APPENDICES

APPENDIX I

SSSI Unit Information

Appendix I. SSSI unit information

Latest Assessment Landcover 2000/Aerial ID SSSI Name ENSIS Unit ID Unit Area (ha) Unit Condition Condition Assessment Comments Main Habitat (from Citation) Inventory Habitats Reason for Notification Management Comments Notes Date photograph/Phase 1 habitats 1011463 Dee Estuary 1000595 811 Favourable 31/03/2004 Littoral sediment Littoral Sediments, Sea/Estuary Littoral sediment Assessment based on Dee Estuary NVC survey completed by Dargie in 2000. The survey reported a good level of species diversity with a 90% loss Broadleaved Woodland, Improved in Spartina. Despite being backed by hard coastal defences there is good 1011464 Dee Estuary 1000595 690 Favourable 30/03/2004 Littoral sediment Grassland, Littoral Rock, Littoral Mudflats, level of naturalness; environmental influence of tidal inundation of Dee Sediments, Saltmarsh Estuary interacts strongly, complete communities sequences from low to high marsh, excellent examples of succession and zonation. The Dee Estuary/Aber Afon Dyfrdwy is of special interest for its total populations of internationally important wintering waterfowl; its populations of individual waterfowl and tern species whose numbers reach national and in some cases, internationally important levels; its intertidal mud and sandflats, saltmarsh and transitional habitats; the hard rocky Seven pages covering management on Natural England sandstone cliffs of Hilbre Island and Middle Eye with The Dee Estuary has been designated website. Factors regarded as most important include: i. A precautionary approach was adopted in the management of this fishery Broadleaved Woodland, Improved their cliff vegetation and maritime heathland and as a Ramsar Site under the Ramsar Coastal processes including sedimentation and during the 2004 season resulting in the fishery not being opened due to Grassland, Neutral Grassland, Acid grassland; its assemblage of nationally scarce plants; Convention of Wetlands of Coastal Sand Dunes, Deciduous Woodland, erosion/coastal defence and sea level changes ii. Water 1011465 Dee Estuary 1000595 3684 Unfavourable Recovering 07/03/2004 insufficient cockle stocks. The application for a Regulatory Order has been Littoral sediment Grassland, Bare Ground, Supra Littoral and its populations of sandhill rustic moth Luperina International Importance and as a MIre Fen Bog, Reedbed Quantity iii. Pollution and water quality iv. Development sent to DEFRA which, once in place, will help ensure sustainable Sediment, Littoral Rock, Littoral nickerlii gueneei, Red Data Book species. The estuary Special Protection Area (SPA) under v. Port facilities including navigational/operational management principles are promoted in the management of this fishery. Sediments, Saltmarsh, Sea/Estuary supports internationally important populations of a the EC Birds Directive (79/409) in July requirements vi. Recreation/Human Disturbance vii. number of wader species. Nationally important 1985. Fishing viii. Agricultural land management numbers of ringed plover Charadrius hiaticula are regularly seen on passage. In addition, the summering flock of non-breeding black-tailed godwit, one of the largest in the United Kingdom, is regarded as of national importance. In addition, the summering flock of non-breeding black-tailed godwit, one of the largest in the United Kingdom, is regarded as of national impo Some work being done to maintain (via repointing) Victorian block work stabilising cliffs on SW corner near lifeboat station. Additional blockwork been put in to try to stabilise cliffs adjacent to track onto Hilbre. Concerns Broadleaved Woodland, Supra Littoral 1011466 Dee Estuary 1000595 56 Favourable 30/08/2001 expressed by management committee about process of erosion, but some Inland rock Sediment, Littoral Sediments, 0 acceptance that is natural process. Rock sea lavender populations doing well Saltmarsh and expanding. Seal populations doing well on adjacent sand bank (peak count 550 this year). Broadleaved Woodland, Supra Littoral 1011466 Dee Estuary 1000595 56 Favourable 31/08/2001 Inland rock Sediment, Littoral Sediments, 0 Saltmarsh The site is underlain by Triassic sandstone over which Low intensity grazing is a suitable means of managing podsolic soils have developed and consists of a areas of dry heath. Generally areas of wet heath require number of small deep water worn valleys. These soils limited management but light grazing may also be useful support a fine representative dry heathland for maintaining the variation in vegetation composition community which has been invaded by bracken, birch and structure, and for controlling invasive grasses such oak woodland and gorse scrub. Damp heath and as purple-moor grass. Alternatively, cutting or mowing acidic marshy grassland has developed along some o Heathland restoration works are addressing the increase in scrub and may be useful options for managing dry heath where a Broadleaved Woodland, Improved the natural water courses. Heswall Dales is regarded 1011508 Heswall Dales 1002996 30 Unfavourable Recovering 16/11/2004 bracken through a combination of WES and Countryside Stewardship over Dwarf shrub heath - lowland Fens,Lowland Heath, mosaic of patches of heather of different ages is desired Grasslandland as the second best example of lowland heath in the majority of the site. Management should ensure the predominantly open Merseyside. It is ranked second to Thurstaston nature of the dry and wet heathland vegetation is Common which is larger and botanically more maintained, but there is some benefit in retaining a few diverse. The wet areas are the most interesting scattered individual trees. Water levels within areas of botanically and contain such species as many-stalked wet heath should be maintained to avoid adverse spike rush Eleocharis multicaulis and green-ribbed changes to the characteristic plant composition of the sedge Carex binervis, both of which have a very habitat. localised distribution in Merseyside.

The Dungeon is a small wooded ravine a quarter of a mile to the north-west of Heswall, which shows a natural stream section through the Tarporley Siltstone Formation of the Mercia Mudstone Group, of Triassic The ideal management for natural inland geological sites age. At the south-west end of the section the faulted is the maintenance of rock exposure free of vegetation contact with the older Wilmslow Sandstone Formation and, in some cases, the build-up of rock debris. The feature appears to be in much the same state as previous assessment. is seen. The Tarporley Siltstone section is similar to Broadleaved Woodland, Improved Management usually involves periodic clearance of 1011632 The Dungeon 1002901 1 Favourable 19/12/2005 Minor impacts are graffiti and fires being lit in the "cave". Vegetation is kept aEarth heritage 0 that in other parts of the Cheshire basin, being made Grasslandland vegetation and rock debris. Vegetation growth is a bay by regular usage up of red fine sandstones and siltstones, with parallel problem on many sites, because erosion rates are usuall and rippled bedding, and salt pseudomorphs. Current too low to naturally maintain fresh exposure of the ripple crests indicate that sediment transport was geological features. towards the northwest. Sediments and sedimentary structures in these rocks make it possible to infer that they were deposited in a marine intertidal environment.

Thurstaston Common is the largest and best Dry and wet lowland heath. Low intensity grazing is a remaining example of a lowland heathland in suitable means of managing areas of dry heath. Merseyside. It is similar in character to Heswall Dales, Generally areas of wet heath require limited managemen but its larger size and the fact that it contains better but light grazing may also be useful for maintaining the examples of wet and dry heath gives it pre-eminence variation in vegetation composition and structure, and for over the Heswall site. Thurstaston Common is controlling invasive grasses such as purple-moor grass. situated 3 km north-west of Heswall and is underlain By feeding selectively in different areas and on different It is clear from the walk over of the site that significant effort has been put in by Triassic sandstone. Podzolic soils have developed plants, free-roaming livestock help to maintain variation to the control of scrub encroachment on the areas of open heath land. over the sandstone which support characteristic in the vegetation composition and structure. Broadleaved However parts of the heath still have a problem with encroachments of trees Broadleaved Woodland, Coniferous heathland vegetation including wet heath, dry heath, Thurstaston semi-natural woodland. Where good quality areas of 1011651 1003730 72 Unfavourable Recovering 24/01/2008 especially at the south east side of the site. Therefore the site still falls in as Dwarf shrub heath - lowland Woodland, Improved Grasslandland, Deciduous Woodland,Lowland Heath, acidic marshy grassland and birch-oak woodland. The Common woodland exist that do not compromise the extent of unfavourable. However given the significant work in to controlling trees on th Neutral Grassland wetter areas contain the most interesting heathland on this site, parts of the woodland should be heath the site is recovering. Tree encroachment is still a problem and on assemblages of plants including oblong-leaved left unmanaged to benefit species that do best under low going works are still needed until the root of the problem can be addressed. sundew Drosera intermedia, a species with a very disturbance or in response to natural processes. Within local distribution, as well as round-leaved sundew D. these areas some trees will eventually die naturally and rotundifolia. Thurstaston Common provides an dead wood accumulate. Disused quarries, pits and important habitat for passage, wintering and breeding cuttings (ED sites). The main threats to the conservation birds. Sparrowhawk, tawny owl, great spotted of disused quarries, pits and cuttings are landfill and woodpecker, lesser spotted woodpecker, jay, redpoll developments which obscure the geological features. and linnet are amongst the birds known to regularly Such developments should be avoided where possible. breed on the site. Broadleaved Woodland, Coniferous Thurstaston 1011651 1003730 72 Unfavourable Recovering 24/01/2008 Dwarf shrub heath - lowland Woodland, Improved Grasslandland, Deciduous Woodland,Lowland Heath, Common Neutral Grassland A high percentage of grasses in the sward is dominating this unit to the north of the railway and to the south overgrazing is still a problem. Phragmites is encroaching from the ditches but management is keeping these at bay. Rank Coastal floodplain or Grazing marsh, 1011652 Meols Meadows 1002718 4 Unfavourable No Change 24/06/2005 Neutral grassland - lowland Neutral Grassland areas of grassland exist alongside the railway and bordering the site to the Grasslands,Lowland Meadow, west. The area of marshy grassland still exists although no standing water was present at time of visit. Coastal floodplain or Grazing marsh, 1011652 Meols Meadows 1002718 4 Unfavourable No Change Neutral Grassland Grasslands,Lowland Meadow,

Page 1 of 5 Appendix I. SSSI unit information

Latest Assessment Landcover 2000/Aerial ID SSSI Name ENSIS Unit ID Unit Area (ha) Unit Condition Condition Assessment Comments Main Habitat (from Citation) Inventory Habitats Reason for Notification Management Comments Notes Date photograph/Phase 1 habitats The meadow immediately adjacent to unit 1 is dominated by Phragmites australis. The edges of this field are dominated by thistles and taller rank Coastal floodplain or Grazing 1011653 Meols Meadows 1002718 3 Unfavourable No Change 24/06/2005 vegetation. However, the other fields of this unit contain better condition Neutral grassland - lowland Neutral Grassland marsh,Grasslands, neutral grassland mixed with marshy grassland in some areas which is a characteristic of this particular SSSI. The site is underlain by Triassic Sherwood Sandstones, covered by river alluvium on boulder clay. The main habitat is damp unimproved neutral grassland, the level fields being separated by ditches containing tall fen vegetation. This site is the best example of the crested dog’s-tail–common knapweed type of grassland known in Greater Manchester and Neutral hay meadows require active management if they Merseyside. It is characterised by the dominant are to retain their conservation interest. In order to There is a range of grassland communities across the site ranging from grasses red fescue/common bent/sweet vernal-grass maintain a species-rich sward, each year’s growth of neutral grassland to marshy grassland together with reedbed and scrub Festuca rubra/Agrostis capillaris/Anthoxanthum vegetation must be removed. For the damper meadows, habiats. The grassland communities are changing in the absence of Coastal floodplain or Grazing odoratum and the occurrence of betony Stachys 1011654 Meols Meadows 1002718 1 Unfavourable Declining 24/06/2005 Neutral grassland - lowland Neutral Grassland regular and careful maintenance of surface drainage management. Influences such as hydrology (there is standing water evident marsh,Grasslands,Lowland Meadow, officinalis, cowslip Primula veris, pepper saxifrage including ditches and drains can be necessary to prevent on site on occasions), pressure from nearby development and reed and scru Silaum silaus, green-winged orchid Orchis morio and adverse changes in the plant species composition of the encroachment affect the habitats present on the site. dyer’s greenweed Genista tinctoria. Several of the sward. Deepening of surface drainage should be species present are rare in Merseyside, these being avoided. greater pond sedge, meadow barley, green-winged orchid, cowslip and pepper saxifrage. Other species o restricted occurrence in Merseyside include quaking grass, yellow oat-grass, meadow cranesbill, dyer’s greenweed and adder’s-tongue Ophioglossum vulgatum. A locally rare saltmarsh money spider Minirialoides trifons also occurs.

