clear-felled conifer coupes should be assessed for their potential in marshy grassland (or peatbog) restoration. Removal of invasive non-native species (e.g. Rhododendron, Sitka Spruce) from some sites is a matter of urgency Heathland and Moorland Highways Maintain the strips of heathland and moorland habitat which can be found in the coniferised uplands along forest road verges and banks. These remnant habitats need to be maintained with the appropriate management to maintain the species which can be found here e.g. clubmosses. Rare and important plant species Promote the recovery of key axiophytes including Globe Flower, Meadow Thistle and Dyer’s Greenweed. Re-introductions may be necessary if appropriate. Promote Connectivity of Marshy Grassland Work with partners to promote better connectivity between marshy grassland, to benefit species such as the Marsh Fritillary butterfly Ffridd / Coedcae Increase our understanding of the extent and condition of ffridd habitats in Neath Port Talbot. Work with partners to retore and protect it. MARSH FRITILLARY The Marsh Fritillary butterfly has undergone a significant decline in numbers in Wales and this picture is reflected in the dramatic loss of populations from NPT over the last 50 years. Its favoured habitat in the county is marshy grassland or rhos pasture with Devil's-bit Scabious, which the caterpillars feed on, and plants that provide nectar for flying adults, e.g. Meadow Thistle. Loss of appropriate habitat followed by broken meta-population connectivity have probably played a major role in the decline. IVY LEAVED BELLFLOWER Due to the large losses of its native habitats which have occurred in the last 100 years, Ivy-Leaved Bellflower is an endangered species of some concern. In NPT, it is found in a few unimproved marshy grassland and heathland habitats but also in humid banks above streams and ditches in conifer plantations where it is protected from intense grazing. The plight and conservation of this charming species has been ignored in Wales while it has continued to shrink in its abundance due to habitat loss. Populations in NPT require careful consideration and management. ADDER The Adder is the only venomous snake in the UK but is not an aggressive species. Adders are mostly found in areas of rough countryside with edge habitats. They are variable in colour but always have a distinctive dark zig-zag down the spine. The best way to find them is to move slowly along the edge of a path through bracken but even then you will need to be very quiet and have a keen eye to spot them. Adders unfortunately still suffer from some persecution in NPT. Where to explore heathland and moorland in NPT Publicly accessible sites where you can see heathland and moorland habitats in NPT Heathland and Moorland Projects in NPT HABITAT MANAGEMENT FOR MARSH FRITILLARY Habitat management projects such as the large-scale conservation grazing programme taking place in the Dulais Valley are helping to restore marshy grasslands suitable for supporting Marsh Fritillary meta-populations. WIND FARM HABITAT MANAGEMENT PLANS Habitat management plans covering these habitats are in place as part of mitigation for the Llynfi Afan and Pen y Cymoedd Windfarms. gwrhyd MEADOWS Habitat management agreement is in place for management of acid grasslands and marshy grasslands at Gwrhyd Meadows SSSI. Notable plant species recorded here include Ivy-leaved Bellflower. payment for results on common land This Project is investigating a potential payment system which aims to encourage positive action to conserve and enhance habitat on common land. CILYBEBYLL SSSI Discussions taking place to determine habitat management plan for Cilybebyll SSSI. Cilybebyll is of special interest for its species-rich grasslands and wet pastures, which are host to several uncommon plant species. CASE STUDY Monitoring and conservation management of Marsh Fritillary in NPT Historical records indicate that the Marsh Fritillary was widespread in NPT 50 years ago, with colonies scattered in both the northern and southern sectors of the county. At that time, species-rich marshy grasslands with Devil's-bit Scabious, Meadow Thistle, Heath Spotted-orchid and other significant species were more common in our landscape than today. The Marsh Fritillary has a limited dispersal ability and requires a network of connected habitats and colonies that allow some interchange between otherwise discrete colonies. At any one time within this meta-population network some habitats may not be occupied, but their presence and potential for colonisation is nevertheless a major factor in Marsh Fritillary meta-population dynamics. The significant losses of marshy grassland habitat that have occurred in Neath Port Talbot in the last 50 years have not only removed breeding grounds for this colourful butterfly but have also broken the habitat connectivity that is crucial for dispersal and meta-population maintenance. The availability of suitable marshy grasslands in an appropriately connected landscape is key to the success and conservation of the Marsh Fritillary in NPT. Under the leadership of Butterfly Conservation and a dedicated group of organised volunteers, a large amount of effort has been put into finding, surveying and monitoring Marsh Fritillary sites in NPT and neighbouring areas of Carmarthenshire. It has become clear that the Marsh Fritillary is largely, if not entirely, confined to the Dulais and Amman Valleys, in the northern sector of the county. Each year known and potential breeding sites in these areas are monitored for the presence of larval webs and their condition is assessed. Butterfly Conservation have also worked in partnership with Natural Resources Wales to reclaim and manage marshy grassland suitable for Marsh Fritillary in the Dulais Valley, on NRW owned land previously planted with Sitka Spruce or intensively grazed. An important part of the conservation management strategy throughout has been the organisation of sympathetic grazing regimes to keep habitats in a condition favourable for Marsh Fritillary. At present we have 7 occupied Marsh Fritillary sites in NPT as well as a number of suitable sites that have not been colonised. There are strong populations in the Dulais Valley in the vicinity of Blaendulais but the largest populations are found in the Amman Valley and particularly near Tairgwaith and Cwmgors. Connectivity analysis reveals that these habitats are parts of larger, complex meta-population networks that reside mainly in Dyfed and Powys.

