Pembrokeshire (Collins New Naturalist Library, Book 141)

This lushly illustrated and fully comprehensive book about the wildlife, landscapes and history of Pembrokeshire is a much-anticipated addition to the New Naturalist series, and reveals the incredible wealth of biodiversity present in the region. Surrounded by sea on three sides, Pembrokeshire is the only national park in the UK designated mainly for its coastline. In addition to idyllic beaches, the park includes deep wooded valleys and tranquil estuaries, as well as a marine nature reserve. There is greater variety of geological and landform scenery in the park than in any other area of the same size in the British Isles, and it is an essential sanctuary for many of Britain’s seabird species. There are also important archaeological sites in the park, from Iron Age hill forts and standing stones to the spectacular cathedral of St Davids, as Pembrokeshire has been consistently inhabited by humans since the Neolithic period. Jonathan Mullard explores the evolving landscape and observes its effects on its native species and habitats. He provides a detailed examination of the geology of the region and the integration of the archaeological and historic landscape with the natural landscape and its fauna. Covering the vast diversity of Pembrokeshire’s beaches and forests, rivers and waterfalls, moorland and farmland, caves and cathedrals, he provides an overview of man’s influence on the natural environment over the centuries and the ongoing conservation of the area. The culmination of years of research, New Naturalist Pembrokeshire is an inspiring exploration of this diverse and fascinating area.