SN326076

Carmarthen Bay is a Special Area of Conservation and a Special Protection Area.

Description and Habitats

There are three habitats at this site all of which attract birds during autumn and winter. Inter-tidal sands off Ginst Point and along the coast west of the point (Pendine Sands) has feeding and roosting gulls and waders. At the point itself, extensive scrub with sea-buckthorn attracts finches and other passerines. Inland, wet fields of rough pasture are used by large flocks of Golden Plover and Lapwing.

Directions

The coast between Ginst Point and Pendine is a weapons testing range operated by Qinetiq. Access by the public to Ginst Point and Pendine beach is permitted on days when the range is not in use which is often the case on Saturdays and Sundays. It is possible to find out if access is allowed by phoning Qinetiq Security Service (01944 452310) but this information cannot be given in advance.

From the A4066 about 1 mile (1.5 km) west of Laugharne, turn at the sign for Hurst House Hotel  and continue straight ahead to the gatehouse at the entrance to the range. Turn left and follow the road to Ginst Point. There are two car parks at the end of the road, close to the beach. There is no public transport.

Safety

Red flags are flown on all roads and paths when the range is in use. Access is absolutely prohibited at these times. Inside the range, signs warning the public not to cross fences, gates and barriers must be respected at all times. Unexploded ordnance may be present. If you see an unusual object, do not touch it. Note its location and phone Qinetiq Security Service (01944 452310).

Facilities for visitors

Nearest visitor services are in Laugharne. Wheelchair access to the beach at Ginst point is possible. A wooden ramp has been installed at the second car park. It leads to a surfaced track and then to a concrete apron at the beach. Disabled birders may also be able to search for lapwing and golden plover from a car.

Tips for birding the site

Birds on the beach and sandbanks may be out of telescope range at low tide so it is best to visit within 2 or 3 hours either side of high tide. The largest concentration of birds is usually on the sand spit north-east of Ginst Point. Search the scrub near the car park and on the dunes for flocks of passerines. There are numerous places on the road between the point and the entrance gatehouse where a car can be parked while scanning the fields for Lapwing, Golden Plover and Greylag.

Best seasons

Winter

Regular birds

Cormorant, Greylag, Shelduck, Golden Plover, Ringed Plover, Lapwing, Oystercatcher, Bar-tailed Godwit, Black-tailed Godwit, Curlew, Dunlin, Sanderling, Gulls, Meadow Pipit, Stonechat, Goldfinch, Linnet, Chaffinch

Scarce and rare birds

Red-throated Diver, Hen Harrier, Merlin.