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There are significant challenges for nature in the urban landscape and species are threatened by, amongst other things, loss of nesting sites, lack of connectivity and inappropriate habitat management (e.g. mowing through flowering season). Urban Habitats Gardens, hard engineering, parks, green infrastructure The State of Nature in Urban Habitats in Neath Port Talbot There are significant challenges for nature in the urban landscape and species are threatened by, amongst other things, loss of nesting sites, lack of connectivity and inappropriate habitat management (e.g. mowing through flowering season). Although most urban areas in NPT contain wildlife habitat, in many areas this is not by design and there is a need for more areas to be specifically managed and maintained for nature in urban areas. Many species in urban habitats have decreased significantly in NPT in recent decades e.g. swifts and hedgehogs. Urban habitats support 13 priority species and, accordingly, their diversity has been assessed as fair. Connectivity between urban landscapes is good, but it is difficult to frame this specifically in terms of good habitat connectivity. For example, the level of connectivity between gardens for species such as Hedgehog and Slow Worm is unknown. Most of the urban habitats in NPT are not managed with biodiversity in mind and there are regular losses of habitat as a result of human activity e.g. loss of nest sites for swifts as repairs take place on buildings, therefore their condition is poor. Taking all of this into account, the state of nature and resilience of Urban Habitats in NPT has been assessed as fair . OVERVIEW Urban Habitats, such as buildings, parks and gardens, support 5% of NPT's Priority Species although none of them are specific to this broad habitat category. Nevertheless, since Urban Habitats make up more than 15% of the land surface of NPT, there is a significant potential here to enhance biodiversity through the creation and management of nature-friendly networks of gardens, parkland and buildings. They are particularly important habitats for birds that utilise the eaves of houses for nesting places, and bat species that make their homes in roof spaces and dilapidated buildings. Other important species such as Hedgehog and Slow Worm are commonly associated with urban gardens. Urban Habitats can also play a significant connectivity role, e.g. parks can provide ‘stepping stones’ of habitat in amongst urban features, while grassy commons, verges and hedges may be important for connecting these habitats throughout urban areas. Bee-friendly gardens can play a crucial role in the conservation of pollinators. The Hedgehog is an iconic garden species that has been recorded in most urban settlements in NPT and a few gardens may also provide opportunities for Badger and Otter. Margam Park is one of the best bat sites in the UK, providing roosting sites and foraging habitat for 14 of the 18 UK bat species. Breeding populations of Herring Gull, House Sparrow, and House Martin can be found on buildings in suitable places, while Swift have undergone significant decreases in numbers over the last 50 years. Toads breed in Cwm-Clydach pond before dispersing to neighbouring gardens and fields for the rest of the year. Along the coastal conurbations of Sandfields and Aberavon, rare bumblebees including the Brown Banded Carder and Shrill Carder Bees can be found foraging on patches of wildflowers. As a result of the COVID Lockdowns in 2020, the NPT LNP noticed an increase in public interest in nature conservation as people became more aware of the nature in their local areas. This is an important opportunity to encourage appropriate action and raise awareness of ways in which local people can assist nature locally without causing inadvertent harm. Actions for the recovery of Urban 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 . Increase connectivity in the urban landscape Increase connectivity for nature between urban habitats, particularly safe routes for species vulnerable to road death e.g. hedgehog Swift Recovery Breeding populations of Swifts in NPT are declining. The current status and distribution of Swift in the county needs to be assessed and appropriate action should be undertaken to halt this decline NPT Bee Friendly Continue increasing the extent of roadside verges in active management for wildflowers and expand the scope by engaging with town and community councils Parks, Amenity Grassland and