This is a visit to the third largest raised bog in Britain near Whitchurch, Shropshire. The time of the year and the unusual environment may make bird spotting more challenging than usual but then ‘easy’ is less rewarding. Time to diversify! Field guides to wild flowers, dragonflies and butterflies may be useful. To help us get the most out of our visit we are lucky enough to have the assistance of one of the volunteers from English Nature, Stephen Barlow, who is giving his time free to guide us around the site and pass on his knowledge of the site and its flora and fauna.
We will meet at 10.00hrs at Manor House National Nature Reserve Base where toilets and drinking water are available. Carry your own food and water. The terrain is level, easy walking, on wide tracks on peat. Not strenuous. It is recommended to wear stout footwear, and long trousers may be preferable to shorts. Biting and stinging insects can be expected so bring insect repellent. Suncream and a sun hat are wise items to have with you.
Directions
Take the A41 from Chester to Whitchurch by-pass. There take A525, followed by A495 towards Ellesmere. After 1km look for the brown ‘Fenn’s &Whixall Mosses NNR’ sign on the left. Follow them and look for white ‘Manor House NNR Base’ signs. Car parking is available there. Meet at 10.00hrs
SatNav SY13 2PD
Grid Ref SJ506365
Non-Wirral Bird Club members are very welcome to join us on the day.