Monthly Visit: No. 5

Again, there are many potential places that would constitute a full monthly visit post. Plus, I have recently come into the possession of a new camera - a Sony Alpha A7 RIV, so pictures are of a better quality, with the increase of resolution among many more improvements. A full review of the camera is underway, so watch this space for that.

The first notable place is the Wye Valley, ranging from the area just north of Chepstow, to the small town of Tintern.

The view from Wintour’s Leap, situated in the village of Broadrock, north of Chepstow

The second place was the North Meadow, near Cricklade - a National Nature Reserve. It is a traditionally managed lowland hay-meadow, and is grazed in common between 12th August and 12th February each year, and cut for hay no earlier than 1st July. This pattern of land use and management has existed for many centuries and has resulted in the grasses, herbs, flowers, and a wide range of fauna inhabiting the site.

Over 250 species of plants occur in the meadow, but it is of particular note, as it holds by far the largest British population of the snake’s-head fritillary. The 500,000 fritillaries which flower each year account for 80% of the British population.

This particular plant below, is Sanguisorba Officinalis, or more commonly known as great burnet. It is a herbaceous perennial plant growing up to 1m tall, occurring in grasslands and grassy banks. It flowers in June or July. The plant is an important food for European large blue butterflies, which also appear in this meadow.

And the third place is the Avon Gorge, near to Bristol. Home to Leigh Woods, also a National Nature Reserve.

The Avon Gorge in Bristol, UK, is a remarkable site of biological and geological interest. The gorge's flora and fauna have developed over thousands of years, providing habitats for many unique species, some of which are rare and protected.

Flora:

Avon Gorge is famous for its range of unique and rare plants. The gorge's limestone cliffs are home to over 30 species of plants that are rare and notable in the UK, including Bristol onion (Allium sphaerocephalon ssp. Sphaerocephalon), Bristol rock-cress (Arabis scabra), and the Bristol whitebeam (Sorbus bristoliensis), a tree species that is unique to the gorge.

The cliffs and the areas around them also host various species of orchids, like the Autumn Lady's Tresses (Spiranthes spiralis). You'll also find a range of common plants including various types of grass, ivy, holly, and ferns.

Fauna:

The Avon Gorge is home to a wide range of fauna. One of the most well-known animal inhabitants of the Avon Gorge is the peregrine falcon, one of the fastest birds in the world. The cliffs of the gorge provide perfect nesting sites for these majestic birds of prey.

The gorge is also a habitat for several types of bats, such as the lesser horseshoe bat, greater horseshoe bat, and the pipistrelle bat. It also houses badgers, foxes, and a variety of small mammals.

In terms of invertebrates, there are many unique species of beetles, spiders, and other insects that have made their home in the Avon Gorge. Some of these are quite rare, adding to the scientific interest in the gorge's biodiversity.

Lastly, the River Avon that flows through the gorge hosts a variety of fish species, including the European eel, and it serves as a route for Atlantic salmon migrating upstream to spawn.

All in all, the Avon Gorge provides a crucial habitat for a wide array of species, both common and rare, and is an important site for biodiversity in the UK.

The River Avon flowing through the Avon Gorge, from the vantage point of Leigh Woods

But, it’s the Wye Valley that takes the main focus for this Monthly Visit. Packed full of dramatic landscapes and unique flowers, it is a crucial part of the ecosystem.

The Wye Valley, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) straddling the border between England and Wales, is a haven for an incredibly diverse array of flora and fauna. The steep limestone gorge, fertile floodplains, and ancient woodlands provide a variety of habitats, each hosting unique species.

Flora:

The Wye Valley is particularly noted for its ancient woodlands, with a mix of deciduous and evergreen trees. The woodlands contain a variety of trees such as oak, ash, beech, and yew, along with conifers including Scots pine, and Douglas fir. In spring, these woodlands come alive with a spectacular display of bluebells.

Notable plant species in the Wye Valley include the rare whitebeam (Sorbus subcuneata), which is endemic to the lower Wye Valley. Also, the valley is one of the few British habitats of the endangered lesser butterfly-orchid (Platanthera bifolia).

The valley also houses a variety of ferns, lichens, and mosses due to its humid microclimate, contributing to its lush green appearance.

Fauna:

The Wye Valley is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. A diverse range of mammals can be found here, including otters, badgers, foxes, and several species of bats. The dormouse, a protected species in the UK, is also present here.

The River Wye is known for its salmon, trout, and other freshwater fish, making it a key location for angling. It also has significant populations of water birds such as kingfishers, herons, and various types of ducks.

The valley is also a haven for birdwatchers, as it is home to a variety of bird species. Peregrine falcons and buzzards can be spotted soaring above, while woodpeckers, owls, and various songbirds inhabit the woodland areas.

In terms of invertebrates, the Wye Valley supports a rich diversity of butterflies, with over half of the UK's butterfly species found here, along with numerous other insects.

The Wye Valley is a region of exceptional natural beauty and a rich, diverse habitat. It remains a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and is an important region for the conservation of many species.

Starting from the village of Tintern, the river continues to wind its way through the valley.

Tintern, with Tintern Abbey in the background

Following Tintern, the river reaches Wyndcliff, and it is here, situated next to Chepstow Racecourse, lies the Giant’s Cave, which offers a lovely view down towards the village of Lancaut and Wintour’s Leap.

The view from the Giant’s Cave

Located very slightly to the south of Wintour’s Leap, lies Woodcroft Quarry. The quarry offers views such as these towards Chepstow, with the beginnings of Chepstow School just visible.

The view from Woodcroft Quarry