Work has begun on a major three-year scheme to restore and revive natural habitats in the Nant Ffrancon valley.

Nearly a million pounds will be spent on the Natur i Bobl project, aimed at recovering rare species in an area facing severe ecological declne.

The National Trust, which is leading the scheme, says habitats have become fragmented and some of Wales' most threatened species including ring ouzel and twite are at risk of vanishing.

The work will concentrate on more than 1600 hectares of habitats - sitauted on land cared for by the Trust - with upland bog, montane heath, rivers and wildflower grasslands taking priority.

Regular monitoring will be carried out to map the impact of the work on the valley, using species such as pine martents and otters and plants such as aspen and juniper.

The project will also involve local communities in the Nant Francon area, including tenant farmers, volunteers and partner organisations.

Simon Rogers, project manager for National Trust Cymru, said: "Nant Ffrancon is one of Wales' most special landscapes, but like many places, it faces significant challenges from habitat loss and declining biodiversity. We are at a tipping point, and we need to act now."

"Natur i Bobl Nant Ffrancon gives us an exciting opportunity to work alongside local communities, farmers, and partners, to restore and join up habitats that are better for nature, support threatened species and create a more resilient future for the valley."

"By building on previous and ongoing nature restoration work in the area, and placing people at the heart of nature recovery, we hope to create a lasting legacy where wildlife, farming and communities can thrive together and where wildlife can flourish for generations."

A number of projects are being supported by the scheme, including Tlysau Mynydd Eryri (Mountain Jewels of Eryri), which makes use of GPS livestock collars to manage grazing more effectively at Blaen y Nant, a traditional upland farm on the west side of Nant Ffrancon.

Earlier this year, work began on restoring the Afon Ogwen and its tribuatries in an effort to reduce erosion by slowing the flow of water, while also reducing the risk of flooding in downstream areas.

A dedicated nature hub, Hwb Natur Ogwen, is being set up as a central point for the scheme, which will provide space for skills training, school visits and community events, along with facilities including a native tree and plant nursery.

A community day will be held at Blaen y Nant farm on Saturday 3rd October featuring a fun run, live music and a host of activites, offering an opportunity to get involved in the project.

The #NNF5 Natur i Bobl Nant Ffrancon project is being run in partnership with Natural Resources Wales and received its funding through the Nature Netwoks Fund (NNF), delivered by the Heritage Fund on behalf of the Welsh Government.