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LNR - Bidston Moss
This triangular piece of land sandwiched between the River Birket, the M53 and A554 was designated as a Local Nature Reserve in 1994. Although vastly changed from the salt marsh of the original mossland it is an important wildlife site in North Wirral, particularly for its ponds, reedbed and marshland.
Approximately eight hectares in size the site has had a varied history. The construction of a sea wall in 1847 along the eastern limit of Wallasey Pool effectively destroyed the salt marsh at Bidston. Land drainage and the canalisation of the River Birket allowed the construction of roads and buildings. The adjacent golf course was constructed in 1890, while land forming the present nature reserve continued to be used for grazing until the 1970's. Part of the reserve's land was then used for tipping builders rubble - particularly the mound in the north-east corner.
It was declared a Site of Biological Interest in 1980 and improved in 1984 by the construction of ponds, paths and boardwalks together with tree and wildflower planting. Since then it has been managed by the Wirral Ranger Service. The main aims in managing the site are: to conserve and enhance the wetland as a rich wildlife habitat, to allow natural succession from rough grassland to scrub on the drier areas; to encourage the use of the area by local schools; to raise public awareness of the Reserve and to protect and maintain a safe site suitable for informal recreation.
The ponds, reedbeds and marshland are excellent habitats for birds. In the Spring the site is a very important stopover for migrating birds especially warblers, swallows, martins and swifts. Summer breeding birds include Sedge arbler, Reed Bunting, Whitethroat and Little Grebe together with Coot, Moorhen and Mallard.
In Autumn there are good numbers of finches and roosting Swallows while visiting birds of prey include Merlin, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel and Barn Owl. The increase in the number of wildfowl in winter consists mostly of mallard with some Teal while Snipe and occasionally Jack Snipe and Water Rail can also be seen.
Herons can regularly be found stalking the margin of the ponds while Stoats, Weasels and Foxes hunt on the drier areas.
The dry grassland and scrub areas have a typical flora associated with this type of habitat. The most notable plant being a colony of Bee Orchids believed to be the largest on Wirral. Ox-eye Daisies, Cowslips, Hardheads, Wild Carrot and vetches to name but a few produce a very colourful swathe alongside the main path in Spring and early Summer.
To meet the management aims for the reserve seasonal tasks include control of vegetation, notably Reedmace in favour of Common Reed. Control of invasive non-native plants especially in the ponds and maintaining the pathways are also important tasks.
Access to the reserve is limited to pedestrians only. There are two stiles - one near to the Bidston Railway Station and the other near to the A554. The nearest car park is at Bidston Railway Station. Visitors may gain access at any time but there are no facilities at the reserve.
For further information or reports please contact the Ranger at Tam O'Shanter Urban Farm. Telephone: 0151 653 9332