Relatively undisturbed woodland unit which is the main factor contributing to favourable condition of this unit. Regeneration fine but need to keep an eye Broadleaved, mixed and yew woodland - Broadleaved Woodland, Improved ancient woodland,Deciduous Woodland, 1011678 Dibbinsdale 1002884 5 Favourable 06/06/2005 on regeneration of canopy species to ensure sufficient is present to maintain lowland Grassland, Neutral Grassland Fens,Reedbed, Wet Woodland woodland canopy. Pressure from road, houses and agricultural management around unit may prevent further increase in extent. Broadleaved, mixed and yew woodland - Broadleaved Woodland, Improved ancient woodland,Deciduous Woodland, 1011678 Dibbinsdale 1002884 5 Favourable 06/06/2005 lowland Grassland, Neutral Grassland Fens,Reedbed, Wet Woodland The majority of the site lies along Dibbinsdale Brook with a small area along Clatter Brook. The underlying rocks are Triassic Sandstones of the Sherwood A diverse woodland structure with some open space, Sandstone Group with dry acidic brown earth soils on some areas of dense understorey, and an overstorey of the upper slopes and wetter base-rich alluvial soil at more mature trees (which may be the standard trees the base of the slope.The main habitats included are under a coppice-with-standards regime) is important. A semi-natural broad-leaved woodland, which covers range of ages and species within and between stands is most of the site, reed swamp, fen pasture and neutral desirable. Open spaces, either temporary gaps created grassland. This is the largest block of semi-natural This woodland unit shows greater signs of disturbance and a higher by felling or coppicing or more permanent areas such as woodland of its type in Merseyside and it contains proportion of undesirable species leading to patchy or shaded out ground Broadleaved, mixed and yew woodland - Broadleaved Woodland, Improved ancient woodland,Deciduous Woodland, rides and glades, benefit other groups of invertebrates 1011679 Dibbinsdale 1002884 7 Unfavourable No Change 06/06/2005 typical examples of ash-wych elm and valley alder flora in places. Insufficient regeneration of canopy species could be a lowland Grassland, Neutral Grassland Fens,MIre Fen Bog,Reedbed, Wet Woodland such as butterflies. Felling, thinning or coppicing may be woodland, each of which supports a rich flora and problem long term. used to create or maintain variations in the structure of fauna. Woodland in the valley of Dibbinsdale and the wood, and non-native trees and shrubs can be Clatter Brook has been recorded since 1818 although removed at this time. Deer management and protection it is likely that some parts of the wood are much older. from rabbits or livestock are often necessary. Whilst light Dibbinsdale is important for birds with 61 species or intermittent grazing may increase woodland diversity, breeding regularly including tawny owl, kingfisher, heavy browsing can damage the ground flora and green woodpecker, great spotted woodpecker, prevent successful regeneration. nuthatch, tree creeper, willow tit and grasshopper warbler. Dibbinsdale contains a rich invertebrate fauna especially molluscs which are associated with the calc

Broadleaved, mixed and yew woodland - Broadleaved Woodland, Improved ancient woodland,Deciduous Woodland, 1011679 Dibbinsdale 1002884 7 Unfavourable No Change 06/06/2005 lowland Grassland, Neutral Grassland Fens,MIre Fen Bog,Reedbed, Wet Woodland Undesirable species are a problem in places such as beech which is locally Broadleaved, mixed and yew woodland - ancient woodland,Deciduous Woodland, 1011680 Dibbinsdale 1002884 5 Unfavourable No Change 06/06/2005 dominant and there is frequent regeneration as well as locally dominant Broadleaved Woodland lowland Fens,Reedbed, Wet Woodland laurel, rhododendron and Japanese knotweed. This unit forms part of Dibbinsdale/Brotherton Park LNR where recreational pressure is a factor found frequently throughout the unit which is impacting on the woodland condition. A good gradation from the neutral grassland area Broadleaved, mixed and yew woodland - Broadleaved Woodland, Improved ancient woodland,Deciduous Woodland, 1011681 Dibbinsdale 1002884 18 Unfavourable No Change 08/04/2005 to scrub, tall herb fen, wet woodland and swamp in the valley bottom exists. lowland Grassland Fens,Reedbed, Wet Woodland The wet woodland remains largely undisturbed other than by natural processes. The majority of the woodland exhibits characteristic species composition and good ground flora with some areas largely undisturbed and in good condition. A high incidence of sycamore is present in the canopy and regeneration with Broadleaved, mixed and yew woodland - Broadleaved Woodland, Neutral ancient woodland,Deciduous Woodland, 1011682 Dibbinsdale 1002884 12 Unfavourable No Change 06/06/2005 other canopy species occurring rarely. Although access is formally restricted lowland Grassland Fens,Reedbed, Wet Woodland to a permissive pathway there are several paths running up to the houses and railway through the woodland which is impacting on the ground flora. Broadleaved, mixed and yew woodland - Broadleaved Woodland, Neutral ancient woodland,Deciduous Woodland, 1011682 Dibbinsdale 1002884 12 Unfavourable No Change 06/06/2005 lowland Grassland Fens,Reedbed, Wet Woodland Recent management has in recent years been focused on improving the quality of the swamp area in the valley bottom. Patrick's Wood is managed by CWT but it is treated as a non-intervention site. The woodland condition Broadleaved, mixed and yew woodland - Broadleaved Woodland, Improved ancient woodland,Deciduous Woodland, 1011683 Dibbinsdale 1002884 8 Unfavourable No Change 08/04/2005 here is favourable with good structure and a lack of disturbance. However, lowland Grassland, Neutral Grassland Fens,Reedbed, negative factors contributing to unfavourable condition of this unit are a high proportion of invasive species (principally rhododendron) in the woodland north side of Dibbinsdale Brook and frequent signs of human disturbance.

Natterjack toads (Coastal dune habitats). Natterjack toads require a mosaic of terrestrial and aquatic habitats, including extensive areas of July 2002 - windblown sand (~200tonnes) collected from promenade at West bare ground with scattered patches of Kirby dumped in front of yellow dunes at northern end of site adjacent to vegetation, Scrub colonisation can Stanley Road slipway. Wirral MBC asked to stop dumping of sand until reduce the suitability of sand dune 1011689 Red Rocks 1003697 3 Favourable 10/07/2002 Supralittoral rock Neutral Grassland coastal Sand Dunes,MIre Fen Bog,Reedbed, Appropriate Assessment was submitted and approved. March 2002 - habitats for the natterjack toad by natterjack toad scrape #2 cleared of Scirpus sp. and deepened by Wirral decreasing the area of bare ground MBC. Action - agreed management with EN. available for foraging. This may also encourage other amphibians to colonise that are better suited to the shadier conditions, and so some scrub control may be necessary.

Page 2 of 5 Appendix I. SSSI unit information

Latest Assessment Landcover 2000/Aerial ID SSSI Name ENSIS Unit ID Unit Area (ha) Unit Condition Condition Assessment Comments Main Habitat (from Citation) Inventory Habitats Reason for Notification Management Comments Notes Date photograph/Phase 1 habitats Sand-dunes The management of dune systems should take into account the need to maintain the range of habitats and associated species reflecting the different This site contains a typical example of a sand dune stages of succession, by maintaining (or restoring where system and includes a brackish dune slack and necessary) the natural processes and dynamics of dune reedbed. Although these dunes are much less development and succession. Without management extensive than those on the Sefton coast, the intervention, a mix of dune scrub and woodland may presence of an extensive brackish slack and reedbed, eventually replace the habitats on stable areas of the a habitat type not well developed in the Sefton coast dune. Selective scrub management and grazing or dunes, and a highly diverse flora and fauna, which mowing may be necessary. Where light grazing has includes a number of local and national rareties, still 1011690 Red Rocks 1003697 6 Favourable 10/07/2002 Saltmarsh vegetation developing and aiding embryo dune formation. Supralittoral rock Neutral Grassland Coastal Sand Dunes,MIre Fen Bog,Reedbed, traditionally been practised, this prevents the invasion of makes this an important site for nature conservation in scrub and it should be continued. The effects of non- Merseyside. The rarest plant to have been discovered domestic grazing animals, such as rabbits, should also on this site is Mackay’s horsetail Equisetum 3 be taken into account. Other management options that trachydon, for which Red Rocks is the only English might be appropriate include mowing to remove rank locality. The wet slacks are important breeding sites vegetation and in extreme situations can include turf for frogs, common toads and natterjack toads. The stripping, which is useful for recreating the younger last species is now very rare and protected under stages of slack formation. Swamp Management should Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981. either seek to retain swamp communities in the same place or should acknowledge the dynamics of succession by ensuring there is always a new niche for the swamp c 1011693 Red Rocks 1003697 3 Favourable 10/07/2002 Saltmarsh vegetation developing and aiding embryo dune formation. Supralittoral rock Neutral Grassland, Littoral Sediments Coastal Sand Dunes,MIre Fen Bog,Reedbed,

The conservation objective for the site now accommodates the maritime cliff grassland and maritime scrub as integral features in line with CSM guidance which meant that this unit failed under previous assessment. This unit accommodates both the geological feature and the maritime grassland and Broadleaved woodland, Neutral Grasslands,Lowland Meadow, Maritime cliff 1011729 Dee Cliffs 1002872 13 Unfavourable Recovering 12/04/2006 Supralittoral rock scrub. Access steps have been reinstalled at Tinker's Dell where minimal Grassland, littoral sediment, Saltmarsh, slope, disturbance to the grassland habitat was recommended. some drainage pipes fed through the cliffs which need investigating and removing to increase the naturalness of the cliff geological feature.

