SN550039

Troserch Woods have recently been returned to public ownership and are managed by the Troserch Woodlands Society www.troserchwoodlands.co.uk

Description and habitats

A secluded and unspoiled woodland with areas of coniferous plantation and young deciduous trees. The Morlais river runs through the site.

Directions

Drive to the Troserch Roundabout on the A4138 between Trostre and M4 junction 48. At the roundabout, take the exit for Allt. Go through the village and continue on the single-track road until you come to a junction. Turn right and about ½ mile (1 km) further on there is a small off-road car park on your right. at SN545042. The site is not served by public transport.

Facilities for visitors

There are none. This site is not suitable for anyone with restricted mobility.

Tips for birding the site

There is a good network of permissive paths through the wood, although the surface of the paths is rough in many places. The route described here takes in both types of woodland and the river. Two paths start at the car park. Take the left-hand one which goes downhill through an area of birch trees and then enters the plantation. Where the path divides, take the left-hand fork and descend to the delightful and secluded valley of the Morlais river. Cross the footbridge and use the river-side paths to explore upstream and downstream. Return to the original path and take the other fork towards the south end of the wood. The wood soon becomes more open and the conifers are replaced by saplings of birch and oak.

Best seasons

Spring. Also of interest in autumn and winter.

Regular birds

Troserch Woods have not received much attention from birders in the past so there are few records. However, the recent change in ownership and the planned management of the woodland for wildlife should increase the number and diversity of birds at this site. At present, visitors can expect to see a range of breeding resident and migrant woodland birds and, in winter, flocks of finches and tits may be encountered. Woodcock have been seen in autumn and Goshawk have bred here. The habitat is suitable for woodpeckers (Lesser Spotted Woodpecker has been seen) and Tawny Owls. The river is in a clean condition and has good populations of Dipper and Grey Wagtail.