outdoor activities
Dunes
Gronant Dunes an area of sand dunes and foreshore located on the Denbighshire coast between Prestatyn and Gronant forms part of a more extensive dune system that stretches eastwards to the Point of Ayr, Talacre.
Due to its outstanding wildlife value, the entire dune system and foreshore has been notified by the Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It also represents the only surviving largely unmodified remnant along the North Wales coastline of a once more extensive dune system. Elsewhere, it has largely been replaced with a sea wall. Here, it still serves a valuable function as a natural sea defence.
Gronant is unique because it is home to Wales’ only remaining colony of breeding little terns.
Little Tern
The Little Tern comes to the UK in the summer from West Africa to breed, arriving in early May, and leaving in August. This is the smallest off five Tern species in the UK, and is recognised by its short tail, white forehead, and distinctive black tipped, yellow beak.
The group of Terns found at Gronant Beach is the only breeding colony found in Wales. This site is internationally important as it contributes to over 10% of the entire UK breeding population as well as supplementing other important colonies.
These shy sea birds are very sensitive to any kind of disturbance. All Tern species are quick to leave the nest when disturbed, in what is known as a dread. The smallest disturbance could mean a devastating decline in this vital colony. If you do go to visit the colony, please use the viewing platform that has been provided for you.
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