SN290297

Rhos Pwllygawnen is an SSSI

Description and habitats

Originally “rhos” pasture (damp, acidic, flower-rich grassland), Rhos Pwllygawnen has now become degraded apparently by lack of grazing. There is extensive infiltration by gorse, willow and rowan, much of which is dense. Heather and bramble thicket have replaced much of the pasture although small areas do remain. However, these changes may, for a time, increase the complexity of the avifauna at the site, so this is still a place worth visiting.

Directions

Travelling west from Carmarthen on the A40, take the B4298 to Meidrim. At Meidrim, turn right onto the B4299 towards Trelech. About 1 mile (1.5 km) before reaching Trelech, turn right at a wide road junction (there are no direction signs at the junction). About ½ mile (800 m) along this single-track road there is a parking place at SN291296. There are infrequent buses between Carmarthen and Trelech (First Cymru service 225).

Facilities for visitors

There are none at the site. Pubs in Trelech and Meidrim. The site is not suitable for anyone with restricted mobility.

Tips for birding the site

Walk to the crossroad ahead of you and explore in each direction. The site is private so only observe from the roadside. A telescope may be useful.

Best seasons

Spring

Regular birds

Birds of scrub and rough pasture. There is a scarcity of records from the site but breeding Curlew, Linnet, Whinchat and Grasshopper Warbler have been recorded in the past.

Scarce and rare birds

A Quail was found in 1997