These reports are kindly produced by David, our resident ornithologist
100+ bird species have been spotted in or around Port Sunlight River Park.
2023
The download includes a table of past years records covering 2015 – 2023 (at the end of the file)
PORTSUNLIGHT RIVER PARK 2023
- Mute Swan
None were recorded on the lake this year. A first-year bird was on the mudflats
close to Mersey View Walk (13.2) & 7 were seen flying south over the Mersey (13.3).
- Whooper Swan
17 were observed flying north over the Mersey (27.2).
- Pink-footed Goose
Birds regularly fly over the park as they move between the Lancashire Mosses and the
Dee Estuary outside their Icelandic breeding season. The last spring record was of 12
flying N.E (27.3). 42 returning birds (18.9) were the first of the autumn to be seen.
Skeins regularly flew noisily over with a peak over 2,000 within twenty minutes (5.10).
- Greylag Goose
There were 3 records for the year: 1 flying low over the lake (9.5), 1 flying S.E. (10.5) &
8 flying south (12.6).
- Canada Goose
A pair nested on the island and 5 goslings first appeared (22.5); however, there appeared
to be feeding problems and all the goslings eventually died (the last was seen 26.6.).
Canada Geese can regularly be seen on the mudflat/saltmarsh area as well as flying over the Mersey.
- Shelduck
Up to 70 birds were to be seen feeding out on the mudflat until the spring when numbers fell
to some 20 birds. A pair with 6 ducklings were on the tideline (12.6). Numbers slowly rose in
the early autumn and by December there were over 75.
- Mandarin Duck
2 females were on the Dibbin (18/19.5). A female with 10 ducklings was on the Dibbin (9.6).
These had probably swum down the Dibbin from nearby Dibbinsdale where they are known to
breed. There were two further sightings all on the Dibbin: 4 (18.6) & 1 juvenile (23.6).
- Wigeon
A female was on the lake (14.10).
- Gadwall
A pair were briefly present on the lake (18.6). High rainfall in the autumn filled the lake
attracting more water-fowl. From late October to December there were up to 4 males &
2 females on the lake.
- Teal
Up to 90 are usually present outside the breeding season. The birds feed on the tideline
and the mussel-beds at low tide. They are invariably present on the lake where they can
sometimes be seen displaying.
- Mallard
2 pairs were often present in the early part of the year. A female appeared with 4 ducklings
(7.5) which survived into maturity. Another brood of 5 ducklings was present (7.6). Over 50
adult birds were on the lake by late June as they undergo their molt. Only a pair were to
be seen in the late autumn.
- Pintail
Up to 62 were recorded, usually on the tide-line though sometimes on the lake. A pair
was seen in early April though most had disappeared to their distant breeding grounds after
mid -March. The first returning bird was a female on the lake (30.9) then numbers built up
to 40+ by December.
- Shoveler
Up to 5 were recorded on the lake in early spring. By late March the birds disappear until the
Autumn. A female (12.9) was the first returning bird. By late October there were up to 14
present (8 males).
- Tufted Duck
A pair appeared on the lake in early March shortly to be followed by two others. As in recent
years there was no breeding. There were occasional sightings on the lake of a male in June &
the early winter months.
- Eider
A male was roosting on the mudflats with a flock of Shelducks in stormy weather (9.1).
- Common Scoter
A male was just off the tide-line close to the northern edge of the park in bad weather (9.1).
- Goldeneye
A female was with a flock of Pintail just off the tide-line (17.11).
- Red-breasted Merganser
A female flew low over the lake in misty conditions (20.11).
- Little Grebe
A singing bird was heard on the lake (7.2) shortly followed by a second male. Two pairs were
present throughout the spring and early summer. A juvenile bird was seen (15.6). A single
adult was on the lake until late November.
- Great Crested Grebe
An adult was on the Mersey close to the park (8.11).
- Cormorant
Seen regularly from the park throughout the year. Recorded on most visits, birds can often
be seen perched on the outflow pipe marker near the park, maximum count 8 (15.6).
- Little Egret
Recorded outside the breeding season usually by the salt marsh but also far out on the
mudflats at very low tide. A single is the norm but up to 4 were present in October. Birds occasionally visit the lake and sometimes the Dibbin after high tide
- Cattle Egret
One was near the tide-line in cold conditions after a night of light snow (17.1).
24. Grey Heron
Seen regularly flying over the park but also out on the mudflats or feeding in the Dibbin.
25. Pheasant
A male was regularly heard calling from January usually on the land south of the Dibbin
and around the southern slope of the summit. A pair were seen on the access road (3.4)
and two males were often heard from mid-day, the second bird frequented the area by
the wood. The last record was of a female (17.6).
26. Sparrowhawk
There were sightings, usually of a single bird, throughout the year. Prey was carried off site
suggesting that they bred outside the park.
27. Buzzard
2 birds were often perched near the access road in January. Flying birds were often visible
from the park usually from mid-morning when birds rise with the thermals.