This site contains the best known example of clay cliff Maritime slope and soft cliffs key management principle and bank habitat in Merseyside as well as some marl for soft cliffs and slopes is to allow natural pits which have a rich flora and fauna and an area of geomorphological coastal processes, such as cliff herb-rich neutral grassland.The clay cliffs support an recession and slumping, to proceed freely. Although the open grassland community which is dominated by red cliff may erode, colonisation and succession ensures that fescue Festuca rubra but there is also much bare vegetation communities can adjust to changing cliff ground. The herb flora is rich with a wide range of morphology. Active geomorphological and coastal lime-loving plants present, some of which are at the processes are essential for the constant renewal of marl pits not receiving any conservation management. due to lack of directio northern limits of their British distribution. The geological exposures and for maintaining the range of from English Nature and conflicting demands with the site being managed as maritime influence is seen in the presence of sand Grasslands,Lowland Meadow, Maritime cliff habitats and associated species that reflect the different 1011730 Dee Cliffs 1002872 2 Unfavourable No Change 12/04/2006 a recreation resource. Typha is dominant in some ponds as is Stratiotes. TheNeutral grassland - lowland Neutral Grassland couch Elytriga juncea, lyme-grass lymus arenarius, slope, stages of cliff formation and succession. Maritime cliff diversity of species appears to have reduced although some are still present sea rocket Cakile maritima and sand sedge Carex grassland Where grazing is still practised, it should around margins. arenaria. The marl pits contain aquatic vegetation, continue. Where grazing has lapsed, reintroduction emergent vegetation, marshy grassland and willow should be given careful consideration. Where grazing- carr. Other parts of the site include some scrub and sensitive species are present, grazing should not be neutral grassland. The coastal cliff sections show a introduced. Neutral pasture In order to maintain a sequence of sands and gravels interbedded between species-rich sward, each year’s growth of vegetation two till units. Thurstaston Geological Conservation must be removed. On pasture land this management is Review (GCR) site is included within this site which is achieved by grazing this should aim to keep a relatively important for the study of Late Devensian glacial open sward without causing excessive poaching. deposits

Good numbers of ducks and waders present. The Annual report by Mersey Conservancy has reported frequent migration in main and sub-channels. In 1982, Fairhurst & Buxton reported that the banks were dominated by glasswort Salicornia, which had been present for 6 years. They predicted tha 1011743 Mersey Estuary 1001398 2639 Favourable 12/02/2004 the marsh would continue to develop, though not significantly, with cordgrassLittoral sediment Littoral sediment Littoral sediment Spartina occurring in the near future. By 2002, 8.96 ha of saltmarsh or associated swamp were present. The biggest component of this (3.88 ha) was common saltmarsh-grass Puccinellia dominated. Spartina-dominated vegetation covered 1.13 ha but Salicornia covered only 0.06 ha.

Historical problems of uncontrolled access and illegal use is likely to be resolved through the Speke Coastal Part project by Liverpool City Council and Peel Holdings. Cliffs remain in reasonable state with natural erosion and movement. Current hard defences limited to the Garston end, no pressure fo 1011744 Mersey Estuary 1001398 112 Favourable 23/02/2004 stabilisation apart from possible pressure in the airport area and possible Supralittoral rock Supralittoral rock Supralittoral rock increased erosion. Since 1982, accretion along these banks has continued with a band of vegetation stretching along the whole length of the unit to Garston. The total extent of saltmarsh cover in 2002 was 14.93 ha, of which 9.4 ha was dominated by Spartina.

The 2002 NVC Survey report an extent of 21.7 ha of saltmarsh habitat, mainly consisting of SM6 and SM13. It is suggested that this is currently eroding. Overall extent: Burd 1986 746.91 ha. 2002 NVC survey 724.1 ha. 1011745 Mersey Estuary 1001398 158 Favourable 12/02/2004 Littoral sediment Littoral Sediments, Sea/Estuary Littoral sediment Saltmarsh for Mersey in state of flux with area of erosion and accretion. Othe attributes meeting generic targets part from the presence of Spartina, which is a historical issue but controlled by natural change in the Estuary.

Decoy under positive management by Halton MBC (Paul Oldfield), with a management plan in place for active woodland restoration, and especially Hale Duck Decoy is a scheduled appropriate water level management which caused the original decline in Ancient Monument and is managed as 1011748 Mersey Estuary 1001398 3 Unfavourable Recovering 23/08/2003 Standing open water and canals Inland Water condition. Decoy has been used by high numbers of birds. Pintail Teal and a reserve by Cheshire Conservation Shelduck have high counts and have been seen on this and previous visits to Trust. the site. Management plan for the Decoy was drafted in October 2001.

Unit visited with RSPB, with good numbers of ducks and waders present. Broadleaved Woodland, Improved 1011750 Mersey Estuary 1001398 1965 Favourable 21/07/2003 The Annual report by Mersey Conservancy has reported frequent migration i Littoral sediment Grasslandland, Neutral Grassland, calc Deciduous Woodland,Mudflats, main and sub-channels. grass, Littoral Sediments, Sea/Estuary

Page 3 of 5 Appendix I. SSSI unit information

Latest Assessment Landcover 2000/Aerial ID SSSI Name ENSIS Unit ID Unit Area (ha) Unit Condition Condition Assessment Comments Main Habitat (from Citation) Inventory Habitats Reason for Notification Management Comments Notes Date photograph/Phase 1 habitats with both temporary and permanent pools present. The maintenance of a mosaic of shallow surface pools and un The 2002 NVC survey assessed the saltmarsh habitat in Unit 9: This unit flooded areas during the winter will provide roosting and covers the landward part of the saltmarsh at Ince Banks. It mostly comprised feeding habitat for wintering wildfowl and waders. From extensive rank SM13a Puccinellia maritima saltmarsh Puccinellia sub- April onwards, the area of standing surface water should community with just small scattered stands of SM6 Spartina anglica be reduced to increase the area available for nesting saltmarsh towards the seaward edge. At the western end of the unit was a 1011751 Mersey Estuary 1001398 372 Favourable 21/07/2003 Littoral sediment Littoral Sediments, Sea/Estuary Littoral sediment waders and also by concentrating aquatic invertebrates small area of upper marsh comprising SM16 c Festuca rubra saltmarsh in small pools to provide suitable feeding areas for their Glaux maritima sub-community and MG11a Festuca rubra - Agrostis young. Some shallow areas of flooding should be stolonifera - Potentilla anserina grassland Lolium perenne sub-community. maintained until late June to provide patches of bare The saltmarsh of this Unit was eroding where it bounded the estuary mud- muddy ground on which the birds and their young can flats at its western end. feed as raised sward height makes feeding on the drier areas more difficult.

The Mersey Estuary is an internationally important siteLittoral sediments (mud and sand flats) Management for wildfowl and consists of large areas of intertidal needs to create space to enable landward roll-back to sand and mudflats. The site also includes an area of take place in response to sea-level rise, and should also reclaimed marshland, salt-marshes, brackish marshesallow the system to be dynamic and retain the flexibility and boulder clay cliffs with freshwater seepages. The to respond to associated changes such as the movemen Manchester Ship Canal forms part of the southern of physical features within the system, e.g. migrating boundary of the site and separates a series of pools subtidal sandbanks. Coastal saltmarsh. Where Site visited with RSPB on several occasions in 2003 finding high bird from the main estuary. These pools together with Halesaltmarshes require management this has traditionally numbers especially shelduck. Saltmarsh for Mersey in state of flux with area Marsh are important roosting sites for wildfowl and been achieved by grazing, and previously used regimes of erosion and accretion, with no overall loss of a level to be concerned. Area waders at high tide. Throughout the winter the estuaryshould be continued. Care should be taken not to 1011752 Mersey Estuary 1001398 122 Favourable 21/07/2003 of saltmarsh for unit 10 is 74.66ha. Unit 10 with 11 forms the Stanlow Banks, Littoral sediment Littoral Sediments, Sea/Estuary Littoral sediment supports large numbers of wildfowl and waders. The overgraze the site, as this may reduce the diversity of in 1976/77 220ha, eroded to 140ha in 1982. In 2002 111.64ha evidence birds feed on the rich invertebrate fauna of the animal and plant species that the saltmarsh is able to suggests that erosion is at reduced rate evidence by bank profile and intertidal sediments as well as plants and seeds from support, as well as potentially impact the sediments indicator species. the salt-marsh and adjacent agricultural land. The supporting the saltmarsh. Wet grassland with breeding estuary is also a valuable staging post for migrating and wintering bird interest. Wet grassland requires active birds in spring and autumn. In 1980–81 the estuary management if it is to retain its conservation interest. had the highest monthly count of wildfowl of any Generally, each year’s growth of vegetation must be British site; 57,700 birds. On the north side of the removed. Partial winter flooding is estuary, part of the coastline is formed by boulder clayimportant in maintaining suitable habitat conditions for cliffs. wintering birds. A mosaic of winter flooded grassland an This unit covers the eroding seaward part of the saltmarsh at Ince Banks. It comprised extensive rank SM13a Puccinellia maritima saltmarsh Puccinellia 1011756 Mersey Estuary 1001398 280 Favourable 21/07/2003 Littoral sediment Littoral Sediments, Sea/Estuary Littoral sediment sub-community with just small scattered stands of SM6 Spartina anglica saltmarsh towards the seaward edge. Good numbers of ducks and waders present. The Annual report by Mersey Conservancy has reported frequent migration in main and sub-channels. Unit 1011757 Mersey Estuary 1001398 980 Favourable 12/02/2004 Littoral sediment Littoral Sediments, Sea/Estuary Littoral sediment has rapidly accreting saltmarsh. In 1982 area of 7.8ha. In 2002 NVC survey measured area of 147.54 ha. North Wirral Lower numbers of waders. Localised clumps of Spartina at SJ21898958. Improved Grasslandland, Littoral 1013417 1003676 1065 Favourable 26/03/2004 Littoral sediment 0 Foreshore Extent appears to be unchanged. Sediments, Saltmarsh Good numbers of gulls and waders, mainly Redshank and Curlew. Report of Broadleaved Woodland, calc grass, North Wirral cockle fishing by Paul in area around SJ26519205. Some low scale bait 1013418 1003676 807 Favourable 26/03/2004 Littoral sediment Acid Grassland, Littoral Rock, Littoral Coastal floodplain or Grazing marsh, Foreshore digging, but increased scale at SJ24189112 with car tyres and pipes on Sediments, Saltmarsh foreshore. Extent appears to be unchanged Broadleaved Woodland, calc grass, North Wirral 1013418 1003676 807 Favourable 26/03/2004 Littoral sediment Acid Grassland, Littoral Rock, Littoral Coastal floodplain or Grazing marsh, Foreshore Sediments, Saltmarsh Broadleaved Woodland, calc grass, North Wirral 1013418 1003676 807 Favourable 26/03/2004 Littoral sediment Acid Grassland, Littoral Rock, Littoral Coastal floodplain or Grazing marsh, Foreshore Sediments, Saltmarsh

North Wirral Foreshore is located between the outer Littoral sediments (mud and sand flats) Management Dee and Mersey Estuaries. This site is an area of needs to create space to enable landward roll-back to intertidal sand and mudflats and embryonic saltmarsh take place in response to sea-level rise, and should also which is of considerable importance as a feeding and allow the system to be dynamic and retain the flexibility roosting site for passage and wintering flocks of to respond to associated changes such as the movemen waders, wildfowl, terns and gulls. Whilst North Wirral Good numbers of gulls and waders, mainly Redshank and Curlew, of physical features within the system, e.g. migrating Foreshore is not comparable with either the Dee North Wirral occasional Oystercatcher. Some very low scale bait digging. Site will be part subtidal sandbanks. Coastal saltmarsh. Where 1013419 1003676 89 Favourable 26/03/2004 Littoral sediment Littoral Sediments, Saltmarsh 0 Estuary or the Mersey Estuary in terms of the Foreshore of 2004 Biotope Survey which will also make condition assessment saltmarshes require management this has traditionally numbers and diversity of passage and wintering birds, according to Common Standards Guidance. been achieved by grazing, and previously used regimes it is still of great value for the populations of knot, should be continued. Care should be taken not to dunlin and bar-tailed godwit it supports. The wintering overgraze the site, as this may reduce the diversity of populations of knot (20,000+), bar-tailed godwit animal and plant species that the saltmarsh is able to (2,000+) and dunlin (10,000+) are the most significant support, as well as potentially impact the sediments because their numbers regularly exceed 1% of their supporting the saltmarsh. total British and Iris wintering populations.

