A popular Welsh nature reserve is intended to expand and restore a rainforest.
The Wildlife Trusts of South and West Wales (WTSWW) are a project in cooperation with Aviva to restore a moderate rainforest next to the Teifi Marshes nature reserve that borders on Cardigan.
The reserve in which the Welsh wildlife visitor center is located will now contain the adjacent Coed Pentwd in Abererteifi.
The restoration of the forests is part of a wider vision to bring back lost habitats and create a landscape that is more resistant to climate change.
The Teifi swamps are one of the top moisture areas in Wales and accommodate Otters, ice fish and are often also visited by Osprreys.
The terrain is a patchwork of different habitats, including open pastures, hedges, alder and pasture Carr, oak forests, freshwater swamp and tidal sludge benches.
It is used as an expansion to this reserve, which benefits from the species present and contributes to buffing the existing habitats.
The area of 23.9 hectares (59.1 acres) borders on the Afon Piliau, a tributary of the Teifi river.
The forest edges of the river offer excellent opportunities for the expansion of forests.
It is expected that 21 hectares are set up new forests by both plants and natural regeneration.
Sarah Kessell, managing director of the WTSWW, said: “We are very happy to bring rainforests back to West Wales, especially in the popular Welsh Wildlife Center.
“This fabulous nature reserve combines countless people all year round with nature and is of great importance for both the local community and tourists.
“The expansion of the rainforest areas here restore natural corridors that benefit wild animals and give this breathtaking corner of Wales more natural beauty.”
Claudine Blamey, Chief Sustainability Officer at Aviva, said: “At Aviva, we understand that investing in nature is not just about maintaining beautiful landscapes, but also about creating a sustainable future for everyone.
“By supporting the restoration of Celtic rainforests, we contribute to building up resistance to climate change, protecting important ecosystems and reducing the risk of flooding in nearby houses and companies and helping North Pembrokeshire to prepare for the future.”