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Tuesday, 7 July 2009

Concern About Tern Disturbance at Wigan Flashes

An Investigation is being made into the disturbance of birds in the Bryn Marsh and Ince Moss site of special scientific interest (SSSI) by micro-light aircraft.

Concern has been raised that the craft take-off towards the Horrock's Flash area of the SSSI and that they are disturbing nesting common terns and black-headed gulls and that when the birds are in the air their nests are at a greatly increased risk of predation.

Natural England, Wigan Borough Council and Lancashire Wildlife Trust are all involved in the investigation and the Greater Manchester County Bird Recorder, Judith Smith has asked bird watchers to pass any information they may have about this matter to her so that she can ensure the correct authorities have the most accurate and fullest information.

Judith Smith can be contacted on 01942 712615 or by email at judith@gmbirds.freeserve.co.uk.

Illustration: Common tern