Mynydd Bodafon
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Yr Arwydd | |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 178 m (584 ft) |
| Location | Anglesey, Wales |
| Prominence | 178 m |
| Topo map | OS Landranger 114 |
| OS grid reference | SH472854 |
| Listing | Marilyn |
| Translation | the signal (Welsh) |
| Pronunciation | [ɐɾ 'æɾwɪð] |
Mynydd Bodafon (Buzzard Mountain) is a small hill, the highest on the island of Anglesey (although not in the county of Anglesey — see Holyhead Mountain). Its summit is also known as Yr Arwydd. It lies about four kilometres west of the coastal town of Moelfre.
The terrain of Mynydd Bodafon varies greatly, from pine forest to heathland. In 2006 during an arson attack, much of this land was burnt. There is a small lake which contains various varieties of fish, a reservoir and three springs coming from the hill. To the east of the hill is found an iron age earthwork.
Mynydd Bodafon's wildlife is typical for Anglesey. There are a growing number of rabbits which spread past the base of the hill. At one time, deer were present but were hunted and no longer exist there. Also due to hunting the number of foxes in the area has decreased. Mynydd Bodafon boasts a large number of wild birds. Various birds of prey include buzzards and a small number of peregrine falcons. The region is also a popular point of migration for swallows, who inhabit the area between mid-April to October. Recently there have been sightings of the lesser spotted woodpecker, which shows promising growth in the area.
Although the name Mynydd Bodafon may refer to the hill, it is also the name for the geographical area. The area is a member of the Penrhoslligwy area. Traditionally a Welsh area, many English people have moved to area to take advantage of its beauty and peace. The area is very popular with tourists, who use it for walking and sometimes fishing. Farming is the main use for the area, yet recently a paintball park has been opened there.
