Bryn and Cwmavon
Bryn Tip is designated as an LNR. This former coal tip now contains dry, species rich grassland with a large stand of Gorse. The habitats that have formed on colliery spoil have recently been identified as being particularly good for wildlife, including being home to the millipede Turdulisoma cf turdulorum which was found new to science in 2017. Major waterways include the rivers Afan and Ffrwd Wyllt. A number of SINCs are found in the ward, including Cwmafan Green Corridor. A number of grassland areas in Cwmavon are managed under NPT Bee Friendly, such as the Rolling Mill and Pen-y-Banc.
The Gorse at Bryn Tip is excellent for breeding birds such as Stonechat and Linnet. Grasslands support Dark green fritillary butterflies and at Bryn Tip, a huge population of Bee Orchids. The mix of upland habitats can support mammals such as Brown hare, Hedgehog and Badger. The river valleys are important sites for Otter, Dipper and foraging bats. The colliery spoil sites are great places to look for unusual invertebrates.
Actions
- Encourage constituents to volunteer with the Afan Environment Volunteers or Bryn Residents Action group to help manage important wildlife sites in the ward.
- The River Afan has issues with invasive non-native plant species which you can help tackle by organising balsam bashes.
- Look for locations for NPT Bee Friendly management around the ward i.e. sites where flowers would grow if mowing was paused for the summer
