Cheshire Wetland Becomes Sanctuary for Rare Black-Necked Grebes

A restored wetland at Woolston Eyes, located near Warrington, has become a crucial habitat for black-necked grebes, one of the UK's rarest breeding birds. This site now supports almost two-thirds of the country's breeding population of this species.

Previously a dumping ground for dredging materials from the Manchester Ship Canal, Woolston Eyes has been transformed into a network of freshwater pools and reedbeds since 2021. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) reported that four pairs of black-necked grebes successfully nested at the site in 2023, raising 15 young. By 2025, the number of breeding pairs at the reserve had increased to 35, with 29 pairs nesting in the newly restored area.

The RSPB's ecologist noted the impressive growth in the grebe population, highlighting the effectiveness of targeted conservation efforts. The site is managed by RSPB wardens and the Woolston Eyes Conservation Group, showcasing a successful collaboration between industry and wildlife conservation.