Discover Coed Môr

Under the hustle and bustle of the Britannia bridge lies a harmonious woodland on the shores of the Menai Strait. Awaken your senses as you explore the woven paths of Coed Môr.

Red Squirrels

The famous red squirrel can be seen in the woods of Coed Môr. Classed as endangered in Wales, it is on rare occasions that they’re seen in the wild. If you’re patient, you might see one either during the morning or early afternoon when they’re most active. Red squirrels are shy and spend a lot of time in the canopies. Watch out for scratch marks on bark, and pine cones that have been bitten and resemble apple cores. Listen out for their ‘chuck-chuck’ noises and in the early spring, keep an eye out for their courtship rituals in the treetops.

Red squirrels often give birth to their young, known as kittens, between February and April, and they have another litter between May and June. Unfortunately, only 20 to 50 percent of red squirrel kittens grow up to be adults.

The Menai Strait

Glannau Porthaethwy (the Shores of the Menai Strait) is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. Coed Môr is a part of this area.

Between Bardsey Island and Great Orme's Head, this is the most extensive wave-sheltered rock shore. The north shore of the Menai Strait contains some of the most interesting sections of this remarkable marine conservation area, with rapid tidal currents and little wave exposure. As a result, the tide-swept reefs become home to a diverse fauna, including sponges, anemones, sea squirts and other marine animals.

The area is dotted with islets and rocks that act as barriers and are accompanied by whirlpools and swirling currents known as The Swellies. With some of the strongest tidal races on earth, the Menai Strait is a dangerous area of water to navigate. According to reports, Lord Nelson once said that "anyone who can navigate the Menai Strait can join my navy," which is commemorated with a statue of the Lord on the north bank.

Keep your eyes peeled- you may even be fortunate enough to spot a seal or a harbour porpoise hunting or playing in the currents.

Birdwatching

A myriad of birds call Coed Môr and the Menai Strait home as the canopies are excellent nesting locations and the shores provide a bounty of food.

Although difficult to spot as they’re a relatively shy bird, you can distinctively hear the scream of the jaybird as you walk under the canopy. In the Autumn months you may spot one flying in search of acorns to feed on.

Wading birds such as the grey heron, oystercatcher and redshank are commonly spotted in the area.

In 2021, work on the Britannia bridge was halted due to a peregrine falcon nesting in one of the towers!