Cemeteries Undertake an assessment of the biodiversity value of parks and amenity grassland in NPT and identify opportunities to enhance habitat, for example, through grassland management or pursuing pollinator-friendly planting in landscaping Bee Friendly Streets Encourage nature-friendly gardening in urban areas NPT for Nature Continue to provide support for people taking action for nature in the county through the sub-group of the LNP, NPT for Nature Green Infrastructure Increase the installation of green infrastructure e.g. green roofs, living wall © Vaughn Matthews © Vaughn Matthews HEDGEHOG The Hedgehog is well recorded in most of the urban areas of NPT, although many of these records are from road deaths. The perils of crossing roads, along with other pressures such as barriers between gardens and the use of toxic slug pellets are contributing to the decline of this iconic species. A trend for 'tidy', low maintenance gardens is leading to additional habitat loss for the 'gardeners' friend'. SWIFT This summer visitor breeds in mainly urban areas in NPT however numbers recorded as confirmed breeders have declined in recent years. This decline is thought to be due in part to a loss of nesting opportunities as buildings are renovated to modern standards. The provision of nest boxes or integral swift bricks in suitable buildings may help to increase available nesting sites. COMMON TOAD The Common Toad is another species susceptible to road deaths in NPT, when in spring, they migrate across urban areas in their hundreds to their breeding ponds. The case study below provides an account of how members of the LNP are working to ameliorate this. Although Toads are likely to be well distributed in NPT, they are under- recorded. Urban Projects in NPT NPT Bee Friendly A scheme to increase the area and extent of wildflower grassland (i.e. roadside verges and larger meadow areas which are managed to encourage wildflowers and pollinating insects) in NPT. GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE A number of green infrastructure projects are taking place across the county, for example, green roofs were recently installed on containers at Craig Gwladus Country Park. toad patrols Bryncoch Environment Group have been undertaking a toad patrol every spring since 2006 to rescue toads on roads in Bryncoch. Read more in the case study below. Stepping stones nature reserves Creation of habitat through Welsh Government Local Places for Nature funding e.g. through 'grey to green' schemes such as Stepping Stones Nature Reserves. SWIFT MONITORING PROJECT A collaborative project by members of NPT LNP to monitor and record swifts in NPT, to determine breeding locations of swifts around the county and inform where conservation should be focussed. CASE STUDY BRYNCOCH TOAD PATROL Although associated with water, toads and other amphibians actually spend most of the year on land. When they are not at their breeding ponds, they disperse into the surrounding countryside. However, each spring, toads return to their spawning ponds in large numbers. They favour deeper and bigger ponds than frogs and are quite loyal to particular sites. This means they often have to travel long distances, often through urban areas where they have to cross roads on their journey. Every year since 2006, during the toad migration season (around March), members of the Bryncoch Environment Group (BEG) are out each night to rescue toads on local roads as they travel to their breeding ponds. In the first year of this operation 970 toads were rescued while 799 were rescued in 2019. Over the last 13 years thousands of amphibians have been saved by BEG members assisted by a large number of volunteers who are concerned for the decline in toad and frog numbers in recent decades. One of the main problems that the BEG have to overcome is the rescue of large number of toads that fall into drainage gully pots on the sides of roads, from which the toads are unable to escape. As a result, during their “toad patrol” the volunteers spend a lot of their time lifting the gully pots and rescuing toads with fishing nets. The rescued toads are then put into buckets and transported directly to their spawning pond. To reduce the time spent checking every gully pot, the group applied to the LNP for funding to purchase ‘toad ladders’, specially designed structures which sit in the gully pots and allow toads to escape after falling in. The LNP was able to purchase ten ladders for the group which were installed in gully pots around Bryncoch.