Portions of the cliff have become exposed by The saltmarsh is usually inundated by high spring tides. Concern was raised slumping, and in these areas a number of unusual 1016966 Mersey Estuary 1001398 24 Favourable 03/07/2003 over the current sward height which could affect favourable status if not Littoral sediment Littoral Sediments, Sea/Estuary Littoral sediment species occur including yellow-wort Blackstonia managed in future. Unit is currently under management agreement. perfoliata and bristly oxtongue Picris echioides, both o which are at the northern limits of their distribution. Site is currently grazed by horses, with sward becoming rank in ungrazed 1016974 Mersey Estuary 1001398 32 Favourable 03/07/2003 areas however this is not affecting status across the unit although is concern Littoral sediment Littoral Sediments, Sea/Estuary Littoral sediment for future management. Thurstaston 1018635 1003730 1 Favourable 20/02/2008 Earth heritage Broadleaved Woodland, Deciduous Woodland,Lowland Heath, Common Thurstaston 1018635 1003730 1 Favourable 20/02/2008 Earth heritage Broadleaved Woodland, Deciduous Woodland,Lowland Heath, Common Coastal saltmarsh Not all saltmarsh habitats require active management to retain their conservation interest. Where they are managed, historically this is often by grazing; it helps to provide a variety of different habitats, particularly important habitats for wintering bird species. If grazing ceases on these sites there may be a loss of Improved Grasslandland, Neutral 1025873 New Ferry 2000435 57 Favourable 04/05/2000 Littoral sediment Mudflats, botanical diversity in favour of some rank grass species. Grassland, Littoral Sediments There are a number of factors that are contributing to saltmarsh change that may need to be taken into consideration when managing this important habitat. These include coastal erosion as a result of coastal flood- defence works, rising sea-levels and variations in sediment deposition. Improved Grasslandland, Neutral 1025873 New Ferry 2000435 57 Favourable 04/05/2000 Littoral sediment Mudflats, Grassland, Littoral Sediments

Page 4 of 5 Appendix I. SSSI unit information

Latest Assessment Landcover 2000/Aerial ID SSSI Name ENSIS Unit ID Unit Area (ha) Unit Condition Condition Assessment Comments Main Habitat (from Citation) Inventory Habitats Reason for Notification Management Comments Notes Date photograph/Phase 1 habitats New Ferry is a natural embayment comprising intertidal sand and mudflats interspersed with shingle Littoral sediments (mud and sand flats) It is important and cobbles. Throughout the winter, New Ferry that management aims to maintain good water quality supports national important populations of both pintail and sediment quality. Management should also aim to and black-tailed godwit. These birds ut ilise the rich ensure that the sediment budget within the estuarine or Improved Grasslandland, Neutral invertebrate fauna of the intertidal mudflats. These coastal system is not restricted by anthropogenic 1025874 New Ferry 2000435 17 Favourable 04/05/2000 Littoral sediment Grassland, Littoral Sediments, Mudflats, remain exposed for a significant part of the tidal cycle, influences. Management needs to create space to enable Saltmarsh which makes them particularly important in terms of landward roll-back to take place in response to sea-level feeding time available to the birds; as such New Ferry rise and should also allow the system to be dynamic and is primarily a low water feeding site. The site contains retain the flexibility to respond to associated changes New Ferry Shore Site of Biological Importance, as such as the movement of physical features within the identified and declared by Wirral Metropolitan system, e.g. migrating subtidal sandbanks. Borough Council. Improved Grasslandland, Neutral 1025874 New Ferry 2000435 17 Favourable 04/05/2000 Littoral sediment Grassland, Littoral Sediments, Mudflats, Saltmarsh

Saline lagoons. Any management needs to be carefully tailored to the needs of each individual lagoon and should be based on an understanding of the natural features of importance and the external factors affecting the lagoon. Indeed, where a lagoon is in a good and stable condition, active management is unlikely to be necessary. Maintaining salinity and water depths can be a key management priority, particularly where some lagoons 1025876 Mersey Narrows 2000436 89 Favourable 04/05/2000 Littoral sediment Littoral Sediments, Sea/Estuary Mudflats, become increasingly separated from the sea as a result of natural coastal processes - the balance between freshwater (e.g. from rainfall, streams or artificial outputs) and saline (i.e. sea water) inputs may change as a result In some cases, dependant upon the conservation objectives for the lagoon, it may be desirable to allow vegetation to encroach into the lagoon, to increase the diversity of habitats present, particularly for some breeding and migratory bird species.

Littoral rock and sediments The key management principle for rocky shores is to allow natural processes, such as erosion and collapse of cliffs, to proceed freely. It is important that management aims to maintain good The site is notified for its large areas of intertidal sand water quality and sediment quality. Management should and mudflats, which support internationally important also aim to ensure that the sediment budget within the populations of turnstone Arenaria interpres, redshank estuarine or coastal system is not restricted by Tringa tetanus and nationally important populations of anthropogenic influences. Coastal saltmarsh Not all cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo. Seaforth also saltmarsh habitats require active management to retain supports a number of additional bird species of note. their conservation interest. Where they are managed, 1025877 Mersey Narrows 2000436 1 Favourable 04/05/2000 Littoral sediment Bare Ground, Littoral Sediments 0 This includes a number of breeding species, two of historically this is often by grazing; it helps to provide a which are considered to be of regional importance, variety of different habitats, particularly important habitats common term Sterna hirundoand ringed plover for wintering bird species. If grazing ceases on these Charadrius hiaticula. The site is also used regularly bysites there may be a loss of botanical diversity in favour migrating birds on passage, most significantly by of some rank grass species. There are a number of common tern and little gull Larus minutes. factors that are contributing to saltmarsh change that may need to be taken into consideration when managing this important habitat. These include coastal erosion as a result of coastal flood-defence works, rising sea-levels and variations in sediment deposition.

Page 5 of 5

APPENDIX II

SBI Detailed Information

Appendix II: SBI detailed information

Site Date of Whole Site WMBC main habitats (landcover 2000 and aerial NE habitat inventory Site Name Grid ref habitat from citation Survey Dates Descriptions % MBW Condition Management Code revision Area Area photographs) habitats Semi-natural oak/ash woodland within the Dibbinsdale complex, which was not scheduled within the SSSI ancient woodland Deciduous because of the number of planted exotic trees and the level of disturbance. However the disturbance has The Marfords B44 1997 SJ339811 Woodland-broadleaved(semi-natural) plants 1994 2.91 2.91 100.00 F POSITIVE broadleaved woodland, suburban/rural woodland Fens Reedbed decreased with the change of management and the ground flora is improving. Ancient woodland indicator species Wet woodland present include wood anemone, opposite-leaved golden saxifrage, wood sorrel and a large amounts of ramsons.

