Wales · five wildlife sites

Nature reserves & wildlife sites in Swansea

Explore these places for wildlife in Swansea. Seasonal notes suggest when to look; sightings are not guaranteed.

01 / 05

Oxwich National Nature Reserve

Near Oxwich.

Habitat: Coastal dunes, freshwater lakes, marshes and woodland lie behind a broad sandy beach.
Wildlife to look for: Small blue butterfly (late spring–summer), hairy dragonfly (late spring–early summer), water rail, little grebe, moorhen.

02 / 05

Near Swansea, beside Bonymaen.

Habitat: An extensive lowland fen supports reedbeds, sedge beds and open water.
Wildlife to look for: Reed warbler (spring–summer), sedge warbler (spring–summer), Cetti’s warbler, water rail, fen raft spider (rarely seen).

03 / 05

Near Craig-cefn-parc.

Habitat: Broadleaved woodland follows a steep valley with a fast-flowing river and tributary streams.
Wildlife to look for: Dipper, grey wagtail, pied flycatcher (spring–summer), wood warbler (spring–summer), redstart (spring–summer).

04 / 05

Near Llanmadoc, via Cwm Ivy.

Habitat: Restored tidal saltmarsh contains shallow pools, creeks and open feeding areas for waterbirds.
Wildlife to look for: Little egret, grey heron, kingfisher, lapwing.

05 / 05

Near Overton.

Habitat: Limestone sea cliffs support coastal grassland, heath, scrub and rocky slopes.
Wildlife to look for: Stonechat, linnet, meadow pipit, oystercatcher (along the shore), green tiger beetle (spring–summer).