Semi-natural grassland is one of the county’s most important biodiversity resources. Unfortunately, it is also the habitat that has suffered the greatest decreases in extent, condition and connectivity. Semi-Natural Grassland Mesotrophic grasslands, restored coal waste, amenity grassland and levels The State of Nature in Semi-Natural Grassland in Neath Port Talbot Semi-improved, mesotrophic grassland supports almost one fifth of NPT's priority species and is one of the county’s most important biodiversity resources. Unfortunately, it is also the habitat that has suffered the greatest decreases in extent, condition and connectivity. This is particularly true for species-rich hay meadows which are scarce, disconnected and often badly managed or neglected. Broken connectivity in these habitats has had a significant negative effect on the distribution of priority species such as Narrow-bordered Bee Hawk-moth and numerous priority plant species such as Meadow Thistle, Wood Bitter-vetch, Petty Whin and Dyer’s Greenweed. In view of this we have assessed the resilience and state of nature in semi-improved grasslands in NPT as poor. OVERVIEW Semi-improved grasslands in NPT provide habitats for a fifth of the county’s priority species. Most of these habitats are neutral, mesotrophic grasslands such as hay meadows, roadside verges/roundabouts, alluvial meadows, levels and restored grassland on coal spoil. If marshy grassland (which is included in the Heathland and Moorland category) is added, then the proportion of priority species is greater than one quarter, which is very significant. Traditionally managed hay meadows are rare in NPT, but the biodiverse Hafod Wennol SSSI meadows (and neighbouring areas) north of Pontardawe are exemplary with key indicator/priority species such as Large-flowered Eyebright, Greater Butterfly-orchid, and Greater Burnet. The inventory of biodiverse neutral grassland in NPT is augmented to some extent by an extensive network of roadside verges and roundabouts, some of which support diverse, colourful mesotrophic grassland communities. Good examples are found along Fabian Way (A465) near Jersey Marine, along Central Avenue near Baglan Energy Park, on the Saltings Roundabout near Neath and on Harbour Way in Port Talbot (near the steelworks) where colonies of Small Blue Butterfly can be found. Large amounts of restored grassland on coal spoil occur in the county. Good examples can be seen on Bryn Tip, the restored Selar opencast grasslands near Blaengwrach and restored grasslands in the upper Dulais Valley. Some of these sites have complex habitat mosaics and a rich diversity of grassland species, often with key indicator species such as Bee Orchid, Common Spotted-orchid, Carline Thistle, Pignut and Rough Hawkbit. The plight of species-rich grasslands in NPT is a major concern. Land use changes, development, agricultural improvement and neglect have all played a role in the disappearance of these habitats in the county over the last 70 years. Reversing this trend will require a step change in attitudes, recognition of their intrinsic value and changes in management practices. Sympathetic stewardship, habitat creation, roadside verge management and restoration can all play a part in this. Actions for the recovery of Semi-Natural Grassland 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 . Semi-natural grassland status in NPT Survey areas where understanding of semi-natural grassland status is poor to establish a baseline of the resilience of this habitat for these areas Semi-natural grassland conservation strategy Establish a strategy for semi-natural grassland management and restoration in NPT NPT Bee Friendly Continue to increase the area and extent of land managed as wildflower grassland, including roadside verge, on land managed by members of the partnership. Encourage similar management to take place on others' land Hay meadow management Establish meadows at large sites such as Gnoll Country Park and Margam Country Park, as well as on private land. These will have the added benefit of raising awareness of the plight of hay meadows. Conservation grazing on special sites Continue to take steps to establish or maintain conservation grazing on special sites where appropriate e.g. Bryn Tip LNR and Resolven Floodplain Meadows. Investigate funding for a shared mobile handling system and fencing technologies Town and Community Councils Engage with Town and Community Councils to knowledge share and support change of management on their land, to encourage semi-natural grassland Burial grounds for nature Engage with churches and cemeteries to change mowing regimes to increase the extent and area of wildflower and waxcap grasslands VOG, Bridgend and NPT Meadows Group Continue to support the meadows group to take action in NPT to manage semi-natural grassland habitats © Charles Hipkin GREATER BURNET Greater Burnet is a species of mesotrophic grasslands, particularly on flood plains, but it is also found in roadside verges and dune grasslands. It is quite tall and very conspicuous when it is in flower with its almost black, wind-pollinated flowerheads. It is widely distributed in the Neath and upper Tawe Valleys where it is an important indicator of semi-improved, mesotrophic grassland. Its scattered distribution in the upper Neath Valley between Resolven and Glyn Neath suggest that the bottom-lands here were predominantly alluvial grasslands before they were drained and improved for grazing. ROESEL'S BUSH CRICKET This attractive cricket is a relatively new addition to the NPT fauna. It was reported by a member of the