Although largely a mixed deciduous woodland with oak, beech and silver birch, the site also contains old pleasure Woodland-mixed (plantation), grassland- grounds, grasslands, coastal cliffs and gorse scrub. Part of the woodland has rich ground flora including bluebell broadleaved woodland, improved grassland, continuous ancient woodland Deciduous Eastham Woods B50 1999 SJ363816 improved, Rock-natural, open water-standing plants 1994, bats 1999 and wood sorrel, but much is heavily used and with limited ground flora. The ornithological interest is considerab 26.87 26.87 100.00 F POSITIVE urban, neutral grassland, calcareous grassland woodland Wet woodland water, Scrub with a range of breeding bird species including all three woodpeckers, nuthatch and redpoll. The area also includes the adjacent rocky foreshore with permo-triassic sandstone and quaternary clay cliffs. A valuable series of 14 ponds with a range of wetland vegetation, together with a species-rich area of neutral grassland. The ponds exhibit all stages of aquatic succession from open water to dry land. Open water is present in most ponds with floating aquatics such as broad-leaved pondweed and duckweed. Marginal and swamp communities are often dominated by bulrush but also contain water chickweed, ivy-leaved crowfoot and liverwort. Open water - standing water, Grassland - neutral improved grassland, broadleaved woodland, calcareous ancient woodland Deciduous Hargrave House Farm PondsB46 No access SJ339797 plants 1986, inverts 1986 Marshy areas are characteristically represented by soft rush and creeping bent but also support common club- 10.09 10.09 100.00 UNKNOWN UNKNOWN (semi-improved), Grassland-improved grassland woodland Wet woodland ruch, six-stemmed starwort and cyperus sedge. Willow carr is present round some of the ponds whilst several have mature trees of oak, sycamore and ash growing on their banks, also two native black poplar trees. The ban and surrounding grassland are particularly interesting and support such species as royal fern, primrose and pepper-saxifrage. Valley woodland within the dibbinsdale complex with a diverse, mixed-age range of trees, dominated by oak, ash and sycamore, showing much regeneration. The drier valley slopes grade down to the flatter, wetter valley floor POSITIVE Woodland -broadleave(semi-natural), open water where alder forms the canopy and grey willow forms the understorey. There is a rich, continuous and diverse broadleaved woodland, improved grassland, ancient woodland Deciduous Plymyard Dale B47 1998 SJ339804 plants 1998, bryophytes 1984/5 8.69 8.69 100.00 F AND running ground flora with several ancient woodland indicator species such as opposite-leaved golden saxifrage, sanicle suburban/rural woodland Wet woodland NEGATIVE and wood anemone. There is a good range of breeding bird species. Some plots have been converted to formal gradens. A linear series of habitats behind the Wallasey embankments ranging through remnant dunes, saline grassland, scrub, ditches, reed beds and amenity grasssland. There is considerable botanical interest, notably the presence of buttonweed in the locality where it was first seen in Britain. other botanical interest includes the remnant dune Grassland-neutral(unimproved), open water- calcareous grassland, improved grassland, acid and slack species such as few flowered spike-rush, slender spike rush, small-fruited yellow sedge and strawberry coastal floodplain or grazing Leasowe Common B66 1999 SJ252913 standing water. Grassland-improved, Scrub, plants 1994, inverts 1988 24.75 24.75 100.00 F POSITIVE grassland, broadleaved woodland, neutral grassland, clover. A colony of prickly poppy was rediscovered in 1987, having previously thought to be extinct in V.C. marsh Swamp and fen suburban/rural, horticulture, littoral sediment, littoral rock 58(Cheshire). The area is valuable for breeding birds and species present include Stonechat, Grasshopper warbler, Whitethroat, Sedge warbler and Lapwing. A wide range of butterfleis is usuallu seen, and there is a colony of the rare Belted beauty moth. Sandy , coastal meadow with abundant sand sedge. Slightly base rich and showing (in 1994) some uncommon coastal floodplain or grazing Meols Field B67 1999 SJ244908 Grassland-neutral(unimproved) plants 1994, inverts 1988 species characterstic of unimproved grassland such as pepper saxifrage, ragged robin, cowslip, yellow rattle and 2.69 2.69 100.00 F POSITIVE improved grassland, acid grassland, neutral grassland marsh Grasslands meadow rue. Golf course developed on sand dunes and dune grassland. Much of the original dunes remain with associated dune scrub. The site is a very important representative of this habitat in Wirrla. The endemic isle of Man cabbage, a national rarity, is present along with a number of county and local rarities such as hairy rock-cress, dune fescue, B59a - 59a- Grassland-neautral(unimproved), Grassland- variegated horsetail and the hybrid MacKay's horsetail. Breeding birds include Stonechat, Skylark and Meadow improved grassland, neautral grassland, setaside, Wallasey Golf Course & B59a SJ284928 1999 neautral(semi-improved), 59b-Grassland- Plants 1999 pipit. Leasowe Gunsite. Consolidated sand dunes behind the sea wall with areas of 'blow-out' now 73.02 73.02 100.00 F POSITIVE continuous urban, acid grassland, saltmarsh, littoral Coastal sand dunes Leasowe Gunsite? B59b B59b- neutral(unimproved)(100%), Scrub (<10%) established with marram grass. Yellow dune, grey dune, dune grassland and dune scrub habitats all present. sediment, horticulture, suburban/rural SJ277925 Typical sand dune species are present including kidney vetch, common bird's-foot-trefoil and early dandelion. of particular interest is the presence of the nationally rare Isle of Man cabbage. This is one of only 2 V.C. 58 (Cheshire) stations for this plant. most of the course was developed on coastal dune grassland. The fixed dunes are now part of Red Rocks SSSI. Off the fairways, burnet rose (Rosa pimpinellifolia) is locally dominant with early hair-grass (Aira praecox) in drier acid grassland, neutral grassland, suburban/rural, Grassland - neutral(semi-improved), Scrub, Open areas. MacKay's horsetail (Equisetum x trachyodon) occurs in several areas. There are several colonies of broadleaved woodland, inland bare ground, improved Coastal sand dunes Mire Fen Royal Liverpool Golf Course B1 1999 SJ208885 water - standing water, Grassland - neutral plants - 1998, inverts - 1986 63.28 63.28 100.00 F POSITIVE southern marsh-orchid and some common spotted-orchid. Wetland was constructed 1993/1994 and planted with grassland, supralittoral sediment, littoral sediment, Bog Reedbed (unimproved) local plants, now well established. It is likely that Nattejack toads, breeding in the Red Rocks SSSI, use this site saltmarsh for hibernation A group of 3 ponds, which are mainly unshaded in spite of some mature oak trees. Trampling by cattle has kept open water - standing water, Grassland - Arrowe Brook Farm Ponds B38 1999 SJ265865 plants 1996, amphibians 1996 at least one side of each pond open and these areas support a rich marsh flora. Species present include fool's 1.15 1.15 100.00 F POSITIVE improved grassland, broadleaved woodland Deciduous woodland improved water cress, nodding bur-marigold and frogbit. Great Crested Newts breed in the ponds The woodlands within Arrowe Parl are mature plantations of considerable diversity. Ash, pedunculate and turkey oaks, sycamore and beech are the main canopy trees, with a variety of other native and exotic species. There is much natural regeneration in Nicholson's Plantation and Gorse Covert. The shrub layer includes elder, dog rose Woodland-broadleaved(plantation), open water - and honeysuckle, but is dominated in some places by Rhododendron. The varied ground flora includes primrose, broad leaved woodland, calcareous grassland, improved Arrowe Park B36 1999 SJ266864 standing water, Swamp and fen - inundation plants 1997, inverts 1997 100.10 100.10 100.00 F(UD) POSITIVE? Deciduous woodland dog violet, pignut, and bluebell. Broad-leaved helleborine is also present. Ferns and fungi are well represented, grassland, suburban/rural community and the woodland edges are sympathetically managed for invertebrates. Wet habitats include the Arrowe Brook, several ponds of variable quality within Gorse Covert, and the marsh at the southern end of the artificial lake. A wide range of bird species breed in the park.

Steep ancient woodland on the valley sides of prenton brook, dominated by oak, ash and beech. Good Woodland - broadleaved (semi-natural), understorey and ground flora, especially on east side of Barnston road, with abundant pignut, wood anemone, broadleaved woodland, suburban/rural, horticulture, Barnston Dale B30 1999 SJ282837 Grassland - neutral (semi-improved), open water- Plants 1997, mammals 1999 8.31 8.31 100.00 F POSITIVE Deciduous woodland wood sorrel and bluebell. Permanent grassland on valley floor and fringes of wood pasture on slopes. Prenton improved grassland running water brook has a small waterfall, low sandstone bluffs and exposures of banding and faulting. Badgers present. There are several ponds on the Bromborough Golf course, many of them of considerable biological interest. This Bromborough Golf Course pond is large, open and unshaded with clear water and supports a range of aquatic plants and animals including B45 1994 SJ33718028 Open water-standing water plants 1994, inverts 1994 0.24 0.24 100.00 F POSITIVE improved grassland, broadleaved woodland Deciduous woodland Pond nodding bur-marigold, cyperus sedge, water soldier and unbranched bur-reed. There are several dragonfly and damselfly species present. Open water-standing water, Woodland - A range of habitats within the golf course area, including ponds, copses and neutral grassland. The copses are improved grassland, calcareous grassland, supra littoral Caldy Golf Course B6 No access SJ227843 broadleaved (plantation), Grassland - neutral No access noted for their ornithological importance and three species of owl (Long-eared, Short-eared and Little) are known 38.90 37.38 96.09 F POSITIVE sediments, suburban/rural, inland bareground, Deciduous woodland (semi-improved) to hunt over the site. broadleaved woodland, littoral sediment, horticulture Mixed woodland with dense rhododendron understorey, formerly part of hospital grounds. Provides habitat for an broadleaved woodland, suburban/rural, calcareous Caldy Hospital Grounds B7 1999 SJ227854 Woodland-mixed (plantation) mammals -1999 6.56 6.56 100.00 F Deciduous woodland important breeding sett of badgers. grassland, neutral grassland A narrow broad-leaved woodland along the Arrowe Brook, with an open canopy od pedunculate oak, sycamore Woodland-broadleaved (plantation, Grassland - and beech. A mixture of other native trees have been planted at the north end. There is much natural regeneratio broadleaved woodland, improved grassland, calcareous Harrock Wood B11 1999 SJ263845 Plants -1994 1.87 1.87 100.00 F POSITIVE Deciduous woodland neutral (unimproved) and a varied shrub layer, as well as open grassy areas. Despite heavy public usage, the ground flora includes dog grassland violet, bluebell and pignut. Woodland -mixed(plantation), Scrub, Grassland- Remnant of grounds of country house, including mixed woodland, scrub and grassland. Contains an active badge Holm Hill B49 1999 SJ222863 mammals 1999, plants 1996 1.50 1.50 100.00 suburban/rural, neutral grassland, broadleaved woodland Deciduous woodland acidic(semi-improved) sett and also the locally uncommon Yellow meadow Ant. Irby quarry is geologically important because of the exposed Keuper sandstone beds. The exposed rock face is well colonised by mosses and lichens whilst the quarry floor supports an acid heathland habitat which at present Irby Quarry B9 1999 SJ252859 Scrub, Heathland - dry, Rock Plants-1999 is not heavily colonised by woodland species. Because the rock is very near the surface there is fairly thin soil, be 2.07 2.07 100.00 UD NEGATIVE broadleaved woodland Deciduous woodland heather and heather are able to thrive without being invaded by birch. The open sandy areas support such locally rare species such as parsley piert. An open pond, which is unshaded. It is deep in the middle and shelves to marsh, particularly on the west and north sides. Considerable plant and animal species diversity including an abundance of water spiders. 20% of the broadleaved woodland, improved grassland, horticulture, Limbo Lane Pond B37 1999 SJ26508530 Open water - standing water plants 1999 0.38 0.38 100.00 UD? SOME Deciduous woodland pond is open water with the rest being either covered with Canadian waterweed or marsh vegetation including arable hard rush and cyperus sedge. The presence of lesser water plantain is also significant.

Small area of deciduous woodland along the river dibbin, beinf the upstream limit of Dibbinsdale woodland in this POSITIVE Woodland-broadleaved(semi-natural)(90%), broadleaved woodland, suburban/rural, calcareous Lowfields B48 1999 SJ350791 plants 1994 direction. The part nearest the stream appears to be ancient, with bluebells and other woodland species. There is 5.20 5.20 100.00 F/UD AND Deciduous woodland Grassland-neutral(unimproved)(10%) grassland much hazel. Adjoining is an area of marshy grassland with much fleabane and marsh orchids. NEGATIVE Mill Road, Bromborough G4 1999 SJ345831 Exposures of St Bees Sandstone showing clear examples of a normal fault. 0.04 0.04 100.00 broadleaved woodland, suburban/rural Deciduous woodland Ancient woodland on the steep valley sides of Prenton Brook, dominated by oak and sycamore. Rich ground flora Grassland - acidic (unimproved), Woodland - POSITIVE broadleaved woodland, improved grassland, horticulture, Murrayfield Hospital B31 1998 SJ286843 Plants 1999 including pignut, sanicle and bluebell. Large area of damp grassland with common spotted-orchid and other 11.35 11.35 100.00 F Deciduous woodland broadleaved (semi-natural) MOST arable, calcareous grassland flowers. Also areas of secondary woodland supporting small birds and acidic grassland (sports pitch). Area of flattened rubble from former sewage works, with a sunny aspect although sheltered by the adjacent Old Sewage Works, Grassland -calcareous (improved) (90%), Scrub woodland and hedges. The site has been colonised by a variety of plants including bee orchids, but is chiefly B41 1995 SJ323819 plants 1991, moths 1995 0.64 0.64 100.00 F POSITIVE neutral grassland, continuous urban, suburban/rural Deciduous woodland Clatterbridge (10%) notable for the great quantity and diversity of invertabrates, including several species each of grasshoppers, ants and bees.

