Biodiversity
Bute Park extends to 140 acres, containing a broad range of ecosystems that support a wide variety of living species. We are very fortunate that the Park boasts such a rich diversity, including several hundred tree species, woodland and water birds, dragonflies, butterflies, moths, bats, many insects, specifically pollinators, wildflowers and fungi.
The Friends aim to work with Cardiff Council and other interested groups to increase the area of land managed for wildlife and further support populations of important species.
The Friends will maintain a wildlife log and would appreciate records of sightings from visitors to the park. Records of breeding species are of particular value.
Wildlife species within the Park have seen recent fluctuations. Some iconic species, such as the lesser spotted woodpecker have not been recorded at Bute Park recently, while other birds such as dippers, kingfishers, and goosander (in the winter) have appeared with the improvements to the River Taff. Likewise, some champion trees have been lost due to age; but the site is noted for a colony of purple hairstreak butterflies, and there are healthy populations of two other woodpecker species.
We are keen to manage the threats to biodiversity, such as loss of habitats, invasive species, pollution and litter, and will work to raise public awareness of these issues and increase participation in conservation work. Whilst river quality has greatly improved, there is work to do in the area of habitat connectivity to allow species to extend their range. The park rangers arrange sycamore coppicing work parties each winter to allow more light to enter the woodland areas and encourage the return of wildflowers in these areas – activities that the Friends are keen to support.
Bute Park extends to 140 acres, containing a broad range of ecosystems that support a wide variety of living species. We are very fortunate that the Park boasts such a rich diversity, including several hundred tree species, woodland and water birds, dragonflies, butterflies, moths, bats, many insects, specifically pollinators, wildflowers and fungi.
The Friends aim to work with Cardiff Council and other interested groups to increase the area of land managed for wildlife and further support populations of important species.
The Friends will maintain a wildlife log and would appreciate records of sightings from visitors to the park. Records of breeding species are of particular value.
Wildlife species within the Park have seen recent fluctuations. Some iconic species, such as the lesser spotted woodpecker have not been recorded at Bute Park recently, while other birds such as dippers, kingfishers, and goosander (in the winter) have appeared with the improvements to the River Taff. Likewise, some champion trees have been lost due to age; but the site is noted for a colony of purple hairstreak butterflies, and there are healthy populations of two other woodpecker species.
We are keen to manage the threats to biodiversity, such as loss of habitats, invasive species, pollution and litter, and will work to raise public awareness of these issues and increase participation in conservation work. Whilst river quality has greatly improved, there is work to do in the area of habitat connectivity to allow species to extend their range. The park rangers arrange sycamore coppicing work parties each winter to allow more light to enter the woodland areas and encourage the return of wildflowers in these areas – activities that the Friends are keen to support.
Bute Park Arboretum
As the restoration project develops, we will improve the information available about Bute Park's tree collection, through onsite signage, labelling, interpretation, guides and leaflets. This will ensure that the Bute Park arboretum continues to provide a fantastic attraction and resource for Cardiff residents and visitors.
Our detailed plant guide can help you learn more about the flora in Cardiff's parks and gives you detailed information about what is at its best each month.
Our detailed plant guide can help you learn more about the flora in Cardiff's parks and gives you detailed information about what is at its best each month.