The lush rainforests of Wales are often an overlooked treasure, hidden in plain sight along the west coast of the UK. While rainforests around the world like those in Borneo and the Amazon capture attention, Wales boasts its own unique and globally rare temperate rainforests. These habitats are not only stunning but also face greater threats than tropical rainforests. Wales provides an ideal environment for these rainforests, with locations spread across the west coast, including parts of Scotland, Wales, Devon, Cornwall, Cumbria, and Northern Ireland.
According to the Woodland Trust, rainforests in the UK are among the most biodiverse habitats. The high humidity and narrow temperature range create perfect conditions for a variety of moisture-loving plants such as lichens and bryophytes. A single habitat could host over 200 species of bryophytes and 100-200 species of lichens, highlighting the incredible diversity found in these rainforests. The UK holds a global responsibility to preserve many of these species due to their scarcity worldwide.
The Woodland Trust has identified several temperate rainforests in Wales, including Coed Llechwedd Einion in Powys, Coed Cwm Einion in Ceredigion, Coed Felenrhyd & Llennyrch in Eryri (Snowdonia), Coed Cymerau Isaf in Eryri (Snowdonia), Coed Ganllwyd in Eryri(Snowdonia), and Coed Cadair in Eryi (Snowdonia). These areas showcase the unique biodiversity and beauty of Welsh rainforests, offering visitors a glimpse into this rare and vibrant ecosystem.
However, the future of these rainforests is under threat due to various factors such as invasive species, diseases like ash dieback, high levels of grazing, and uncertainty regarding future support for rural areas and woodlands. In particular, the spread of Rhododendron plants poses a significant challenge as they reduce biodiversity and hinder woodland regeneration. The fragmented nature of these rainforests also makes them vulnerable to pests, diseases, and climate change impacts, emphasising the urgent need for conservation efforts.
To safeguard the future of Wales’ rainforests, sustained and thoughtful management is crucial. While progress has been made in preserving these unique habitats, there is still much work to be done. Support for initiatives like the Woodland Trust’s Rainforest Appeal is essential to ensure the long-term protection and sustainability of these precious ecosystems. Time is of the essence to act now before it’s too late and these remarkable rainforests are lost forever.