Gower : 99

A definitive natural history of the Gower Peninsula, coinciding with its 50th anniversary as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. From its heritage coast and its appeal to the naturalist, to the geology, geomorphology, conservation and ecological history of this diverse and fascinating area.

Located to the south west of Swansea and often described as Wales in miniature, Gower Peninsula was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in May 1956. The area is unique in terms of the variety of habitats and species that occur within its 188 square kilometres, with a greater diversity of conservation designations than almost anywhere else in the UK. The natural history of Gower is like most parts of the British Isles – inextricably linked to the activities of man across many thousands of years.

This New Naturalist volume uses the evolving landscape and the effect that associated changes have had on species and habitats as its core approach. It provides detailed examination of the integration of the archaeological and historic landscape with the natural landscape and its associated species; the geological creation of the peninsula; man's influence on the natural environment over the centuries; the coast and channel, including limestone cliffs, beaches, caves and saltwater marsh; and the environmental impact of the Sea Empress oil disaster in 1996, which discharged 72,000 tonnes of oil into the sea off Gower. Mullard also explores notable plant species and the over-wintering bird populations on the estuary, which are of international importance.

The culmination of years of research and rich with the latest information and full colour illustrations, this is a valuable source of information on one of Britain's most diverse coastal landscapes, and an essential guide to the ongoing conservation of the area.