28. Osprey
A bird was observed from the eastern edge of the summit flying low in a southerly direction
over the Mersey.
29. Kestrel
A pair is usually present around the summit throughout the year. Breeding took place in a
nest-box on a nearby industrial site and 5 fledged birds were seen there (27.6).
30. Peregrine
There were 4 sightings in the year usually of birds seeking prey among the wader flocks on
the nearby mudflats.
31. Water Rail
Up to 4 were heard calling from the reedbed in early part of the year. Silent from late March
until mid-September when up to 3 were heard.
32. Moorhen
Up to 4 pairs were present around the lake. The first chicks were seen (5.6) with broods being
produced by each pair. Up to 15 adult/juvenile birds were present in late October.
33. Coot
Up to 6 birds were in residence in January though there were 4 breeding pairs by May. Chicks
were seen from 7.5 with several broods being raised. 20+ birds were on the lake by mid-
September but only 10 by December.
34. Oystercatcher
Flocks of up to 80 were on the mudflats and mussel-beds by Mersey View Walk at the start
of the year. Only 5 were present by late May/early June. Numbers rose form early September
as the over-wintering flocks became re-established.
35. Little-Ringed Plover
One was repeatedly engaging in display flight on the cleared industrial land by the River Dibbin
(10.5), where recent heavy showers had created large puddles. There were no subsequent sightings.
36. Ringed Plover
A regular passage migrant of Spring and Autumn to be seen on the nearby mudflats: 15 (3.3),
12 (6.), 2 (9.6) then regular sightings with a maximum of 65 (20.9) but none subsequently.
37. Lapwing
One was displaying on land by the Dibbin (7-10.5). A bird was on the muddy area of the lake
(8.6 & 23.6).
38. Knot
A single bird was present in a Dunlin/Redshank wader flock on the mudflats (23.11).
39. Dunlin
A flock of 20 was on the mudflats (16.1) then there was the occasional single bird present until
late March. 6 were by the tide-line (7.5). Up to 16 were present from mid-September to mid-
October then numbers rose steadily 80+ by late October. By the middle of November there
were 300+ though these figures fell back to 100+ by December.
40. Snipe
The cutting of the reeds especially on the island in the lake revealed 25+ birds roosting (17.3).
A few birds remained until early April. Heavy autumnal rains resulted in a full lake and
no exposed mud, nevertheless, up to 6 birds were present from mid-September, usually
perching on reed stalks.
41. Woodcock
One flew up by a path just below the summit before disappearing into the wood (21.11).
42. Black-tailed Godwit
Mainly a passage migrant of spring and autumn. Birds appeared on the mudflats by late
February and numbers peaked by late March- 200+. Returning birds were seen from mid-
September. Early October saw a peak of 370+ and then none were recorded until 2 were
regularly on the tide-line in December. Birds would roost on the north-east corner of the
lake at high tides.
43. Bar-tailed Godwit
A single bird was roosting on the lake with a flock of 65 Black-tailed Godwits (29.9).
44. Curlew
A maximum count of 31 was recorded on the nearby mudflats (both in January and February).
Numbers fall as birds move off to their breeding grounds in the spring and build up in
September. At very high tides birds move to nearby playing fields but especially the cleared
industrial land by the River Dibbin.
45. Redshank
Some 200+ were to be found out on the mudflats and mussel-beds outside their breeding season. None were recorded in April/May. Up to 4 appeared by late June and by
mid-September numbers were back to 200+.
46. Greenshank
One was briefly on the lake (18.6).
47. Common Sandpiper
Only two sightings each of single birds feeding on the muddy sides of the Dibbin (12.9,6.10).
48. Turnstone
These birds feed mainly on the mussel-beds and then roost on small boats at high tide. Usually
20+ birds are present from September to early March.
49. Mediterranean Gull
2 adults were in the gull roost on the mudflats close to the lake (15.6). 1-2 were regularly
in the gull roost from 14.9- 5.10. During very windy conditions 1 was with a flock of Common
and Black-headed Gulls over the Mersey.
50. Black-headed Gull
The most numerous of the gull species. The highest count of the winter months was
270+. By mid-March there were some 80 present which disappeared by 23.3. Up to 10 were
recorded in early May but all were 1st year birds (the adults having departed to their breeding grounds). By mid-June numbers had risen to 120+ and by mid-September over 200.
51. Common Gull
In the first two months of the year there were usually 25-60 birds present out on the mudflats
though 90+ were recorded in bad weather (12.1). There was a noticeable spring passage in
March: 87 (20.3), 171(22.3) & 110(23.3) thereafter less than 10 were recorded until early
April. From mid-September 25+ were recorded though on a day of strong & gusty 80+ were to
be seen in the Mersey.
52. Lesser Black-backed Gull
A fairly common gull out on the mudflats with some 25+ usually present in the winter months.
