THREE new wildlife walks in and around Rhayader were unveiled at the Old School in Cwmdauddwr on Sunday, July 3.
Rhayader 2000, in partnership with Rhayader by Nature and the Radnorshire Wildlife Trust, has been busy over designing the way-marked walks, which range from a leisurely one-and-a-quarter mile stroll around Waun Capel Parc to slightly more arduous five and six mile walks.
Information boards and benches have been placed along the routes allowing walkers to enjoy some spectacular views.
The launch was very well attended and there were displays and information about all of the organisations involved in the project.
The children had the chance to go on a treasure hunt or make their own wildlife badges while everyone enjoyed the home made cakes.
“The area has a rich abundance of wildlife and these walks take in every kind of habitat, giving walkers the chance to see an enormous range of animal and plant life,” said local wildlife expert Richard Knight, who led a group around the Cwmdauddwr route.
These walks weren’t just created for visitors but are there for all to enjoy, added Rhayader 2000 development officer Pam Knight.
“We are blessed with a wonderful environment and we hope local people will get out and enjoy the walks and learn about the wildlife on our doorstep,” she said.
Leaflets describing the walks and what can be seen are available from The Arches in West Street and shops and pubs in the town.
The project has received financial support from Big Lottery Awards for All, Countryside Council for Wales and Powys County Council’s Community Welcome Scheme and Community Enablement Support Fund.
Rhayader 2000 and Rhayader by Nature have also been working with landowners to enhance wildlife habitats, provide nesting boxes for birds and bees and roosting boxes for bats.
Rhayader by Nature is now in the second year of its Wildlife and Natural Heritage Survey, which aims to identify all of the wildlife species within a six kilometre radius of the town clock.
• Everyone is welcome to join in the survey and no wildlife knowledge is necessary as there are experts on hand as well as books, leaflets and study equipment. The next field meeting will be held on Sunday, July 17 at the Gilfach Nature Reserve. Meet at Marteg Bridge at 10am. There are also a series of fortnightly Mystery Sorties to further explore the range of habitats for the Natural Heritage Survey. The next Sortie is on Thursday, July 14. Meet at the Dark Lane car park at 7pm. For more information call 01597 811169.