public in 2019 from the Skewen area. A medium sized cricket they are brown to yellow with a green shade with three pale spots on the thorax and a cream-coloured margin around the sides of the pronotum. Females are identified by their large ovipositor (which looks like a sting but is totally harmless). The males have a very distinct song (striadulation) which is continuous and very high pitched. The species is currently expanding its range from south-east England north and west, possibly due to climate change as they do best in hot summers. GREATER BUTTERFLY ORCHID This large, striking orchid is a key indicator of traditionally managed, neutral, mesotrophic grassland in south Wales. It is currently known from only two grassland sites in NPT, both in the northern sector of the county. The number of individuals that appear varies greatly from year to year, which is fairly typical of hay meadow orchids. The flowers emit a heavy scent, particularly at night when they attract the attention of large moths, such as hawkmoths, which feed on the nectar contained in the flower’s deep spur. The survival of this priority species in NPT is completely dependent on the continued management of the grasslands in which it is found as hay meadows. Where to explore semi-natural grassland in NPT Publicly accessible sites where you can see semi-natural grassland habitats in NPT Semi-Natural Grassland Projects in NPT VOG, Bridgend and NPT Meadows Group A cross-boundary Meadows group providing support to those wishing to create, restore or manage meadows through networking and peer support. BUGLIFE NPT B-Lines A three year project working along B-Lines Networks in NPT to create and manage habitat for pollinators with local communities. Wildflower verge management Management of roadside verges for biodiversity taking place at various sites throughout the county. MAGNIFICENT MEADOWS PROJECT The Plantlife Magnificent Meadows project has supported the formation of community meadows across the county, for example, at Glantawe Riverside Park. Rheola floodplain meadows Management through conservation grazing and hay cuts, and monitoring of the floodplain meadows near Rheola, where Greater Burnet can be found. SHRILL CARDER BEE STRATEGY A strategy for the conservation of the endangered Shrill Carder Bee was launched in 2020, covering the Kenfig- Port Talbot population. CASE STUDY NPT Bee Friendly In recent years, the loss of wildflower grassland habitat and the pollinating insects they support has become an issue of public concern. NPT Council has a responsibility to address nature and climate emergencies such as this and is also committed to protect, conserve and enhance our natural environment under the terms of the Corporate Plan , Biodiversity Duty Plan , NPT Nature Recovery Action Plan and The Action Plan for Pollinators in Wales . A new approach to managing the verges and grasslands of NPT has been approved by the County Council’s Regeneration and Sustainable Development Cabinet Board on 30th July 2021 and is being progressively implemented by NPT Council as resources allow. The aim of this scheme is to increase the area and extent of wildflower grassland (i.e. roadside verges and larger meadow areas which are managed to encourage wildflowers and pollinating insects) in NPT County Borough. Traditionally, local authority-managed roadside verges in NPT are all cut every 2-3 weeks during the growing season i.e. late March to end September and the arisings are mulched and dropped on top of the grass. This fertilises the soil, encouraging further grass growth. As of 2021, at certain locations with the Streetcare Services Section, NPT Council will be changing this management and instead encouraging the growth of wildflowers and reducing the frequency of required cuts through the use of ‘cut and collect’ machines. Road verges such as Harbour Way, Fabian Way and Saltings Roundabout are included in this scheme, along with many new areas around the county. Read more here.

We need to understand how nature is coping in NPT, so that we can protect our wild places. Assessing the state of nature in NPT is the first step towards a healthy environment. It will help us plan actions to provide future generations with an inspiring place to live. The State of Nature in NPT We need to understand how nature is coping in NPT, so that we can protect our wild places. Assessing the state of nature in NPT is the first step towards a healthy environment. It helps us plan actions to provide future generations with an inspiring place to live. The State of Nature 2019 (A Summary for Wales) report revealed some sobering statistics which included evidence for a decline of 41% in the abundance of species in the last 50 years, with 17% of Wales' species currently at risk of extinction. In order to understand local trends and pressures, and to guide action to aid recovery, Neath Port Talbot Local Nature Partnership (NPT LNP) has undertaken an assessment of the State of Nature in the county, linked with a Nature Recovery Action Plan. Using the evidence available to us, we have made an assessment of the state of nature of the habitats of NPT. We have grouped these habitats into 11 broad habitat categories. Sadly, of these 11 habitat categories, only two are in good state. It will require urgent action to improve the state of nature in NPT. Discover more about each habitat by clicking the links below. Habitats in NPT have been classified into 11 broad categories and each of these has been divided further into sub-categories or specific habitats. Some of these habitats support large numbers of priority