In late May and early June 45+ were often seen. Birds do breed in nearby urban/industrial areas
on roof-tops though many are winter visitors and passage migrants. Over 60 were on the mudflats (16/18.9). At least 3 wintering birds were of the intermedius race indicating eastern
European origin.
53. Herring Gull
Another gull that is both a local breeder as well as a winter visitor, passage migrant and summer
feeding ground for non-breeding birds (up to 4 years old). Up to 150 birds can be present especially in inclement weather during the winter months. During the summer months 50-80
birds can be recorded (the majority of which are non-adults). The latter half of September saw
over 200 birds present (about 2/3 adults).
54. Yellow-legged Gull
There were two separate sightings of adult birds present in the gull roost (17.2 & 6.3).
55. Great Black-backed Gull
Present in small numbers out on the mudflats/tideline mainly outside the breeding season.
Up to 3 (usually adults) present January – March. 7 (6adults & 1 2nd.winter) were recorded (5.10). In December up to 5 birds were usually seen.
56. Black Tern
An immature/1st year bird was sat out on the nearby mudflats close to the gull roost (29.9).
57. Feral Pigeon
Present in variable numbers especially on nearby industrial/waste-land areas. Up to 20 can
sometimes be seen feeding around the summit.
58. Stock Dove
Several pairs breed close to the park and this species is regularly recorded throughout the
Year. 4 were seen feeding on the summit (30.9).
59. Woodpigeon
A common bird of the park with an estimated breeding population of around 25 pairs.
60. Collared Dove
There were 4 breeding pairs in or next to the park: by the centre, by the entrance on Dock
Road North, by the Water Plant and by the Dibbin close to the bridge. Birds were to be heard
Singing from January to October.
61. Cuckoo
1 was seen flying along the bushes close to Mersey View Walk (26.5).
62. Swift
2 were regularly seen over the lake (from 9.5) and the 6 from early June. Over 35 were to be seen flying over the northern edge of the summit in late June.
63. Kingfisher
There were 2 sightings of single bird on the Dibbin by the access road (24.3 & 13.9).
64. Great Spotted Woodpecker
This species is regularly recorded in the park outside the breeding season.
65. Skylark
First heard singing in mid-January there were 4 regularly singing by late May and 2 were
Still in song towards the end of June. The autumn brings visible migration with calling
birds flying over the park in a south-westerly direction. The main concentration was from
late September to mid-October. Over 50 flew over in some two hours (12.10).
66. Sand Martin
There were three records all of birds flying over the lake: 1 (22.3), 3 (31.3) & 1 (16.6).
67. Swallow
The first record of the year (29.3) was of a bird flying around the lake. Up to 3 adults were
regularly seen in June with a juvenile bird present on one occasion (27.6), suggesting that
they are possibly breeding in the area.
68. House Martin
2 were flying low over the lake (7.5) and were then regularly recorded from the middle of
the month with the highest count of 10 birds. As well as feeding over the lake the birds were
often seen collecting mud from the mudflats. The local breeding population appears to have
crashed with none nesting on Bolton Road East or Dock Road North. The last records of the
autumn were 2 (13.9) & 1 (16.9).
69. Meadow Pipit
A small flock of about 12 over-winters around the summit with birds present from mid-
September to early April. There is also passage movement as birds fly over as they head south and west in late September and early October – over 40 flew over in two hours (30.9).
70. Grey Wagtail
A few birds can be seen around the park throughout the year, either around the Dibbin or
the water-plant. 3 juvenile birds were often feeding on the Dibbin in early June. The autumn
sees passage movement as birds fly over heading usually south-west.
71. Pied Wagtail
Only occasionally seen in the park even they breed in nearby sub-urban areas. Most of the
records occurred in the autumn as fly-overs indicating passage movement.
White Wagtail
The continental race of Pied Wagtail also occurs as an autumnal passage migrant. There
were 3 records of fly-overs: 1 (26.9), 1(27.9) & 2(5.10).
72. Wren
The most numerous resident breeding bird with an estimated 40 pairs. The first juvenile
to be recorded was 6.6.
73. Dunnock
Not always an obvious bird there were nevertheless an estimated 16 breeding territories.
They started singing in late January but generally became more secretive in the latter half
of the year.
74. Robin
A common resident with an estimated breeding population of 15 pairs. In the autumn numbers
are augmented by over-wintering continental visitors- 32 birds present (12.10). Young birds
were recorded from 24.5.
75. Stonechat
Recorded in the spring and autumn as birds move to and from their breeding grounds. A male
And 2 females were around the summit in mid-March (10/20.3) & 1 female (17.10).
76. Wheatear
There were only 2 records of this passage migrant: a pair on the summit (22.3) and a female (17.10).
77. Blackbird
A fairly common resident with up to 9 pairs. Additional birds also appear in the autumn when the hips and haws are rapidly eaten.
78. Fieldfare
A flock of some 40 birds flew low and over the wood (18.10).
