Birders of a feather flock together at Dinas

A panoramic view of RSPB Gwenffrwd Dinas

Yesterday was one of those days that’ll live long in the memory – not just for the birds, but for the brilliant company and the magic of ancient woodland alive with the sights and sounds of spring.

Paul Joy and I bumped into several of our South Wales Birder friends during a day out at the magnificent RSPB Gwenffrwd Dinas. Nestled deep in the heart of rural Carmarthenshire, this reserve is one of those hidden gems where time seems to slow down, and the soundtrack is pure birdsong.

One of our main target species was  Wood Warblers, and they proved to be a challenge to find and photograph. These stunning little birds did not disappoint once we found them. Photographing one of them in the dappled light filtering through the canopy was both a challenge and a pleasure.

A Wood Warbler singing its little heart out.

Wood Warbler foraging among the leaves of an Oak Tree.

On a number of occasions we saw Pied Flycatchers, the monochrome beauties that return each year to breed in the nest boxes peppered throughout the reserve and tree holes. Males were busily flitting through the trees, often pausing just long enough to let us grab a few frames. Their sharp calls and fluttering displays brought the woodland to life.

Pied Flycatcher (Male)

Pied Flycatcher singing.

A delightful surprise was Spotted Flycatchers, darting gracefully from perch to perch in the glades. Less common and often more retiring than their pied cousins, it was a real treat to watch them perform their aerial acrobatics, chasing down midges above a small clearing. Moments like these are what we live for as wildlife photographers and birders.

Spotted Flycatcher eying the sky under the leaf canopy of insects.

A singing Spotted Flycatcher - a first for me to see one singing.

But it wasn’t just the birds that took centre stage. The ancient woodland here is a spectacle in itself. Gwenffrwd Dinas is part of a rare remnant of Atlantic oak woodland, often referred to as Celtic rainforest, rich in lichens, mosses, and ferns, thanks to the clean air and constant moisture.

At this time of year, the forest floor is carpeted with a sea of bluebells, a vivid sapphire understorey that seems to glow in the sunlight. Bluebells are a key indicator species of ancient woodland, and walking among them felt like stepping into a living painting. The scent was heavenly – that sweet, heady aroma that always signals the true arrival of spring.

The woodland is absolutely amazing.

Paul taking a rest.

The reserve also holds a deep history, with nearby Twm Sion Cati’s cave, where the legendary Welsh folk hero, often referred to as the "Welsh Robin Hood ", hid out, adding a touch of legend to the landscape. Nature and story blend seamlessly here, and it’s no wonder so many of us return again and again.

As the day wore on, our SD cards filled with images, our feet aching from walking, and our hearts full. More than just a birding trip, it was a reminder of the joy that comes from sharing nature with like-minded souls.

A flock of South Wales birders.

Massive thanks to Paul for his company and driving. It was also great to meet up with the other birders who made the day so special. Gwenffrwd Dinas, you’ve done it again.