The last remaining breeding site for Little Terns in Wales is on the shingle spits of Gronant, Denbighshire. The adult birds start arriving from their wintering grounds off the coast of West Africa early in May and have left again by mid- August. Around 250 chicks have been hatched this season which is a record for the site. The peak of the season has now past and fledging is in full swing and preparations being made for the journey south. The site has been closely protected and monitored for many years, previously by the RSPB and more recently by Denbighshire County Council. Extensive electric fences protect nests from foxes etc while public access is restricted by rope barriers and signage. There is a considerable warden presence. There is a great variety of bird life and wild flowers to be found. Take a scope if you have one. Photographers please note that this is a Schedule 1 protected species.
The site is among sand dunes and shingle ridges with little shelter from the elements. Blazing sunshine can give way to chilling sea mist which can roll in within seconds. There is no shelter from rain and wind. No ‘facilities’.
Directions
From Two Mills take the Welsh Road (A550). At the traffic lights take the left hand lane for A548 (Flint Bridge). Keep on A548 through Flint and 13 miles further on and shortly after passing the roundabout for Talacre take a right turn down Shore Road (signposted Lower Gronant). 200 yds and on the left is a public car park with yellow height barriers. Park here where we will meet at 10.00hrs. (In case you miss the group) We will walk further, and over the railway bridge we turn left onto a signed footpath. Turn right shortly, over a bridge which spans Prestatyn Gutter. Follow the well marked track to a long boardwalk which leads to the site.
SatNav for Gronant Car Park LL19 9SS
Visitors are very welcome to join us on the day.