79. Song Thrush
9 were singing in early February and up to 7 were still in song by mid-June. Birds were more
secretive in the autumn with few records.
80. Redwing
A winter visitor with only small numbers recorded this year usually 1or 2 birds calling
from the trees near the lake, a total of 9 sightings.
81. Mistle Thrush
An irregular visitor to the park even though they breed in neighbouring areas. Only two
records: 1 feeding on berries close to the lake (5.10) & 6 flying low over the summit heading
north (21.11).
82. Cetti’s Warbler
A resident with probably 3 pairs: 2 around the lake and 1 near Mersey View Walk.
83. Reed Warbler
6 were singing in the reeds around the lake from early May to late June.
84. Whitethroat
Another summer visitor with up to 6 territories held in the bushy areas circling the summit.
The birds were present from early May and the first young bird was seen 17.6.
85. Blackcap
A fairly common summer visitor with at least 8 breeding pairs. First heard singing (7.5) their
Warbling could be heard from the trees throughout the summer months. Up to 3 were calling near the lake (15.9).
86. Chiffchaff
There were two records of calling birds near the lake (9.2/28.2), either over-wintering birds or
very early arrivals. The first singing bird was heard 2.3 and regularly thereafter. By early April
9 were singing in established territories. In mid-September there were 8 calling around the lake.
A single bird was heard calling 9.11.
87. Willow Warbler
One was singing by the lake (2.4) and by early May 7 were in song. There were 4 well-defined territories but none were singing by the end of June.
88. Goldcrest
Largely this species is present outside the breeding season. A lack of suitable breeding habitat
explains its absence after early April until September. 3 pairs over-wintered.
89. Long-tailed Tit
A common resident usually encountered in flocks outside the breeding season. There were at
least 3 pairs which successfully raised broods.
90. Coal Tit
There were 3 records all of single birds: (21.9), (17.10) & (6.11).
91. Blue Tit
A common resident with some 5 pairs breeding. The first fledged birds were seen 7.6. and two
days later there were 3 mobile family parties moving through the trees and bushes.
92. Great Tit
A fairly common resident seen or heard on most visits to the park. There were at least 3 breeding pairs.
93. Jay
A secretive bird with a least one resident pair around the wood. Seen throughout the year but
Especially in September when up to 4 birds were seen collecting acorns for storing.
94. Magpie
A noisy and obvious resident with 5 breeding pairs. Non-breeders can often be seen in loose
parties on the summit.
95. Jackdaw
Small numbers can often be seen from the park. The species is a common breeder in nearby
Port Sunlight. They visit the summit in late spring to find food for their young. They are also
a passage migrant especially in the autumn when high flying flocks heading west pass over
the park- 425 recorded in 20 minutes (16.10) & 65 (17.10). These are probably continental
birds which over-winter in Ireland.
96. Carrion Crow
A resident with probably 4 breeding pairs. Small flocks sometimes gather on the summit
to feed on the Sea-buckthorn berries- 20 (30.10). Birds can also be seen scattered over the
mudflats and mussel beds at low tide where they feed. The highest count was 55(5.10).
97. Raven
4 out of the 5 records were in February & March with 1 in December: 2(10.2), 2(13.2),3(15.2)
1(3.3) & 1(5.12). Ravens are known to breed in the nearby locality.
98. Starling
None were seen in or from the park until mid-March despite being a fairly common breeder
in nearby urban areas. From early May to late June small flocks visit the summit to feed.
In the autumn small numbers can be seen roosting on a nearby communication mast.
99. House Sparrow
These are still quite numerous in the surrounding area. A small colony breed by the Shorefield
Steps and birds visit the bushes surrounding the lake.
100. Chaffinch
Small numbers can be found in the bushes around the lake and Mersey View Walk outside
the breeding-season. Late September and October sees passage movement as birds move
south and west.
101. Brambling
A bird was calling from a Willow bush near the lake (24.3).
102. Greenfinch
Small numbers can be found in the park throughout the year but the spring sees an increase
as breeding territories are established, some 20 by late March. The first young were seen
(19/05).
103. Goldfinch
This species can be seen throughout the year. The number of breeding pairs was estimated
at 18. Birds were still in song at the end of June. A flock of 200+ was present (27.9). Smaller
flocks were scattered around the park for the rest of the year.
104. Siskin
There was single spring record (6.3). Small numbers were present from late September to
early December. Birds can usually be seen feeding in tops of Birch and Alder trees.
105. Linnet
There were a few records in early spring then a flock of 20 briefly frequented the summit
(13.3).
There were 5 pairs (12.5). The species largely disappeared in the latter half of the year.
106. Lesser Redpoll
A flock of 7 was briefly in the Pussy Willow bushes by the Access Road (15.2). There were
2 records of single birds flying over later in the year (3.11 & 11.11).
107. Bullfinch
A resident species with 5 pairs present in May.
108. Reed Bunting
Usually present in the park with an estimated breeding population of 3 pairs: 1 summit, 2 lake.
