Ynys Môn AM chough-ed to support RSPB work at South Stack

Ynys Môn Assembly Member Rhun ap Iorwerth last week met with RSPB representatives at South Stack to learn more about the work they do there, in particular to protect the chough.
 
Rhun was appointed as species champion for the chough as part of an initiative by the Wales Environment Link to assign an AM to Wales’ rarest species to champion their cause.
 
He was therefore more than happy to accept an invitation from the RSPB to learn more about the bird as well as the work being done at South Stack to protect it.
 
Speaking after his visit, Rhun ap Iorwerth AM said:
 
“I was chough-ed to be chosen as the champion for this rare and wonderful bird. This bird has particular habitat needs that are far more specialist than some of its closest relatives, and that’s why the rocky shores of western Anglesey are ideal. Through management of these coastal grounds, the numbers of these iconic species have been maintained.
 
“While its black plumage identifies it as a crow, the chough has a red bill and legs unlike any other member of the crow family.  If you want to catch a sighting at South Stack, they can be found in flocks in autumn and winter, although the RSPB reserve at South Stack is of course worth a visit all year round.”
 
RSPB South Stack Project Manager Laura Kudelska added:
 
“We are thrilled our local Assembly Member, Rhun ap Iorwerth AM, is species champion for the chough, one of the key species we work hard to protect at RSPB South Stack. Wales is particularly important for choughs holding more than half of the UK population of this rare and remarkable bird.
 
“It was a pleasure to show Rhun the work we’re doing on site to safeguard the future of this iconic species. At RSPB Cymru we are committed to ensuring that our important Welsh population of chough is recognised, valued and celebrated by the people of Wales. Choughs are a special flagship species, demonstrating the role that farming plays in creating and maintaining habitats for priority species. Having a strong and healthy population of choughs on Anglesey is vital and choughs are an integral part of the history of this island which we want to ensure remains here for future generations to enjoy.”