The sheer diversity of species in OMH habitats, and the large number of Section 7 species among them, qualifies these habitats as some of the most important biodiversity resources in the county. However, they are vulnerable to re-development, habitat destruction and species losses. Open Mosaic Habitats On previously developed land, on spoil, on industrial land The State of Nature in Open Mosaic Habitats in Neath Port Talbot Open mosaic habitats support a significant proportion of the priority species in NPT. This, along with the sheer diversity of species often found in these habitats, and the large number of Section 7 species among them, qualifies these habitats as some of the most important biodiversity resources in the county. However, they are vulnerable to re-development, habitat destruction and species losses. They are also susceptible to successional changes through scrub encroachment by native woody species and invasive non-native species such as Buddleia and Cotoneasters. The role played by open mosaic habitats as refuges for Section 7 species should not be underestimated and there is an urgent requirement to find solutions compatible with development and the maintenance of their biodiversity in the future. e.g. designation of biodiversity refuge areas for protection and management. Because of their uncertain future, it is difficult to assess the long-term resilience of these habitats. However, attributes such as diversity, extent and connectivity currently score well, so the status quo resilience and the short-term state of nature in open mosaic habitats in NPT has been assessed as good. Maintaining this in the long term will require careful, sympathetic planning. OVERVIEW Most of the coastal zone of NPT has been altered radically by the development of heavy industry, perhaps more than any other part of Wales. This has resulted in the loss of large amounts of biodiverse habitats such as sand dunes, coastal marshes and fens. However, when such industrial land is cleared, the open mosaic habitats that are created can provide opportunities and refuge for uncommon species. Basil Thyme is a good example of an otherwise rare Section 7 species in Wales that has benefitted from the creation of coastal, open mosaic habitats in NPT such as on Baglan Energy Park. Other notable species found here include Lapwing, Linnet, Shrill Carder-bee, Small Blue, Dingy Skipper, Inclined Ditrichum (a moss), Autumn Lady’s Tresses, Common Cudweed, Deptford Pink, Marsh Helleborine, Sticky Stork’s-bill, and Yellow Bartsia. This remarkable open mosaic habitat supports the highest diversity of species in NPT, including numerous Section 7 species. In addition, inland spoil and quarry habitats provide refuges for priority and Section 7 species such as Adder, Grass Snake and numerous uncommon beetles, ground bugs, solitary bees and other pollinators. These sites are often designated as ‘brownfield’ and are therefore vulnerable to development. However, many of these sites in NPT are designated as Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs) although this does not always protect them from development. Other threats include inappropriate reclamation/ remediation, tree planting, planting with crop biofuels, absence of management, lack of recognition of their value and invasive non-native species. Open mosaic sites provide habitats for a quarter of NPT’s priority species, including 18 Section 7 species. They provide refuge for numerous species that are vulnerable and they are an asset for wildlife conservation. Actions for the recovery of Open Mosaic habitats in NPT Responsibility for these actions lie with all of us and as such, we have not sought to assign actions to particular organisations or groups. Instead, it is our hope that this document will provide the guidance and inspiration for anybody, or any group or organisation, to undertake the actions that are within their capability to deliver. The Secretariat of NPT LNP (NPT Council) are providing a facilitation role to support, collate and monitor work towards these actions. If you would like to discuss your potential involvement in delivery of these actions, please get in touch with biodiversity@npt.gov.uk . Management A coherent management strategy for biodiverse open mosaic sites is needed so that refuge habitats can be provided for rare and declining species. Long-term biodiversity management should be built into planning and a move away from default, amenity-planting of non-native shrubs is required Protection Continue to protect OMH sites to prevent loss to development, inappropriate reclamation, tree planting, biofuel planting etc. Awareness Raising Lack of awareness of the importance of these sites for biodiversity is a significant threat to these habitats. Take action to raise awareness of their importance where possible Rare Species Monitoring Continue to monitor the rare and protected species which can be found on open mosaic habitats in NPT, e.g. Deptford Pink, Basil Thyme and Shrill Carder Bee © Mark Hipkin © Barry Stewart © Charles Hipkin SHRILL CARDER BEE This very rare bee is only found in a handful of places in the UK with NPT being a stronghold in South Wales. It’s a bit tricky to identify but with a good look you may see the main features: pale blond in colour, with a dark brown band between the wing bases and a ginger tail. The queens fly very fast creating a high-pitched