Early October saw some passage movement as birds flew over.
2022
1. Mute Swan
There was no breeding this year though a pair were present on the 14.3. A male was regularly
present from the 10.5-20.6. Then 7 birds, all sub-adult were on the lake from the 28.6 – 6.7 until
the rapidly falling water-level saw them go.
2. Pink-footed Goose
Skeins regularly fly over the park between late September and early March as the birds move
between the Lancashire Mosses and the Dee Estuary.
3. Greylag Goose
2 flew low over the park, 11.3.
4. Canada Goose
3 pairs were seen regularly on the nearby mudflats off Shorefields in the early part of the year.
A pair bred on the lake producing 8 goslings but these were rapidly predated and none survived.
A flock of 31 flew over the park, 23.5. During the autumn up to 8 were often to be seen on the
mudflats.
5. Shelduck
Often to be seen on the nearby mudflats, the Mersey and sometimes on the lake, the highest
count was 60 on the 9.3. By late spring there were usually 8 pairs around, one often on the lake.
The only sign of successful breeding was of 8 tiny ducklings near the tide-line, 22.6; they all
appeared to survive. Small numbers were present until late autumn.
6. Ruddy Shelduck
A male was present either on the lake or the nearby mudflats between 19.5 – 6.6.
7. Mandarin Duck
This species breeds in nearby Dibbinsdale and 2 to 3 birds were regularly on the Dibbin between
late March and early July.
8. Wigeon
2 males were on the lake between the 4 – 8.7.
9. Gadwall
A male was on the lake from, 6.6 – 24.6 when it was joined by 2 females.
10. Teal
A common visitor outside the breeding season either on the lake or the tide-line and mussel-beds.
Numbers peaked at around 80 in late January the fell rapidly by late March. The first returning
birds were a pair on the lake, 1.7. The autumn saw birds either on the tide-line or the Dibbin
because the lake had completely dried up in the summer. Heavy rains in the autumn enabled
the lake to slowly fill up and by late November over 90 teal were counted on the lake.
11. Mallard
Up to 4 birds were regularly on the lake in the early part of the year. A female with 8 ducklings
were present, 25.3. Birds come to the lake during their moult and by late June there were over 30
present. A female with 8 ducklings was on the lake 29.6.
12. Pintail
A winter visitor- the highest count was of 41 on the tide-line, 19.1. Numbers fell and the last spring
sighting was of a pair on the Mersey, 31.3. Early October saw a pair on the tide-line and by late
November there were 32.
13. Shoveler
There was a maximum of 7 birds to the end of March. 3 birds were present from mid-November as
water returned to the lake.
14. Tufted Duck
A male was on the lake from 30.5 – 6.6.
15. Common Scoter
Seen from Mersey View Walk a bird was seen flying low and then landing on the Mersey, 8.7.
16. Pheasant
A male was regularly recorded around the northern edge of summit, 5.10 – 16.11.
17. Cormorant
Small numbers seen on most visits to the park.
18. Little Egret
The first record of the year was of a single bird feeding on the edge of the nearby saltmarsh, 30.5.
During September there were up to 3 birds present sometimes feeding in the Dibbin depending on
the tide-level.
19. Grey Heron
Single bird sightings scattered throughout the year; regularly flying over the park, sometimes on
the mudflats and occasionally feeding in the Dibbin.
20. Little Grebe
As in previous years birds started to establish breeding territories by late February and by March
there were 3 pairs; however, there was no evidence of breeding success and the last sighting of a
single bird was 28.6.
21. Great Crested Grebe
A single bird was fishing in the Mersey close to Mersey View Walk, 9.9.
22. Sparrowhawk
Regularly seen throughout the year -16 sightings . Birds were seen carrying prey away from the
park, suggesting that they bred nearby but not in the park this year.
23. Buzzard
Occasionally seen flying either over or near the park.
24. Water Rail
Generally heard calling outside the breeding season with at least 3 around the reedbed. I saw an
adult on the mud, 8.7. and a reputable birder told me that he had seen a young bird at that time.
This confirms breeding but suggests that this secretive bird may have bred in past years.
25. Moorhen
At least 3 pairs were on the lake. 2 chicks were seen 28.6.
26. Coot
A pair was present in January, later to be joined by two more. Each successfully raised at least one
brood (there were 5 older juvenile birds by 12.7.) The species was absent from late summer to
the late autumn when the lake dried up.
27. Oystercatcher
A fairly common sight on the mudflats and mussel-beds outside the breeding season. Up to the end
of February 40+ were usually present at low tide then numbers rapidly decline. By September
birds return. A flock of 73 were on the edge of the tide-line, 29.11.
28. Grey Plover
Three records of single bird out on the mudflats: 24.3, 22 & 23.6.
29. Lapwing
A single bird was on the muddy area of the lake from 18 – 21.3 & then 2 birds from 24.6 – 2.7.
