For day two of Wales Biodiversity Week (and day 5 of 30 Days Wild, which I am also following – more information on that Wildlife Trust initiative here) – I went for a wander around one of my local nature reserves, Nant Fawr Woodlands. Established as a green corridor by Cardiff City Council in 1993 and following the Nant Fawr stream from Roath Park Lake to Llanishen Reservoir, the woodlands are managed by a group of local conservation-minded residents, ‘The Friends of Nant Fawr’.

As well as two parcels of woodland harbouring some magnificent old trees, the area also includes three ancient meadows, once part of Rhyd-y-blewn farm, which are valuable habitats for wildflowers and the insects that thrive on them. The Friends are part of the Cardiff Biodiversity Partnership, have a well-developed biodiversity action plan, and manage the woodlands and meadows in accordance with agreed guidelines to conserve and enhance this wonderful environment.

It’s a wonderful place for a ramble, taking you from city to countryside, with much to enjoy along the way.