buzz. The coastal grasslands of NPT are an important area for the species. They favour wildflower habitats such as sand dunes, with plants with long corolla such as Red Bartsia. LAPWING Lapwings are a scarce and declining breeding species in the County and are more common on passage and in winter. There have been no recent breeding records in the uplands with breeding sites confined to coastal areas, particularly open mosaic habitats on previously industrialised land, which is often ephemeral. There were a minimum of 8 pairs breeding in the old BP site at Baglan Bay in 2019 and probable breeding at Llandarcy. However, numbers have declined significantly in these sites in recent years. The general decline in lapwing breeding numbers across Wales has been linked to changes in farming policy and practice. BASIL THYME A beautiful, small, violet-flowered member of the Sage family that is now very scarce in Britain and considered to be vulnerable in Wales. It is largely a southern species, usually associated with calcareous grassland but it has undergone a significant decline in this habitat in Britain in recent decades as a result of grassland improvements and intensive grazing. It is exclusively coastal in its distribution in NPT where it is a rare species of dune grassland. However, large populations of this species occur in open mosaic habitats on previously industrialised land near Baglan Dunes and these may be the largest populations of this species in Wales. Development of these sites in the future poses a significant challenge to the conservation of this species in NPT and Wales. Where to explore open-mosaic habitats in NPT Publicly accessible sites where you can see open mosaic habitats on previously developed land in NPT Open Mosaic Habitat Projects in NPT BRYN TIP LNR Bryn Tip is a Local Nature Reserve, designated as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) for its 'open mosaic habitats on previously developed land'. Once a coal tip, now it is a haven for people and wildlife in active management. cOLLIERY SPOIL INVERTEBRATE SURVEYS Surveys of colliery spoil sites across NPT were undertaken in 2018 in order to contribute to an increased understanding of colliery spoil habitats and their associated invertebrate fauna. Habitat management has taken place in recent years at one of the sites, Cwm Nanto. dEPTFORD PINK MONITORING Since 1997, the size of the NPT population of the scarce Deptford Pink has been estimated each year by counting individual flowering plants. This enables the LNP to monitor the health of the population. CASE STUDY MORFA TIP Morfa Tip is a large mound of landfill built mostly of furnace slag and other industrial by-products from Margam Steelworks (now Tata Steel). The original, unlined tip, which dates back to the 1970s, released significant amounts of caustic leachate, much of which drained into nearby Margam Moors. With the introduction of stringent landfill regulations, the site was eventually decommissioned, capped and covered in an impermeable liner. Following this, in line with new environmental regulations linked with planning regulations, a program of ecological (biodiversity) surveys was initiated and the remediation and development of this open mosaic site has been monitored and recorded each year ever since. To date, a total of 640 species has been recorded on Morfa Tip and immediate, peripheral areas. These include mammals (5), reptiles (5) birds (80), invertebrates (98) bryophytes (71), macroscopic fungi (22), lichens (22) and vascular plants (337). One of the most significant ecological developments on this 93ha site over the last 2 decades has been the accumulation of windblown sand originating from Morfa Beach and the remnant areas of dune which lay to the west of the tip. This has given rise to a dune-like landscape which continues to evolve and now supports a rich assemblage of vascular plant species. Notable among them are orchids such as Autumn Ladies-tresses, Bee Orchid, Marsh Helleborine, Broad-leaved Helleborine, Green-veined Orchid, Early Marsh-orchid and Southern Marsh-orchid. Other species of note include Round-leaved Wintergreen, Variegated Horsetail and two scarce neophytes, Bugseed and French Bartsia. A system of pools and ditches on the capped tip provide habitat for a diversity of aquatic species such as Thread-leaved Water Crowfoot, Small Pondweed and Stoneworts, while a well-developed emergent flora there includes Reeds, Bulrush, Grey Clubrush, and Pink Water-speedwell, among others. Dune grassland with colourful species such as Wild Thyme, Kidney Vetch, Common Stork's-bill, Dove's-foot Cranesbill and Viper's Bugloss occur around the base of the landfill where winter annual, semi-fixed dune species like Hutchinsia may also be found. Large areas on the east side of the tip are dominated by coarse grasses such as Wood Small-reed and Sea Couch. On the bare, damp sandy mud which lay to the west of the capped tip a fascinating community with Frog Rush and Cavernous Crystalwort has developed. The potential for the development of new, species-rich dune slack systems on Morfa Tip is eagerly anticipated. Already there are several areas that support Creeping Willow communities with Round-leaved Wintergreen and remarkable populations of the scarce fungus, Foxy Fibrecap. Priority fauna species associated with Morfa Tip include Shrill Carder-bee, Lapwing and Brown Hare.