This is a bird-lovers paradise. Garden birds feast boldly at the bird tables within a few feet of where people sit. Nuthatches and Greater Spotted Woodpeckers are frequent visitors. The garden is an ideal place for nesting, well away from any cats, and with a plentiful supply of seeds and nuts. Pied Flycatchers nest alongside the drive.

There are of course more exotic birds of prey such as Buzzards soaring high amongst the foothills and mountains with their distinctive cries. A pair of Red Kites are often seen. Since 2004 Ospreys have nested just a couple of miles down the road towards Porthmadog. They have so far reared six chicks.

The area is also rich in bats which roost in our outbuildings and the nearby copper mine. They add to the attraction of watching the view from the balcony as dusk turns to nightfall. And if you'd like to know how much fun it is to count hibernating bats, have a look at this article on the BBC website.