Page 1 of 4 Appendix II: SBI detailed information

Site Date of Whole Site WMBC main habitats (landcover 2000 and aerial NE habitat inventory Site Name Grid ref habitat from citation Survey Dates Descriptions % MBW Condition Management Code revision Area Area photographs) habitats Deciduous and mixed woodland, showing ancient woodland flora around the graveyard. The mature trees include Woodland-broadleaved(semi-natural), woodland - broadleaved woodland, suburban/rural, improved Overchurch Park Wood B65 1999 SJ263889 Plants and iverts 1997, bats 1988 several bat roosts, which are legally protected. Noctule, pipistrelle and long eared bats have all been recorded. 2.11 2.11 100.00 UR? POSITIVE? Deciduous woodland mixed(plantation) grassland There are a number of non-native trees from ornamental plantings. Deciduous woodland , part of Overchurch Park Wood(B65) until the building of the Upton bypass in 1990. It broadleaved woodland, neutral grassland, improved Paulsfield Drive Wood B64 1999 SJ262890 Woodland-broadleaved(semi-natural) bats 1992 contains several bat roosts, which are legally protected, and used as feeding ground for pipistrelle and Long Eare 2.74 2.74 100.00 UNKNOWN UNKNOWN Deciduous woodland grassland, suburban/rural bats. Raby mere is one of the few large water bodies in Wirral and whilst there is little marginal or emergent vegetation, it is of value for aquatic species of plants and animalas, particularly ducks. To the south east the woodlands have an acidic flora, whilst those immediately around the lake and those to the south west have plants of heavier clays. Open water-standing water, Woodland- broadleaved woodland, neutral grassland, improved Raby Mere B43 1999 SJ330808 plants 1996, inverts 1988 The presence of primrose and wood sorrel indicate the probable semi-natural nature of these woodlands. The 12.77 12.78 100.00 F POSITIVE Deciduous woodland broadleaved (semi-natural) grassland, suburban/rural woods support a reasonable range of breeding and wintering bird species and four species of bat(Daubenton, Whiskered, Long-eared and Pipistrelle) have been recorded. It seems likely that some or all of these species may roost in the woods, but this has yet to be confirmed. An open pond in a public park showing the full succession of plant habitats from open water to dry land. Botanical interest includes cyperus sedge, tubular water dropwort and frogbit, all near the northern limits of their British open water-standing water (40%), Swamp and Sandbrook Lane Pond B63 1999 SJ27208943 plants, inverts, amphibs 1995 distribution. The presence of ramshorn snails indicates slightly more calcareous conditions than in most Wirral 0.35 0.35 100.00 UD NEGATIVE set aside Deciduous woodland fen-inundation community(60%). ponds. There are breeding populations of frogs, toads, smooth newts and dragonflies including common darter and broad-bodied chaser. A sycamore/oak woodland and conifer plantation on part of a disused sandstone quarry on Storeton hill. The Woodland-broadleaved(plantation, Woodland- POSITIVE ground flora is rather limited due to disturbance and trampling, but this should improve with positive managemen broadleaved woodland, improved grassland, calcareous Storeton Wood B40 1999 SJ313846 coniferous (plantation), Grassland- plants 1993, birds 1993 12.56 12.56 100.00 F/UD AND Deciduous woodland There are open glades with grassland and scrub. The woodland's main interest is ornithological with breeding grassland, continuous urban, suburban/rural neutral(unimproved)(10%), Scrub (<10%) NEGATIVE Blacap, willow warbler, Whitethroat, Jay, Wood Warbler, Great-spotted Woodpecker and Lesser Redpoll. Large flooded marl pit, much used for educational purposes. There is a good range of submerged and floating Woodslee Pond B52 1999 SJ345826 open water-standing water (100%) plants 1994, inverts 1994 vegetation, including large amounts of water soldier, which is managed to contain its population. A variety of 0.38 0.38 100.00 broadleaved woodland Deciduous woodland coarse fish are present, as well as a rich insect fauna, including several species of dragonflies. Bidston Hill is an exposed sandstone ridge with fairly extensive, though degraded lowland heath, gorse and birch scrub. The heathland is mostly dry, but damper patches do occur with cross-leaved heath, purple moor-grass and Heathland-dry heath(10%), heathland-wet 3 species of sphagnum. Common lizards are to be found in the drier areas. Taylors wood to the south east and plants 1997/8, birds 1989, inverts broadleaved woodland, neutral grassland, suburban/rural, Deciduous woodland Bidston HIll B57 1997 SJ285894 heath(<10%), Woodland-mixed(plantation), other fringing woodlands are mature woodlands with either mixed deciduous or coniferous dominance. Purple 46.83 46.83 100.00 UR POSITIVE 1988 dense dwarf shrub, improved grassland Lowland Heath Woodland-coniferous(plantation) hairstreak butterflies occur but the woods are mainly noted for their ornithological interest. Green and Great- spotted woodpeckers are known to breed and Brambling, Siskin, Redpoll and Nuthatch are present. The woods are also valuable for roosting Finches and Thrushes. An extensive area of remnant lowland heath, a nationally rare habitat. The heathland is dominated by heather, but bell heather, cross-leaved heath and western gorse are also present. There is server invasion of braken and birch, Heathland - dry heath (30%), Heathland-wet and larger areas of gorse are also present. A wet area supports bog moss, cotton grasses and heath rush. Lower Plants - 1998, birds - 1997, inverts - NEGATIVE suburban/rural, broadleaved woodland, neutral grassland, Deciduous woodland Caldy Hill B3 1999 SJ225860 heath (<10%), Woodland - broadleaved parts of the hill have well established woodland, dominated by sycamore and oaks and containing bluebells and 24.99 24.99 100.00 UD 1997, mammals - 1999. MOST acid grassland Lowland Heath (plantation pignut. Thor's wood (to the east of Fleck lane) is young birch and oak woodland which has developed on former heathland. The fauna includes common lizard and many birds, insects and spiders. Geological interest is represented by outcrops of Keuper basement beds with good examples of baryte. Contains an active badger sett. A fragment of lowland heath with exposed sandstone outcrops, gorse scrub and acidic grassland. Birch invasion Heathland - dry (40%), Scrub, Grassland - acidic broadleaved woodland, neutral grassland, calcareous Deciduous woodland Heswall Beacons B21 1999 SJ271813 Plants - 1998, mammals - 1999. is severe in places, however remnants of heath with heather, bell heather, western gorse and bilberry still remain 5.47 5.47 100.00 UD (semi-improved) grassland, suburban/rural, continuous urban Lowland Heath and could easily be enlarged by removal of birch. Badgers are present. Ecologically an extension of Thor's wood (part of SBI 3). The southern end also has larger oak and scots pine Deciduous woodland Newton Common B5 1999 SJ230862 Woodland - mixed (plantation) (100%) Plants-1994, Birds - 1997. 3.00 3.00 100.00 F NEGATIVE broadleaved woodland, suburban/rural trees, with native bluebells. Bird life is abundant. Lowland Heath Royden park is an area of coniferous and mixed plantations with two large meres, grassland and gorse areas. Woodland-coniferous (plantation), Woodland- Frankby mere is dry in summer and shows succession through to willow carr. Both meres are surrounded by mixed(plantation, Grassland-acidic(unimproved), rhododendron thickets which are important thrush roosts. There is acid grassland to the south and west of Hill Deciduous woodland Royden Park B13 1999 SJ242858 Plants-1998, mammals-1999 29.20 29.20 100.00 F POSITIVE broadleaved woodland, improved grassland, horticulture Open water-standing water, Swamp and mire- Bark, with small patches of heathland. A large colony of common spotted orchid with some southern marsh Lowland Heath margin/inundation, Heathland-dry (<10%) orchid grows on the damp grassland west and south west of Hill Bark. there is a large bat rooast in Hill Bark. Badgers are present Mixed age plantation. Dominated by sycamore and beecj, with oak and sweet chestnut. Natural regeneration is Plants - 1996, Birds 1997, inverts - broadleaved woodland, improved grassland, Deciduous woodland Stapledon Wood B4 1999 SJ231857 Woodland -broadleaved(plantation) (100%) present. Bluebell and lesser celandine are abundant. The higher ground is dominated by silver birch and bracken. 16.40 16.40 100.00 F POSITIVE 1988. suburban/rural Lowland Heath Much dead wood is present, and insects and bird life are abundant. Scrub (30%), Grassland - acidic (semi- Damp grassland and scrub with a good variety of plant species. Habitat for legally protected species. Contains an suburban/rural, broadleaved woodland, improved Bush Way B23 1999 SJ262818 Plants - 1993, mammals - 1999 0.99 0.99 100.00 F Fens Lowland Heath improved)(10%) active badger sett. grassland The line of the disused railway line, now part of Wirral Country Park, has developed inito a huge variety of secondary damp and neutral grassland habitats, as well as scrub and associated hedge features, all of value to Wirral Way - Caldy-Thurston broadleaved woodland, calcareous grassland, Grasslands Lowland B15 1999 SJ222850 Scrub, Grassland-neutral (unimproved) plants-1993, butterflies-1999 wildlife. Cubbin's Green has many locally uncommon plants, including pignut, yellow rattle, and harebell. other 10.16 10.16 100.00 F POSITIVE - Heswall suburban/rural, horticulture, improved grassland, Meadow rarities are fine-leaved sandwort, pepper saxifrage and dyer's greenweed. Butterflies are numerous in the warmer railway cuttings, and traditional hedge management techniques have proved of value to bird species. Former remnant lowland heath, now mainly gorse scrub grassland and invasive bracken. Heather, wester gorse and bell heather occur in very small amounts among gorse, on quarry edges and other places which are Scrub, Woodland -broadleaved (plantation), inaccessible to people. Broad-leaved woodland occurs on lower slopes and hollows, particualy in the west, south broadleaved woodland, suburban/rural, neutral grassland, Grange Hill B2 1999 SJ219871 Plants 1999 9.81 9.81 100.00 G Lowland Heath Heathland - dry heath (<10%) and north (old quarry). Sycamore is dominant with silver birch and rown. Fires occur, sometime frequently, during improved grassland the summer. Geological interest centres on the exposures showing the contact between the Bunter and Keuper sandstones, along with interesting sedimentary features. The golf course 'roughs' and some of the fairways represent fine examples of relatively undisturbed lowland heath, Heathland - dry heath, Woodlands-broadleaved an nationally scarce habitst. The locally characteristic heathland species are present such as heather, bell improved grassland, broadleaved woodland, Wirral Ladies Golf Course B56 1999 SJ293884 plants 1999 24.30 24.30 100.00 UD? NEGATIVE? Lowland Heath (plantation), Grassland-acidic(semi-improved) heather, cross-leaved heath, western gorse and wavy hair-grass. A colony of marsh gentain, a nationally rare suburban/rural, neutral grassland species, is presnet. A large, open, shallow pond, unshaded except for a few hawthorn bushes. A central stand of bulrush is POSITIVE Backford Road Park B12 1999 SJ25508415 open water -standing water (100%) Plants - 1993, Amphibians - 1999 surrounded by sweet-grass and water-starwort. The diverse aquatic vegetation includes common water-crowfoot, 1.13 1.13 100.00 F MOST inland water pond MOST gipsywort and brooklime. Great Crested Newts, Smooth Newts and Frogs are present. An interesting series of ponds, managed for angling and with a conservation input. Most ponds contain some ope water and varying amounts of broad-leaved pondweed, although several are surrounded by mature oak trees and Benty Heath Lane Ponds B28 1999 SJ322791 open water -standing water, Grassland - improvedPlants 1995 5.08 4.35 85.55 F POSITIVE improved grassland, inland water pond alder/willow carr. Marsh habitats of rushes and sweet-grass are extensive whilst one pond is dominated by emergent vegetation such as bulrush, yellow iris and great willowherb. A variety of habitats, mostly of a wetland nature, developed on land bordered by Bidston Dock, M53 motorway and the A553 road. Although originally on the side of Bidston moss, no remnant of this remains and the surrent site is of man-made origin. However, it is an important SBI because of the size, extent and variety of habitats POSITIVE Open water - standing water, Swamp and fen - broadleaved woodland, improved grassland, neutral Bidston Marsh B62 1999 SJ285910 plants 1994/1998, inverts 1984 represented, and is a site of county ornithological importance for the diversity of passage and wintering species. 33.44 33.44 100.00 F MOST AND pond inundation, Scrub, Grassland-neutral. grassland, inland water High plant diversity including only Wirrla site for purple small-reed, and colonies of greater pond sedge, marsh NEGATIVE arrow-grass, and bee orchid. the local nature reserve area is being actively managed to increase its value for wildlife. Blackwood Hall Farm B26 1992 SJ280799 Woodland - broadleaved (plantation) Mammals 1991 Small deciduous woodland within agricultural land providing habitat for legally protected pecies. 0.70 broadleaved woodland no data broadleaved woodland, neutral grassland,open dwarf Burrell Road, Prenton B55 1999 SJ311860 Scrub mammals 1999 Area of scrub in former sandstone quarry which is now contained in gardens. Contains an active badger sett. 0.93 0.93 100.00 no data scrub A large, open seasonal ponds, which dries up completely in dry summers, but can re-fill in winter. It is surrounded by agricultural grassland, with steep bank at the north east end, and a gradation to marsh at the southern end. In Open water-standing water, Swamp and fen - Dungeon Pond B17 1999 SJ25228330 Plant-1994, inverts-1988 summer it is almost totally covered with normally emergent vegetation, such as branched bur-reed, water 0.56 0.56 100.00 UD-G improved grassland, inland water pond margin/inundation plantain, bulrush and invading grass species. Broad-leaved pondweed and common water crowfoot were present in 1994. Species rich grassland, varying from dry on hut bases to wet in intervening hollows. Dense gorse scrub in places, Former R.A.F camp, West plus tree planting. Plant species include pyramidal orchid (anacamptis pyraminalis), one of only two stations on B72 1999 SJ243877 Grassland- neutral (semi-improved) Scrub Birds and Inverts, 2000. Plants 1999 14.95 14.95 100.00 UD NEGATIVE neutral grassland no data Kirby Wirral; also bee orchid (ophrys apifera) and southern marsh orchids (Dactylorhiza praetermissa). There is a good invertebrate fauna, and resident hares. Gayton Hall Wood B25 / SJ274805 Woodland - mixed (plantation)(100%) mammals - 1999 Mixed woodland with good ground flora. Contains an active badger sett. 5.84 5.84 100.00 F broadleaved woodland no data Woodland -broadleaved (plantation), Woodland - A deciduous woodland of pedunculate oak and sycamore with adjacent coniferous plantation, surrounding private broadleaved woodland, coniferous woodland, improved Gayton Wood B24 No access SJ276802 coniferous (plantation), Scrub, Grassland - No access formal gardens. The dense shrub layer contains Rhododendron and regenerating elm. There is a rich ground flora 2.51 2.51 100.00 no data grassland improved with lords and ladies, lesser celandine and bluebell.