30. Ringed Plover
Small numbers were recorded on the nearby mudflats in the spring: 8 late March, up to 8 mid-
March & 7 mid-May. There was a more marked autumn passage from September to mid-October
which peaked at a flock of 70+ , 13.9.
31. Curlew
The first two months of the year regularly saw up to 32 on the mudflats. On high tides the birds
fly off to nearby cleared land by the Dibbin where they were easier to count from the summit.
Birds move off in the spring though additional birds use the Mersey mudflats as they migrate
to their breeding grounds. Returning birds start arriving back in late June. There were up to
27 birds from mid-September onwards.
32. Black-tailed Godwit
Numbers rise in late-winter and early spring with birds roosting/feeding on the mudflats & the lake
Spring records Late summer records
No. Date No. Date
1 17.1 1 28.6
17 21.1 160 10.7
115 26.1 90 12.7
250 28.1 40 12.9
35 3.2
95 7.3
170 9.3
215 11.3
170 16.3
There were scattered records in the late autumn of less than 10 birds.
33. Turnstone
A fairly common visitor mainly feeding on the mussel-beds and the tideline with up to 16 seen
regularly in January and early February. The autumn saw birds appearing from early October
with 28 being the maximum count.
34. Knot
5 were seen flying low over the Mersey close to Mersey View Walk, 19.10.
35. Dunlin
Fairly modest numbers (maximum 17) were recorded from mid-January to early February. Two were
seen 13.5. and from mid-November up to 5 were usually feeding on the tideline with the redshanks.
36. Common Sandpiper
A regular passage migrant usually to be found on the muddy sides of the Dibbin: 1 (23.3), 2 (9.5),
2 (4-12.7) then 1 (9.9-21.11).
37. Green Sandpiper
A single bird frequented the muddy area of the lake, (3-12.7).
38. Redshank
The most numerous of the visiting waders, usually to be found on the mudflats or the mussel-beds,
outside the breeding season. The highest count was 300+ (19.1) then numbers rapidly decline in
the latter half of March until only one was recorded by the end of that month. Birds started to
return in June- 3 (21.6) and by mid-July over 80 were present. By the late autumn there were
regularly 250+.
39. Snipe
Small numbers can be seen around the edge of the lake in the reeds from early September to late
March. Usually up to eight are present though an indeterminate number are in the salt-marsh.
40. Sandwich Tern
2 were seen off Mersey View Walk ( 30.6 ), then a single bird was over the river ( 8.7 ).
41. Common Tern
2 were seen flying over the Mersey close to the park ( 21.5 ).
42. Black-headed Gull
The most numerous gull with typically 250+ on the mud-flats and mussel-beds outside the breeding
season. Birds move off to their breeding grounds from mid-March before starting to return from late
June. The highest winter count was of 400+ (21.11).
43. Mediterranean Gull
Single birds were regularly seen usually with roosting Black-headed and Common Gulls out on the
nearby mudflats close to Shorefields, from early July to late October.
44. Common Gull
Up to 20 are present in the winter months but rise to 60+ in February indicating some passage
movement before disappearing to their breeding grounds. Birds start to trickle back in June & July.
Poor weather conditions with high winds saw up to 35 birds present.
45. Lesser Black-backed Gull
35-40 are usually present outside the breeding season but unlike other gull species numbers rise in
late March to 65+ and over 100 in late June. Up to 4 birds present in the winter were of the
intermedius race ( i.e. of eastern European origin ).
46. Herring Gull
Seen throughout the year though during the breeding season most of the 60-90 birds present are
non-adults. Adult numbers vary from 50-100 according to the tides in the winter months.
47. Great Black-backed Gull
Small numbers, typically 1 – 5, are present outside the breeding season.
48. Feral Pigeon
A fairly common bird breeding on land adjacent to the park. Flocks of 15-20 birds regularly feed
across the summit. There were fewer birds present from late September.
49. Stock Dove
Seen in small numbers (up to 5) regularly around the park throughout the year.
50. Woodpigeon
A common resident with some 25 breeding pairs.
51. Collared Dove
There were two breeding sites: by the centre and the Shorefield Steps/Water Plant area. Birds
were recorded throughout the year.
52. Swift
Up to 5 could be seen flying over the park from early May to July.
53. Kingfisher
5 sightings of single birds on the Dibbin from mid-June to early October.
54. Great Spotted Woodpecker
From late May to early July birds were regularly seen and heard due to post-breeding dispersal.
Regular sightings in September/October were probably indications of passage movement.
55. Kestrel
A pair successfully bred, raising two birds in a nest-box close to the park.
56. Peregrine
Only one record – a male was seen making two unsuccessful swoops over a wader flock (18.11).
57. Magpie
A common and visible resident with some 5 breeding territories. A party of up to 14 is usually
around the north end of the summit.
58. Jay
Regularly heard and occasionally seen in the park. Birds are more visible in September/October
when they collect acorns. A pair bred in the wood.