species yet their biodiversity is threatened by pressures such as development and neglect. The collective resilience of these habitats is a good indicator of the state of nature in NPT. Of the 11 broad habitat categories, nine are assessed to be in less than good state and five are assessed as poor. Woodland and Open Mosaic Habitats in the county have been assessed as good, with the caveats that there are problems with invasive non-native species in both and many biodiverse Open Mosaic Habitats are threatened with development. Resilience of each habitat is colour-coded below; Red (Poor ecosystem resilience), Amber (Fair ecosystem resilience) or Green (Good ecosystem resilience) Heathland and Moorland Read More Marshy grassland, heathland, moorland and ffridd (coed cae) Semi-natural Grassland Read More Mesotrophic grasslands, restored coal waste, amenity grassland and levels Wetland Habitats Read More Fens, bogs, springs and seepages Coastal Habitats Read More Sand dunes, saltmarsh, estuary, intertidal sand and mud, man-made structures Marine Habitats Read More Inshore/ subtidal marine habitats Freshwater Read More Lakes, reservoirs and ponds, rivers and streams, canals Inland Rock and Cliff Read More Exposed crags, scree Urban Read More Gardens, hard engineering, parks, green infrastructure Enclosed Farmland Read More Arable land, improved grassland, drystone walls and boundaries Woodland Read More Oak woodland, wet alder/ willow woodland, riparian corridor woodland, plantation, scrub, hedgerow Open Mosaic Habitats Read More On previously developed land, on spoil, on industrial land Habitat Map This habitat map of NPT shows the distribution of different habitat types across the county. It is a Phase 1 map , constructed from 2021 aerial imagery. Priority Species We have put together a list of 237 priority species from a comprehensive dataset of field records provided by members of the NPT LNP over the last 20 years. In our database, we link each species in the list only with the habitat(s) in which it occurs in NPT. For example, as far as we can tell from our records, the Marsh Fritillary butterfly only breeds in marshy grasslands in NPT and can only be cross-referenced to this habitat in our database, even though it may breed in other habitats (e.g. sand dunes) elsewhere. This allows us to make an evidence-based assessment of priority species diversity for each habitat in NPT. Invertebrates (e.g. butterflies and moths) make up the largest proportion of our priority species. A full list of NPT’s priority species is given in Appendix 2 (Appendices). Numbers of priority species found in the various broad habitat types. The importance of woodlands, coastal habitats, grasslands, and open mosaic habitats for priority species in NPT is clear. Reviewing the State of Nature of NPT The State of Nature in NPT will be reviewed again in 2028. The actions and the priority species list will be reviewed each year in the first meeting of the New Year of the NPT Local Nature Partnership. If you would like to help deliver a particular action in the plan, recommend a new action, suggest a review or take part in the review process, please get in touch.

Invasive non-native species (INNS) are regarded as a significant threat to biodiversity. There are a group of 14 invasive neophyte species and groups that we believe are of particular concern in NPT. Invasive Non-Native Species in NPT Invasive non-native species (INNS) are regarded as a significant threat to biodiversity. In the UK, all INNS are neophytes, i.e. non-native species that have been introduced into the British flora since 1600AD. Currently, the number of naturalised neophytes in Britain outnumbers the number of native species, but most neophytes have little impact on biodiversity and many may actually add something to it on a local scale. However, there are a group of 14 invasive neophyte species and groups that we believe are of particular concern in NPT. Of these, Himalayan Balsam (or Indian Balsam), Japanese Knotweed and Rhododendron are notorious, but each species in this list has a significant impact on one or more of our principal habitats (see Table 2). Other potentially invasive species in the county such as Lupin, Chinese Bramble, American Skunk Cabbage and Henry’s Honeysuckle could pose a threat in the future. Several other neophyte species which are abundant and aggressive competitors, particularly in early successional or ruderal environments, include some Stonecrop species, Bilbao Fleabane and Hoary Mustard, but none of these have significant effects on local biodiversity. Similarly, there are a number of garden throw-out species which are widespread and persistent in the county, notably Dotted Loosestrife and Montbretia, which we believe are not having significant effects on biodiversity at present. Interesting problems are posed by some garden plants that have become established and/or naturalised in some habitats where they might cross fertilise and hybridise with native species. Two significant examples are given by Spanish (and Hybrid) Bluebell and the silver-blotched leaf form of Garden Yellow Archangel. The extent to which Spanish/Hybrid Bluebell has hybridised with native Bluebells and the effect that this may have on the genetic purity of local native Bluebell populations is largely unknown. At the moment there is little evidence that there is cause for concern but it seems prudent to eradicate naturalised Spanish/Hybrid Bluebells from areas where they could hybridise with native Bluebells e.g. in ancient woodland and hedgerow. Similarly, it would be wise to control