Page 2 of 4 Appendix II: SBI detailed information

Site Date of Whole Site WMBC main habitats (landcover 2000 and aerial NE habitat inventory Site Name Grid ref habitat from citation Survey Dates Descriptions % MBW Condition Management Code revision Area Area photographs) habitats A mixed woodland, mostly broadleaved and dominated by sycamore with ash and horse chestnut. Dense understorey of bramble, elder and hawthorn. The ground flora contains many spring flowers including pignut, Woodland - broadleaved (plantation)(90%), Open Greasby Copse B39 1999 SJ258866 plants 1996 wood avens and unusually large quantities of lesser celandine. Dead wood (present in large quantities) is used by 1.84 1.84 100.00 F POSITIVE broadleaved woodland, improved grassland, inland water pond water - standing water(10%) woodpeckers and should be valueable for fungi and inverts. several ponds and ditches are present with good water quality. Sandstone outcrop at the mouth of the Dee estuary forming flat intertidal platforms and low uneven cliffs subject Hilbre Island, Dee Estuary G6 1999 SJ185875 1999 to continual coastal erosion. The rocks contain footprints, trace fossils and trackways. The rocks are in the East 51.07 7.19 14.09 littoral sediment, saltmarsh, supra-littoral sediment no data Irish sea basin and are either St Bees Sandstone or Ormskirk Sandstone foundations. Hilbre Point/ Red Rocks G5 1999 SJ203885 1995 Coastal outcrops of St Bees Sandstone formation showing normal faults and continuing tidal erosion. 4.13 3.14 75.97 improved grassland, littoral sediment, saltmarsh no data A pond containing the locally rare tubular water-dropwort. Branched bur-reed, bulrush and common reed occupy plants 1995, inverts 1995, Leasowe Pond B61 1999 SJ27989110 Open water - standing water much of the pond. Pea-mussels are present, and the nationally rare species Psidium pseudosphaerium has been 0.33 0.34 100.00 UD NEGATIVE improved grassland, inland water pond amphibians 1995 found here in the past. A narrow belt of deciduos ancient woodland along the valley of the Prenton Brook and a tributary. Ground flora Lower Heath Wood B73 2003 SJ290847 Woodland - broadleaved (semi-natural) Plants 2003 include masses of bluebell (hyacinthoides non-scripta), with wood anemone (anemone nemorosa), ramosns 6.39 6.39 100.00 F POSITIVE broadleaved woodland no data (alium ursinum) and other ancient woodland indicators. This group of 4 semi-improved meadows is bound by hawthorn hedges and a ditch on the northside leading to Greasby brook, along east side. There are 3 old marl pits. The meadows are cut for hay in July, then are pasture for horses until spring. Not ploughed for about 12yrs; fertiliser applied annually, no herbicide. The following are abundant in various parts of the meadows: common and creepinf bent, crested dogstail, yorkshire fog,meadow Grassland-neutral(semi-improved), Open water- foxtail, sweet vernal-grass, timothy, bulbous buttercup, yellow rattle, and oxeye daisy. Pignut and agrimony are Manor Farm, Frankby B70 check - SJ245876 plants 1998, amphibs 1997 0.63 0.63 100.00 F POSITIVE improved grassland, inland water pond standing water present. In wetland: water horsetail, purple loosestrife, greater spearwort and marsh woundwort occur. Meadow 2 has most species, with 79 in meadow and hedge bank and 23 in wetlands. in the 4 fields, there are 87 meadow and hedge bank species of which 8 are uncommon in Wirral or cheshire (of 33 wetland species, 7 are rare in Wirral). One narrow strip of meadow 2 is improved grassland, with 4 main species. Great crested newts are presnt. Mixed deciduous woodland with planted additions surrounding a series of marl pits now enlarged to form an arable crops arable horticulture broadleaved woodland Open water- standing water, Woodland - mixed Plants 1986, Birds - annual heron NO DATA/ Manor Wood B32 1998 SJ294815 ornamental lake. Whilst the lake is of general ecological interest, the site is particularly noted for its heronry, the 19.07 19.07 100.00 NO DATA coniferous woodland improved grassland inland water no data (plantation) count NEGATIVE only one in wirral, which has around 70 nests. suburban/rural developed Mill Road, Bromborough ii G4 ii 1999 0.26 0.26 100.00 broadleaved no data Former railway goods yard with a diversity of substrates including coal, lime, demolition rubble, railway ballast an Grassland-neutral (semi-improved)(40%), boulder clay. These have been colonised a wide variety of plant species, both native and garden escapes. The s Grassland-acidic(semi-improved)(<10%), plants 1999, butterfleis annual, birds supports a considerable variety of butterfleis: 25 species have been recorded of which at least 13 breed (Meadow New Ferry Butterfly Park B53 1999 SJ333852 Grassland-calcareous (semi-improved)(10%), 2.05 2.05 100.00 F POSITIVE neutral grassland no data annual. brown, Speckled wood, Peacock, Small tortoiseshell, Small copper, Common blue, Small skipper, orange tip, Scrub (30%), Tall herb (10%), Open water- Holly blue, Large skipper, Small white, Large white, Gree-veined white). This makes it one of the best butterfly standing water (<10%). breeding areas in Wirral. Much used for education. Abandoned meander of the old River Birket and main Birket channel, surrounding Bidston Golf course Course. Open water-running , Grassland- Relatively unpolluted stream with a good range of aquatic plants. Fat duckweed, the rarest duckweed in N. Old Birket B60 1995 SJ284914 plants 1994 4.50 4.50 100.00 UD NEGATIVE Neutral grassland no data neutral(unimproved) Wirrlal, is present along with flowering rush and grey club-rush. Good grassland community on the north bank of the main channel including stands of dyer's greenweed. Small copse of deciduous trees containing several bat roosts (pipistrelle and Long Eared), especially in the boundary oaks and mature sycamores. Bat roosts are legally protected. The bats feed on the surrounding land Old Hall Road Copse B51 1999 SJ357822 Woodland-broadleaved(plantation) plants 1997 bats 1996 0.92 0.92 100.00 F NEGATIVE? broadleaved woodland no data particularly along the edges of Long plantation, Eastham woods (SBI 50) and are joined by noctule bats. The copse is also important to birds. Pond with willow carr to one side. There is a diverse range of species in and around the pond. Pink water- speedwell, buttonweed and lesser bulrush are all species of significance. The willow carr is valuable for passage Pasture Farm Pond B68 1999 SJ25349103 Open water - standing water(90%), Scrub(10%) plants inverts amphibs 1995 0.41 0.41 100.00 F POSITIVE? open dwarf shrub inland water pond migrant birds including pied flycatcher, spotted flycatcher, Redstart and willow warbler. Great crested newts bree in the pond. Sandy fields with gorse scrub.supports a legally protected species and a variety of birds. contains and active broadleaved woodland calcareous grassland improved Piper's Lane, Heswell B19 1999 SJ253824 Scrub, Grassland - improved mammals - 1999 3.07 3.07 100.00 no data badger sett grassland neutral grassland Complex of ancient habitats in the valley of Prenton Brook, plus ofrmer clay pit. Prenton Dell itself has ancient woodland on the slopes with variagated groung flora, including cuckoo-pint (Arum maculatum), pignut (Cononpodium majus) blue-bell (hyacinthoides non-scripta) and wood speedwell (Veronica montana). There are POSITIVE Woodland- broadleaved (plantation) Grassland - areas of marsh in the valley bottom, and unimproved grassland on the upper slopes containing ladies smock Prenton Dell and Claypit B71 1999 SJ295858 Plants and inverts- 2005 12.20 12.20 100.00 F, PART UD AND improved grassland, suburban/rural developed no data neutral(semi-improved) Swamp and Fen (Cardamine pratensis) and common spotted orchid (Dactylorhiza fuchsii). The claypit has developed a species- NEGATIVE rich flora in a matrix of sedges (Carex flacca, c. otrubae) and rush (juncus conglomeratus) and has a notable colony of blue eyed grass (sisyrhynchium bermudiana). Great Crested Newts breed in the remaining old pond an possibly in the new ponds. Supports a good variety of butterflies and birds. Woodland - mixed (plantation, Scrub, Grassland - Area of mixed woodland and sccrub spread over parts of several large gardens. Contains active badger sett. broadleaved woodland coniferous woodland Quarry Road East, Heswall B20 1999 SJ266827 mammals - 1999 1.20 1.20 100.00 no data improved Sparrowhawks recorded breeding there. suburban/rural developed Raby Mere ii B43 ii 1999 0.61 0.61 100.00 improved grassland, neutral grassland no data A representative series of 7 ponds (old marl pits) on grazed pasture land. The most easterly pond is largely open water. The northernmost one is open and with an interesting marsh developed where cattle have access. The 3 western ponds are surrounded and invaded by willow, hawthorn and alder and exhibit the later stages of aquatic open water - standing water, Grassland - Raby Ponds B27 1995 SJ319793 plants 1995, inverts 1995, birds 1995 succession. one pond is full of variegated reed sweet-grass. Floating plant species include water crow-foot. Other 1.09 1.09 100.00 F POSITIVE arable horticulture improved grassland neutral grassland pond improved marsh species present include bog stitchwort and marsh pennywort. The scrub, hedges and surrounding farmland are valuable ornithological habitats with breeding Lesser whitethroat, Chaffinch, Yellowhammer, Swift, Swallow and Mallard. Ponds are un-managed and succession is gradually reducing the value. Pond to the south of Rake Hey Covert, exhibiting the later stages of aquatic succession with willow carr develope Open water - standingwater, Swamp and fen - on the eastern side. Open water is limited but a wide range of emergent and marsh plant species are present Rake Hey Covert Road B35 No access SJ30038365 No access 0.36 0.36 100.00 G? NEGATIVE Fen, marsh , swamp pond inundation community. including the locally rare marsh cinquefoil. The scrub and nearby Rake Hey Covert are valuable for birds, particualy as finch roosts. Red & Yellow Noses, New Remnant cliff line from old coast prior to construction of kings parade, with outcrop of St Bees Sandstone (East G1 1999 SJ294940 1.13 1.13 100.00 improved grassland, neutral grassland no data Brighton Irish Sea Basin). Shows features of natural erosion and variations in colour. Deciduous valley woodland on the banks of a tributary of the Prenton Brook. The canopy consists of oak, ash and sycamore. The locally dense shrub layer contains much bramble and hawthorn as well as regenerating elm. The Woodland -broadleaved (semi-natural)(90%), valley section, although truncated by the Bidston-wrexham railway line and cut under stw electricity pylons, is the Stanley Wood B34 1997 SJ293847 plants1997 4.53 4.53 100.00 F NEGATIVE broadleaved woodland no data Open water - running water (<10%) mst interesting area and has a ground flora rich in indicator species of ancient woodland. These include bluebell, wood sorrel, wood avens, wood anemone and moschatel. The southern section on level ground, is more recent in origin and has fewer species present. Clay pigeon shooting. improved grassland, littoral sediment, saltmarsh, supra- Storeton Hill, Bebington G10 1999 SJ315846 Site of former Storeton Quarry still exposing significant outcrops of Ormskirk Sandstone Formation. 2.73 2.27 83.24 no data littoral sediment Storeton Wood ii B40 ii 1999 8.02 8.02 100.00 improved grassland no data Ancient deciduous valley woodland dominated by sycamore and sessile oak with some natural regeneragtion. Th Woodland-broadleaved (semi-natural)(100%), rich ground flora includes bluebell, dog's mercury, wood sorrell, wood anenome, wood mellick and giant horsetail. The Dungeon B18 1999 SJ251831 Plants-1996 4.72 4.72 100.00 F POSITIVE broadleaved woodland improved grassland no data Open water - running water Pellia epiphylla and other bryophytes are abundant. The natioanlly notable caddis fly Hydropsyche fulvipes has been found in the stream Woodland-mixed (plantation) Scrub, Grassland- The Rectory, Thurstaton B75 2007 SJ251842 Mammals-2007 A garden including an area of mixed woodland and scrub. Supports legally protected species. 1.13 1.13 99.96 broadleaved woodland, improved grassland no data improved The site consists of a series of enclosed marl pits, surrounded by willow carr and secondary oak woodland. The eastern ponds are shaded with remote sedge present on the pond edges. The western ponds are more open and contain many common species. Species of note are lesser bulrush, thread-leaved water-crowfoot, marsh Woodland - broadleaved(plantation)(40%), Open Thornton Common B42 1999 SJ322814 plants 1997, inverts 1998 cinquefoil, lesser spearwort, nodding bur-marigold, marsh pennywort, gypsywort, water forget-me-not and cyperu 1.01 1.01 100.00 F POSITIVE broadleaved woodland, neutral grassland no data water - standing water(60%) sedge. In the centre of the site is a small relict fragment of heath grassland as indicated by the presence of heather, heath bedstraw, wood sage and hawkweed. Smooth newts, several species of dragonfly and damselfly species and Pea-cockle are present in the pond indicating reasonable water quality. A representative series of old marl pits, now managed for angling. A wide range of plant and animal species are open water - standing water, Grassland - Thornton Hough Ponds B33 1999 SJ298821 plants 1995 present. Species of local distribution include greater duckweed, fat duckweed, tubular water-dropwort and 2.04 2.04 100.00 F POSITIVE improved grassland no data improved unbranched bur-reed. Semi-improved grassland on slightly acidic character adjacent to Foxes Wood (part of Dibinsdale SSSi). Species0rich grassland which varies between open areas woth much Field Horsetail (Equisetum arvense), daper Tom's Paddock B74 2007 SJ328813 Semi-improved Grassland Plants and inverts- 2004 areas with Sedges (Carex sp) and some coarser patches with Tall fescues. Good range of nectar plants. Supports 0.25 0.25 99.83 F POSITIVE improved grassland no data a good range of invertebrates including an uncommon Harvestman, lciinius ephippiatus. There is a large population of small mammals. Specie-rich hedge to the North edge.