59. Jackdaw
A regular visitor to the park from nearby Port Sunlight especially in May when adults hunt
for insect food on the summit. There is also some visible migration as birds fly over the park
especially in the autumn – 104 flying west late October.
60. Carrion Crow
A resident with 3 breeding pairs. Large numbers can be seen feeding on the mudflats at low-tide
e.g. 52(7.3) & 58 (3.10).
61. Raven
Single bird sightings were regularly made in February and March.
62. Goldcrest
A visitor mostly outside the breeding season. At least two were present from January – March. The
Autumn saw four pairs scattered around the park though 12 were present (18.10) indicating a fall
63. Blue Tit
A common resident with at least 5 pairs. The first juvenile birds were seen 30.6. The largest winter
flock was of 12 birds (17.1).
64. Great Tit
A resident species with some 4 pairs.
65. Coal Tit
A bird was in bushes and trees near the lake from 9-11.11.
66. Skylark
Two birds were singing territorially from 3.2. then 3 from 22.2. This was the maximum number
of pairs heard though there were probably multiple broods since birds were still singing by
mid-July. There is visible migration in the autumn as calling birds fly over regularly from
late September to mid-November.
67. Sand Martin
Two were flying over the lake,13.5 and a single bird 21.6.
68. Swallow
Several birds were seen over the Dibbin and around the Dock Road North entrance to the
Park from early May onwards suggesting two territories; however, no young birds were
ever recorded suggesting breeding failure. There was a single bird over the lake,12.7 and
passage migration in the autumn ( 2- 11.9 & 2- 13.9 ).
69. House Martin
There was no breeding on two sites close to the park ( Dock Road North & Bolton Road East ).
The first record was of a single bird over the land, 13.5. The next record was of 10 feeding
over the summit, 20.5. From late May up to 7 were seen regularly collecting mud from
mudflats. Some 20 birds were over the summit, 12.9 and the last record was 11 over the lake, 15.9.
70. Cetti’s Warbler
Present throughout the year though secretive when outside the breeding season. First heard
singing from 3.2 there were 4 pairs around the park. A juvenile bird was seen 1.6.
71. Long-tailed Tit
At least 5 breeding pairs though not all were successful. The party of young was seen close to the
Lake, 5.6. There were subsequently at least 2 mobile flocks around the park for the rest of the year.
72. Chiffchaff
A common summer breeding species with at least 7 pairs. 2 were singing from, 14.3 and 7 by 23.3.
Birds continued to sing through the summer, evidence of either multiple broods or breeding attempts
and there were birds calling around the lake until 12,10. A single bird was in the bushes adjacent
to the lake from the 18-23,11.
73. Willow Warbler
First heard singing 31.3 and by early May there were 4 well-established territories. 2 were still
singing -23,6 when a juvenile bird was also seen. A single bird probably on passage was seen 28.9.
74. Blackcap
First heard singing 24.3 and soon there were at least 8 territories with birds singing until the end
of June. Birds were noticeably feeding up on elderberries during September. A late record was of
a single female, 18.10.
75. Lesser – Whitethroat
A bird singing near the lake ( 27.5 ) was the only record.
76. Whitethroat
There were at least 13 territories by mid-May and up the 6 were still in song by mid-July.
77. Reed Warbler
From mid-May there appeared to be at least 9 territories around the reed-bed of the lake
and an isolated one in a small area of reed close the Mersey View Walk.
78. Wren
The most numerous breeding species of bird with an estimated total of some 40 pairs.
79. Starling
A fairly common breeding bird in the urban area adjacent to the park but tending to be only
present from early-May to early-June when birds collect food for their young on the summit
80. Blackbird
A common resident with passage movement in the autumn. Probably 20 breeding pairs. The first
juvenile bird was recorded on 25.5.
81. Song Thrush
12 territories had been established by early February. 5 birds were still singing by the start of July.
There was some passage movement in September though birds were generally much more
skulking by the late autumn.
82. Redwing
Only three records: 6 birds were in hawthorns near the lake, 17.1 and birds were heard calling 19.1
& 7.3.
83. Mistle Thrush
Single birds were seen flying over the park on 3.6 & 4.7.
84. Robin
A common resident and also winter visitor. There were at least 12 breeding pairs by the late spring
and 2 very young juveniles were near the lake 21.5. By mid-October 21 singing birds were
establishing their winter territories.
85. Whinchat
An occasional but annual passage migrant. A female was on the summit 10.5 & 19.5.
86. Stonechat
A male was present around the northern end of the summit from late January to early February
and a male was seen 17.3.
87. Wheatear
A large female ( Greenland Race ) was on the summit 13.5.
88. Dunnock
A common but rather secretive resident. There were an estimated 15 territories by mid-March.
89. House Sparrow
Although a fairly common breeding bird in the urban areas adjacent to the park the bird is not
present in the park for much of the year. One was singing within the park close to the Shorefield
Steps from mid-March and 4 were seen together 31.5.
