Cwmbach Community Wetlands is a 27-acre (11-hectare) nature reserve in the Cynon Valley, South Wales. This stunning landscape, a blend of lagoons, marshes, woodland, and grassland, provides a vital habitat for wildlife while offering local residents a tranquil space to connect with nature (Pen y Cymoedd CIC, Cwmbach Wetlands).
The wetlands are an important environmental feature, playing a key role in supporting biodiversity, and managing flood risks.

What Wildlife Can You See?
Cwmbach Community Wetlands is home to an incredible range of wildlife, making it a must-visit for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and photographers. Here’s what you can expect to see:
Birds
- Commonly spotted: Swans (Haru and Grumpy), kingfishers, herons, woodpeckers, and cormorants (Cwmbach Wetlands).
- Seasonal visitors: Little egrets (February to May) and jack snipe (January sightings) (Tirfounder Fields).
- Rare finds: Egyptian geese, purple herons, and other unique species (Facebook).
Mammals
- Breeding populations of otters and evidence of water voles. Bats, including pipistrelle and Daubenton’s species, are often seen foraging here (Cwmbach Wetlands).
Reptiles and Amphibians
- Grass snakes, frogs, toads, and possibly great crested newts inhabit the wetlands (Pen y Cymoedd CIC).
Insects
- Bees, butterflies, dragonflies, and damselflies thrive here, adding vibrant life to the wetlands throughout the year (Cwmbach Wetlands).
Each visit offers new sights, as wildlife activity changes with the seasons. Further observations are documented on The Cwmbach Wetlands website and through observations captured by James at SprookSpring.
Caring for the Wetlands: The Community Effort
The wetlands were purchased in July 2024 by Cynon Taf Community Housing Group, through their climate action subsidiary, Down to Zero, to ensure long-term protection (Green Economy Wales).
The site is managed in collaboration with Cwmbach Wetlands Group, a local charity founded in 2020 to focus on conservation and community engagement (Pen y Cymoedd CIC). Their efforts have transformed the area into a valuable asset for nature and the community.
Visiting Cwmbach Community Wetlands
How to Access the Wetlands
- Main entry points:
- Behind the petrol station on Cwmbach Road, opposite the Ynyscynon pub.
- Behind Lewis Street in Aberaman.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible paths are available (LocalGiving).
- There’s a level crossing with a gate near the railway in Cwmbach.
Visitor Information
- Location: Aberdare CF44 6YU, Wales.
- Activities: Birdwatching, jogging, walking, and wildlife photography.
- Pet-friendly: Dogs allowed (please keep them under control to protect wildlife).
- Child-friendly: A safe and educational outdoor experience for children.
Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the natural beauty responsibly and check the official website or Facebook page for updates on events or guidelines.
The Cwmbach Community Wetlands offer more than just stunning scenery—they’re a vital part of the local environment, providing a lifeline for wildlife and a serene escape for visitors. Whether you’re birdwatching, walking, or simply enjoying the peace of nature, this reserve is a testament to what community collaboration can achieve.