MORE than 200 animals belonging to a 'critically-endangered species' have been released along a river in the Vale of Glamorgan.

In a bid to improve their habitat, over 200 captive-bred water voles have been released along the River Thaw in the Vale of Glamorgan this weekend.

A spokesperson for the Vale of Glamorgan Council, said: "The critically endangered species are at risk of extinction, so our Restore the Thaw project has been working with partners to improve their habitat after a 90% decline in 30 years."

More than 200 water voles released along river in the Vale of Glamorgan.More than 200 water voles released along river in the Vale of Glamorgan. (Image: Vale of Glamorgan Council on X (Twitter))

The council released a video, which shows one of the water voles in a wooden box with a round hole in it. Here, the captive-bred water vole is assessing its surroundings, and making sure it is safe by using its sense of smell before exiting the wooden home. 

The River Thaw is the longest river entirely in the Vale of Glamorgan, running from the village of Llanharry and flowing 20km southeast before entering the Bristol Channel at West Aberthaw.

More than 200 water voles released along river in the Vale of Glamorgan.More than 200 water voles released along river in the Vale of Glamorgan. (Image: Vale of Glamorgan Council on X (Twitter))

Watch the video by the Vale of Glamorgan council, below.