naturalised populations of Garden Yellow Archangel, which is much more vigorous and competitive than our native Yellow Archangel. With regards to invasive non-native fauna in NPT, we have records for a number of species, including: American Mink Grey Squirrel Red-eared Terrapin Egyptian Goose Of these, perhaps the most common is the Grey Squirrel, which is ubiquitous across NPT and commonly seen across our parks, gardens and woodlands. The Grey Squirrel is a North American species, which is highly competitive with the native Red Squirrel, as well as transmitting a disease (Parapoxvirus) which has decimated the Red Squirrel populations in Wales. Red Squirrels were once found across the whole of NPT but by 1999 they had disappeared from the county and from much of Wales as a whole. This decline in the Red Squirrel has been attributed to the Grey Squirrel, though habitat loss, road traffic and other predators are also likely to have had an impact. Likewise, a similar correlation can be seen between the decline of the Water Vole and the spread of the American Mink, which has been blamed for the decline of Water Vole in other areas across the UK. We do not have substantial evidence of other non-native fauna causing significant problems in NPT, though this is not to say it is not occurring. Brief descriptions of the INNS of most concern in NPT and a summary of their main impacts is given below. A wider list of INNS problematic across the whole of Wales has been collated and details of this list can be found on the Wales Biodiversity Partnership website. The Distribution of INNS (of particular concern) in NPT habitats The table below shows the occurrence of 18 INNS in the NPT’s major terrestrial and freshwater habitat categories. Note that waterweeds are listed as separate species except for Nuttall’s and Canadian Pondweed which are included together. A number of significant issues are clear from this analysis: (i)All the major terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems in NPT have INNS in them. (ii)Cotoneaster, Himalayan Balsam and Japanese Knotweed are represented in more than half of these habitats while Buddleia and Rhododendron are also widely distributed. (iii)Urban habitats contain the most INNS and are likely to be the source of INNS in other habitats. For example a number of Cotoneaster species have spread from amenity planting on industrial estates, parks and gardens. Rhododendron has also spread uncontrollably in areas like Margam Park. (iv)Of the remaining habitats, coastal ecosystems supports the most INNS, e.g. Crymlyn Burrows. Species Woodland Heathland and Moorland Semi-Natural Grassland Open Mosaic Enclosed Farmland Urban Freshwater Wetland Inland Rock and Cliff Coastal Sitka Spruce x x Sea Buckthorn x x Rhododendron x x x x x Parrot's Feathers x x Nuttal's/ Canadian Pondweed x x New Zealand Pigmyweed x x Michaelmas Daisy x x Japanese Rose x x x Japanese Knotweed x x x x x Holm Oak x x Himalayan Honeysuckle x x x Himalayan Balsam x x x x x x Garden Lady's-Mantle x x Curly Waterweed x x Cotoneaster x x x x x x Canadian Goldenrod x x Buddleia x x x x

NPT is characterised by: (i) a coastal region which lies west of the M4 Motorway and curves around the eastern part of Swansea Bay from Crymlyn Burrows to the Kenfig rivermouth, (ii) 3 main river valleys, the Neath (Nedd), Afan and Upper Tawe, and (iii) an extensive upland landscape. Landscape and Geology NPT is characterised by: (i) a coastal region which lies west of the M4 Motorway and curves around the eastern part of Swansea Bay from Crymlyn Burrows to the Kenfig rivermouth, (ii) 3 main river valleys, the Neath (Nedd), Afan and Upper Tawe, and (iii) an extensive upland landscape which rises to 660m on Craig y Llyn, the highest point in the county. Its central feature is the Vale of Neath which divides the county conveniently into northern and southern sectors: The southern sector is extensively wooded with conifer forests but also contains large blocks of deciduous woodlands such as those between Briton Ferry and Baglan. Most of the natural features of its coastal strip, which once included pristine dunes and wetlands, have been altered by industrial development. Near Resolven, the north-west facing flank of the Vale of Neath is drained by some significant streams such as the Melincwrt Brook, whose valleys supports significant assemblages of lower plants. Much of the Afan Valley which lies between Pontrhydyfen and Abergwynfi was mined for coal before it was afforested with conifers. The largely rural northern sector includes the Clydach, Dulais and upper Tawe valleys. It contains the large conifer plantations of Crynant and Rheola and a number of ancient woodlands such as Maesmelin and Dyffryn Woods, Craig Gwladys, Tyn yr Heol Woods and Cwm Du Glen. The waterfall valleys of the Pyrddin and lower Nedd Fechan which occur along the border between NPT and Powys are part of the internationally important Celtic Rainforest and Atlantic woodland ecosystems that define the headstreams of the River Neath. Much of the landscape of the northern sector is dominated by heathland and moorland and most of the county’s Common Land and species-rich marshy grasslands are found here. The geology of NPT is dominated by the South Wales Coalfield. Its most prominent rock outcrops, such as those of Craig y Llyn, are formed of sandstone. Calcareous outcrops are almost completely absent from NPT but there is a minor influence of carboniferous limestone near Rhyd yr Fro. Rocks of the Millstone Grit series are found in the waterfall valleys of the Nedd Fechan and Pyrddin near Breconshire.

