Article from Brecon Beacons National Park
Last Updated: 17 April 2008 09:36
Biodiversity in the National Park
The biodiversity and landscapes that exist in the National Park today are the result of thousands of years of human use interacting with natural processes. A stunning variety of habitats can be found in National Park, from the exposed open moors of the uplands, to the gravel strewn beds of the river Usk. This variety provides homes for thousands of species, some of which are found no where else on Earth.
- Our management of the land over centuries has modified and encouraged the development of some of these habitats.
- Our grasslands are so extensive only because we have encouraged their development as a means of feeding livestock.
- Our woodlands have been changed by cutting, removing timber and replanting.
- Our rivers and wetlands have been altered by drainage and flood defences.
- Our urban areas provide an artificial environment that some species have become accustomed to living in.
The environment of the National Park is a semi-natural landscape, one formed of natural systems but influenced by mankinds management of the land. The fact that the Park is a "cultural landscape" is important to remember as the management of the Park's environment involves close working with the people who live and work in the Park.
Use the navigation on the left to explore different groups of habitats within the National Park.
Want to get our an enjoy the National Parks wildlife? Why not go on a Brecknock Wildlife Trust event or find other wild places to visit in the National Park.