© David Bellamy; MWT
The Manx Wildlife Trust (MWT) Cronk y Bing Ayres NNR, a long stretch of sand dunes on the coast of Andreas, has been formally declared by Hon. Clare Barber MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture to coincide with His Majesty’s visit to Tynwald.
The declaration under the Wildlife Act 1990 marks a significant milestone for nature conservation on the Island. NNRs represent the very best sites for nature and are afforded the very highest level of legal protection.
© Graham Makepeace-Warne; MWT
Cronk y Bing becomes the Island’s second NNR and forms part of the same 12km coastal ecological unit as the existing Ayres NNR, with the coastline dominated by Marram Grass (known locally as “bent”), stretching from Jurby to the Point of Ayre. The site is considered by MWT to be their most important nature reserve for birds, with 120 species recorded, including 36 of the Island’s 48 red-listed species of conservation concern.
The Isle of Man is a proud biosphere, and the declaration of the MWT Cronk y Bing Ayres NNR is a testament to our commitment to protecting the exceptional wildlife and landscapes that make this Island so special.Isle of Man Government
MWT protects 37 stunning nature reserves, with Cronk y Bing being the foremost for its birdlife. Simply put, it is one of the very best sites in the whole Island to experience and enjoy Manx nature at its very best. Nature is close to the Lord of Mann’s heart; when His Majesty visited the Island as Prince of Wales on Tynwald Day in 2000, he was able to visit another internationally important nature reserve at MWT Close Sartfield. The team at MWT are therefore very pleased to mark today’s historic visit with an enduring designation which will serve to protect this wonderful place to the maximum ability in Manx law.Manx Wildlife Trust
The new NNR covers 7.16 hectares (17.69 acres) and formal byelaws to enhance protection of the site will be developed later in the year.
