GLANNAU YNYS GYBI - HOLYHEAD COAST SSSI

(click on a square to view the map)

This spectacular coastal area is noted for its biological, botanical and ornithlogical value - as well as its superb scenery - the highlight of the Anglesey Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The folded rocks around South Stack lighthouse - visible the long steps down to the footbridge - are a revelation and provide nesting ledges for a large colony of guillemots, razorbills and a few puffins. The "mountain" and the separate area of Penrhosfeilw Common suppport one of the largest tracts of coastal atlantic heathland in Wales, with silver studded blue butterfly, chough and spotted rock rose. Despite a programme of controlled fires, wildfires sometimes rip through these area leading to the gradual impoverishment of the flora and fauna, and requires the restoration of light grazing to reduce the fuel litter. There is open public access over much of the area.

Glannau Ynys Gybi SSSI, along with Tre Wilmot SSSI, forms the Glannau Ynys Gybi  Special Area of Conservation (SAC) for its sea cliffs and coastal heaths.

Glannau Ynys Gybii SSSI, Trewilmot SSSI and Glannau Rhoscolyn SSSI encompass the Glannau Ynys Gybi Special Protection Area SPA for its breeding chough.

Anglesey map

SSSI Citation

Potentially Damaging Operations list

Site Management Statement

Special Area of Conservation (SAC)

Special Protection Area (SPA)

Aerial Photograph

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