90. Grey Wagtail
Present throughout the year with 2 breeding territories either within or very close to the park.
Birds are around the Dibbin and the Water Plant/lake areas usually. A juvenile was feeding on the
Dibbin 3.6. There is some visible migration from mid-September & October.
91. Pied Wagtail
An irregular visitor to the park but the appearance of a pair with 2 advanced juveniles on the grassy
area by the Centre from 17.6 onwards suggest that breeding took place either in or close to the
park. October saw 3 records of birds flying over the park as they moved south.
White Wagtail
The continental race can sometimes be seen flying over in October as they move south. There
were 3 records: 4 – 9.10, 1 – 12.10 & 1 – 13.10.
92. Meadow Pipit
A visitor outside the breeding season with small mobile flocks of 10/15 birds scattered over the
summit. Birds are present from mid-September to late March. There is also visible migration
taking place in September.
93. Chaffinch
Small scattered flocks of 20+ are usually present from October to late March. They tend to
frequent the bushes around the lake, Mersey View Walk and the Dibbin. Over 45 were present
1.10. There were two records, both of females near the lake in the summer ( 3 & 24.6 ).
94. Bullfinch
A breeding resident with at least 4 pairs. A juvenile bird was seen 30.5.
95. Greenfinch
Present throughout the year though numbers rise during the breeding season. The first song was
heard 22.1. Some 20 birds were singing by 10.5. and 2 were still singing in early July.
96. Linnet
An irregular visitor outside the breeding season. By May there were 4 established territories.
4 juveniles were seen 10.7. Small numbers were around the edge of the summit during September
to mid-October.
97. Lesser Redpoll
1 was in the willows by the lake, 25.3.
98. Goldfinch
Present throughout the year though numbers can vary considerably. By mid-May there were an
estimated 24 breeding pairs. The first juveniles appeared 30.5. A good food supply of various
plant seeds saw a mobile flock of 70+ roaming the park in September. Smaller flocks were present
until at least the end of November.
99. Siskin
Attracted to the alder seeds, this species is essentially a passage migrant and winter visitor.
A flock of up to 7 were usually near the Centre, from 7 – 21.3. A single bird flew over 28.6 &
3 birds were present from early October onwards.
100. Reed Bunting
A resident species with up to 5 breeding territories. Singing was heard from 29.2 and the first
juvenile was seen 26.5.
The above data was made from 96 visits made between 17.1 – 31.3, 9.5 – 12.7 & 9.9 – 29.11.
Estimation of the number of breeding pairs of species in the park:(* failure)
| 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | |
| Canada Goose | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | ||||
| Mute Swan | 1 | 1 | ||||||
| Mallard | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | |
| Tufted Duck | 2 | 4 | 2 | 3 | ||||
| Little Grebe | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2* | |||
| Water Rail | 1 | |||||||
| Moorhen | 2 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 2 |
| Coot | 2 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 3 |
| Woodpigeon | 18 | 18 | 18 | 22 | 20 | 20 | 30 | 25 |
| Collared Dove | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Magpie | 3 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 5 |
| Jay | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Carrion Crow | 3 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 3 |
| Blue Tit | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 7 | 5 |
| Great Tit | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 4 | 3 | 4 |
| Skylark | 5 | 5 | 5 | 11 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 3 |
| Swallow | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1? | 2 * | |
| Cetti’s Warbler | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 4 | ||
| Long-tailed Tit | 2 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 5 | 4 |
| Chiffchaff | 2 | 3 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Willow Warbler | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 4 | |
| Blackcap | 4 | 4 | 4 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 |
| Lesser Whitethroat | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | ||||
| Whitethroat | 13 | 10 | 7 | 7 | 12 | 15 | 13 | 13 |
| Sedge Warbler | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | |||
| Reed Warbler | 8 | 8 | 6 | 10 | 6 | 10 | 7 | 9 |
| Grasshopper Warbler | 1 | |||||||
| Wren | 18 | 20 | 23 | 41 | 25 | 26 | 40 | 40 |
| Starling | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | ||||
| Blackbird | 14 | 7 | 4 | 20 | 7 | 12 | 9 | 20 |
| Song Thrush | 5 | 4 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 12 |
| Robin | 16 | 9 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 12 |
| Dunnock | 18 | 12 | 22 | 12 | 14 | 10 | 23 | 15 |
| House Sparrow | 2 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | ||
| Grey Wagtail | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | |
| Meadow Pipit | 1? | 1? | ||||||
| Chaffinch | 3 | 3 | 4 | 1 | 1? | |||
| Bullfinch | 3 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Greenfinch | 8 | 4 | 4 | 12 | 11 | 21 | 20 | 20 |
| Linnet | 9 | 7 | 6 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 4 |
| Goldfinch | 7 | 4 | 6 | 20 | 12 | 20 | 12 | 24 |
| Reed Bunting | 4 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 5 |