RSPB Ynys-hir

Story

Ynys-hir RSPB reserve is a nature reserve of the RSPB situated beside the Dyfi estuary in Ceredigion, mid Wales between Aberystwyth and Machynlleth. The reserve covers 550 hectares and includes a variety of habitats extending inland from mudflats and salt marsh through farmland and pools to oak woodland and hillside scrub. Facilities include a small visitor centre and seven hides.Ynys-hir pronounced (ənɨ̞s-hir) according to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) and meaning "Long Island" in Welsh. The name refers to a wooded ridge which was once surrounded by marshland.The area was a private estate until it was bought by the RSPB and became a reserve in 1970.WildlifeBreeding birds include important numbers of waders such as lapwing and redshank. Little egrets have recently joined grey herons in the heronry. The woodlands hold redstart, wood warbler and pied flycatcher while red kites frequently pass overhead.