What steps is the Minister taking to prevent the likely local extinction of curlew and black grouse on land managed by the RSPB at Lake Vyrnwy?
I and my predecessors have shown active support for Gylfinir Cymru, which is a partnership of stakeholders concerned about the survival and population recovery of the curlew. RSPB is an active partner of the group.
Our National Peatland Action Programme (NPAP) to restore peatlands will improve the habitat for birds like curlews, which like to nest in open ground. Under the NPAP, the RSPB has restored 39ha of peatlands at Llyn Efyrnwy. Details of which may be found in the National Peatland Action Programme: Year 2 Report 2021-2022 (cyfoethnaturiol.cymru). Further peatland restoration works funded through the NPAP are ongoing this financial year.
Under different regimes bird population numbers can vary, but officials have seen no evidence to date that RSPB’s approach at Lake Efyrnwy and elsewhere in Wales is detrimental to natural levels of Curlew or Black Grouse. I support all nature conservations measures that comply with regulations and yields positive outcomes. Approaches that deliver wider benefits while benefitting curlew are particularly welcome.