Summer Homework Project - Biodiversity Detectives

Places to visit to help with the project:

1. Risley Moss Nature Reserve

Just a few miles from Culcheth, Risley Moss is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Special Area of Conservation (SAC). It features mossland and peat bog habitats, bird hides, and walking trails, making it ideal for birdwatching and learning about wetland ecosystems.

2. Rixton Clay Pits

Located nearby, this former clay extraction site has been transformed into a haven for wildlife. It's recognized for its diverse habitats, including ponds and grasslands, supporting various species of birds, insects, and plants.

3. Sankey Valley Park

Stretching from Warrington towards St Helens, this linear park follows the course of the Sankey Canal. It offers woodlands, wetlands, and meadows, providing habitats for a variety of wildlife and pleasant walking and cycling paths.

4. Spud Wood

Situated in Lymm, Spud Wood is a community woodland managed by the Woodland Trust. It's a great spot for walking and enjoying native trees and wildflowers, attracting birds and butterflies.

5. Whitley Nature Reserve

This reserve offers a beautiful woodland walk around a lake, similar in ambiance to Delamere Forest but on a smaller scale. It's a peaceful spot for observing local flora and fauna.

6. Mere Sands Wood Nature Reserve

Located in Ormskirk, this reserve features lakes, woodlands, and grasslands. It's home to wildfowl, waders, and abundant wildflowers, offering a tranquil setting for nature enthusiasts.

7. Astley Moss

Part of the Manchester Mosses, Astley Moss is a lowland raised bog supporting unique plant and animal life. It's a valuable site for conservation and offers opportunities to experience a rare habitat.