The sound of screaming swifts has long signalled the arrival of summer in the UK. Migrating to our towns and cities in May, these stunning and agile birds are an iconic summer visitor. Unfortunately, like many of our other species, our swifts are struggling. Help us to help swifts in NPT. Swifts in NPT Help us record swifts in Neath Port Talbot! These charismatic birds visit our towns in the summer, migrating all the way from Africa. They rely on us for nesting sites, squeezing through tiny gaps in roofs to raise their chicks. But building renovation is causing nest sites to disappear. This, as well as declining insect numbers, has caused swifts in the UK to decline by 60% between 1995 and 2020. Submitting your swift sighting helps us monitor the local population, identify nest sites and locate where nest boxes could be fitted. Swift sightings in NPT Swifts can sometimes be confused with other similar-looking birds, namely swallows, house martins and sand martins. Here are some key features to look out for to help you tell them apart: Submit swift records Name Email What3Words for sighting* Number of swifts What was the swift(s) doing?* If entering or leaving a building, please let us know the exact location of the building (What3Words) and if there is any building work taking place there. Any other comments? By checking this box you agree that NPT LNP can forward this information to the NPT Swift group. Your data will be handled in line with our privacy policy * Are you happy for us to contact you about your sighting if we need further information? * Submit How you can help swifts Put up a swift box If you are able to, putting a swift box or two up on your property can be a great practical way to help your local swifts. Record your sightings If you see a swift, let us know where it was so we can keep an eye on the populations in NPT. Use the form above to do so. Raise community awareness Tell your friends and family about the plight of our swifts and how they can help. Why not encourage your neighbours to put up boxes and create a swift street?

Do you, your group or organisation have an idea that could positively impact nature and the local community in your area? If the answer is yes, we’d love to hear from you! We have grant funding available for projects that contribute to long-term nature recovery in Neath Port Talbot. This has been funded by the Welsh Government Local Places for Nature Fund. Continue reading below to find out more. NPT LNP Grant Fund 2025/2026 Do you, your group or organisation have an idea that could positively impact nature and the local community in your area? If the answer is yes, we’d love to hear from you! We have grant funding available for projects that contribute to long-term nature recovery in Neath Port Talbot. This has been funded by the Welsh Government Local Places for Nature Fund. Continue reading below to find out more. Key Grant Criteria: The grant scheme funds capital costs only – this means no revenue costs can be included such as staff/volunteer time and venue hire Applications can be for up to £10,000 The project location must be accessible to members of the public in order to receive grant funding. This can be for part of the year, or all year round, including only open for events Applicants should indicate how their project will deliver lasting benefits for biodiversity and how it improves local’s access to nature, especially if ongoing management will be required after grant funding is spent Recipients must agree to maintain the project outcomes for a minimum period of 5 years at their own cost, as a criteria of funding from the Welsh Government Details on the full criteria can be found in the application form. Items that do not qualify for funding include: Non-native planting Signage Landscaping, including gravel Patio slabs Fencing Benches and seating Revenue costs including staff/volunteer time and venue hire For further details and to apply, please click below to download the application form: If you have any questions or to submit an application form, please email us. Application window is open until Friday 10th October at 12pm. Application Form

Join the NPT Local Nature Partnership by subscribing to our mailing list. You'll receive news and updates about upcoming meetings and events. Join the LNP Sign up to receive NPT nature news and updates. This will add you to the NPT LNP mailing list, which you can unsubscribe from at any time. Organisation (if applicable) Which mailing list would you like to join? * Required NPT for Nature (community action for nature) Full LNP Mailing List (professional, policy, NRAP etc.) I have read and understood the Privacy Policy Subscribe Thanks for joining us! How you can help Volunteer with us Follow us

