Extra protection for Wales’ sea life

A consultation was held last year for new Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) for the harbour porpoise. The Welsh Government has approved three areas. These have now been submitted to the European Commission for consideration.

They are North Anglesey Marine, West Wales Marine and the Bristol Channel Approaches.

The areas have been identified based on 18 years of data on harbour porpoise distribution.

The Welsh Government says the SACs will complement existing conservation measures in place throughout UK waters to help maintain the status of the animals.

It has also approved three more marine areas as Special Protection Areas.

These include Northern Cardigan Bay which is home to the wintering red throated diver and an extension to two important seabird breeding areas, Ynys Feurig, Cemlyn Bay and Skokholm and Skomer, to include areas which are important to preening and other behaviours during the birds’ breeding season.