Conserving Dyffryn’s Ancient Woodland for Biodiversity

Dyffryn Woods is 116 hectare (228 acre) ancient semi natural woodland (ASNW) and planted ancient woodland site (PAWS). The project is for PAWS restoration by the thinning and removal of conifers to ensure natural regeneration of the native broadleaf trees such as oak, birch, and ash. Additionally rideside coppicing of trees and shrubs will create sunnier conditions for a diversity of woodland flowers, butterflies, beetle and other woodland invertebrates.

By the control and eradiation of rhododendron and Himalayan balsam, which is a serious ecological threat to Dyffryn Wood, this ancient wood will be able to breathe, wildlife will thrive and nativs trees and herbs will flourish.

Although nearly 14% of Wales is wooded only 2.5% is ancient woodland, yet, this rare and precious habitat supports over 50% of the UK’s species, many found nowhere else.