NPT for Wildlife is a sub-group for the NPT Local Nature Partnership, which is aimed at engaging with enthusiastic community groups and individuals that want to make a difference for nature in NPT, but perhaps need a hand to get going. NPT for Nature NPT for Nature is a sub-group for the NPT Local Nature Partnership, which is aimed at engaging with enthusiastic community groups and individuals that want to make a difference for nature in NPT, but perhaps need a hand to get going. We meet once every 3 months to discuss our important species and habitats in NPT, provide advice to anyone looking to start a project, and give ideas for activities and events that you can organise or participate in with your communities. It’s also a great place to connect with other people in NPT who care about nature and make some new friends! If you are interested in learning more about Welsh wildlife and ecology, want to meet like-minded people in your area or get involved in volunteering locally, please come along to our next meeting! PREVIOUS MEETINGS SUBSCRIBE Sign up to receive NPT nature news and updates. This will add you to the NPT LNP mailing list, which you can unsubscribe from at any time. Which mailing list would you like to join? * Required NPT for Nature (community action for nature) Full LNP Mailing List (professional, policy, NRAP etc.) I have read and understood the Privacy Policy Subscribe Thanks for joining us!

Check out this page to find out about nature and wildlife events, volunteering and activities in Neath Port Talbot, South Wales. These events are run by the Local Nature Partnership and its members. What's On Upcoming Nature Events in NPT 07 Dec 2025, 11:00 – 16:00 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! 14 Jan 2026, 19:10 – 21:00 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. 11 Mar 2026, 19:10 – 21:00 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 ... 15 Apr 2026, 19:10 – 21:00 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. 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. Working with Nature NPT Nature activities and volunteering across NPT. 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.

The NPT Local Nature Partnership (NPT LNP) is made up of representatives from a wide range of organisations plus individuals with an interest in local wildlife and land management. Membership is open to anyone with a genuine interest in biodiversity and wildlife conservation in NPT. NPT Local Nature Partnership The NPT Local Nature Partnership (NPT LNP) is made up of representatives from a wide range of organisations plus individuals with an interest in local wildlife and land management. Membership is open to anyone with an interest in biodiversity and wildlife conservation in NPT. What is a Local Nature Partnership? 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. Wherever possible, we take an evidence-based approach to facilitate this through our presence on strategic steering groups and by providing advice to community councils. NPT LNP is responsible for the assessment of the State of Nature in NPT , which will be reviewed every five years. Actions related to the Nature Recovery Action Plan will be reviewed each year in the spring meeting of the NPT LNP. Our Aims To protect existing habitats, restore former habitats and where appropriate create new habitats. To halt the loss of biodiversity in NPT and increase habitat and ecosystem resilience. To educate people about the importance of wildlife habitats and conserve the flora and fauna they contain. To influence and encourage activities that are more sensitive to the needs of local biodiversity. To advise on appropriate actions that will conserve, protect and enhance biodiversity in NPT. Our Partners Friends of Neath Abbey Ironworks Glamorgan Bat Group A new look for npt lnp! We’re excited to unveil the new logo for the Neath Port Talbot Local Nature Partnership ! This design reflects the unique character of our county—where industrial heritage meets natural beauty. The logo brings together elements of our rich history and the vibrant landscapes we work to protect, symbolizing the harmony between people, wildlife, and place. Our aim was to create a visual identity that celebrates both the resilience of nature and the community’s commitment to cons nptlnp 🌿 Nature Unearthed at Margam Country Park – A Day to Remember! 🌞 We had a fantastic time at the Nature Unearthed event on Sunday 13 July 2025 , at the stunning Margam Country Park . The weather... nptlnp Return of the Ponds at Gnoll Country Park! Visitors to Gnoll Country Park may have noticed the transformation of a wetland area of the park. Over the last 15 years, the ponds that... nptlnp News

Resources for Educators Below we have some resources specific to Neath Port Talbot. Educators are welcome to use them to teach children about our amazing nature. Button Button Button Button Button