Page 3 of 4 Appendix II: SBI detailed information

Site Date of Whole Site WMBC main habitats (landcover 2000 and aerial NE habitat inventory Site Name Grid ref habitat from citation Survey Dates Descriptions % MBW Condition Management Code revision Area Area photographs) habitats Unknown A 1999 0.27 0.27 100.00 improved grassland no data Unknown B 1999 2.89 2.89 100.00 improved grassland no data Unknown C 1999 4.63 4.63 100.00 broadleaved woodland, improved grassland no data A mixed deciduous woodland with open glades and wet areas. The canopy is mainly oak, sycamore and ash. The locally dense shrub layer includes hawthorn, rose, honeysuckle and naturally regenerating canopy species. Along the southern boundary is a dense border of bramble and rose, frequented by many species of butterfly. Damp Woodland-broadleaved(plantation), Grassland- Upton Bridge Wood B69 1999 SJ265875 plants and iverts 1995 areas support several ferns and mosses. The varied ground flora includes pignut, common dog-violet, moschatel 2.15 2.15 100.00 F POSITIVE broadleaved woodland no data neutral(semi-improved) and goldilocks buttercup. Dead wood is present and supports a variety of inverts, notably hoverflies. The wood is also of value to birds. The SBI includes an area of grassland to the south of the wood, which is rich in yellow rattle, and a small copse which is ecologically similar to the main wood. Woodland-broadleaved(plantation), open water - Willaston Copse B29 No access SJ321788 Mammals - late 1980's Deciduous woodland with several ponds, contains an active badger sett. 1.07 1.07 100.00 broadleaved woodland no data standing water The continuation of the old railway line south from SBI 15, and a valuable wildlife corridor. This stretch is mostly Scrub, Woodland - broadleaved(plantation), Open lined with hedges, with some woodland and more open parts. A ditch along one side provides an additional wet Wirral Way - Thurstaton - B16 1999 SJ266808 water - standing water, Grassland - neutral Plants 1999 habitat. The varied tree species include mature apples and pears dating from the railway age. Dog violet is 3.04 3.04 100.00 F POSITIVE improved grassland no data Heswall (unimproved) present in the wooded area. Also included is Thurstaston Pond, which has much emergen vegetation and is frequented by dragonflies. Great Crested Newts breed in the pond. Wittering Lane B22 1999 SJ258818 Scrub mammals 1998 Area of scrub and bracken. Contains an active badger sett. 0.28 0.28 100.00 open dwarf shrub no data

Page 4 of 4

APPENDIX III

Species within Each Inventory Habitat

Appendix III: Species within Each Inventory Habitat

ALL DATA WITHIN ALL HABITATS Ancient woodland WET WOODLAND COASTAL SAND DUNES FENS GRAZING MARSH LOWLAND HEATH LOWLAND MEADOWS MARITIME CLIFF SLOPES MUDFLATS REEDBEDS SAND DUNES UNDERTERMINED GRASSLAND RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES NAME pre 1988post 1988all yearspre 1988post 1988all yearspre 1988post 1988all yearspre 1988post 1988all yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearsLOCAL BAP Agonopterix atomella 1 1 1 1 Anania funebris 2 2 2 2 Aquatic Warbler 1 1 1 1 Arctic Skua 2 4 6 2 2 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 August Thorn 3 3 1 1 Autumnal Rustic 47113256 62 2 6 6 4 4 6 6 2 2 Barn Owl 54449 52732 4 4 3 3 1 1 1 1 3 3 2 2 1 1 1 1 l BAP Bastard Balm 1 1 1 1 Beaded Chestnut 70 4 74 1 2 3 Bearded Tit 1 1 1 1 Belted Beauty 116576 61016 4 5 9 1 4 5 4 1 5 1 1 2 4 4 3 3 4 1 5 1 1 2 l BAP Bewick's Swan 3 3 3 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Bird's-Nest Stonewort 2 2 2 2 Bittern 2 2 2 2 Black Poplar 5283352429 33 22 22 11 22 11 11 11 1 1 1 1 l BAP Black Redstart 1 4 5 1 1 2 4 4 1 1 4 4 1 1 4 4 1 1 4 4 1 1 Black Tern 3 2 5 3 2 5 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Black-Necked Grebe 1 1 2 1 1 2 l BAP Black-Tailed Godwit 241432791 11 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Black-Throated Diver 1 1 2 1 1 2 Blood-Vein 99186281 11 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Bluebell 132 238 371 95 153 249 22 80 102 18 50 68 9 36 45 7 22 29 8 32 40 6 19 25 3 7 10 2 5 7 6 26 32 4 15 19 1 5 6 1 4 5 9 24 33 8 13 21 2 2 1 1 41923 31518 3 710 2 5 7 l BAP Blunt Bryum 2 2 1 1 Bombus muscorum 1 1 1 1 Bottle-Nosed Dolphin 6 6 4 4 l BAP Bottle-Nosed Whale 2 2 1 1 Brambling 10 616 9 413 1 3 4 1 3 4 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 3 1 2 3 Branched Horsetail 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Breckland Thyme 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Broom Moth 71017459 66 33 1 1 1 1 3 3 1 1 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 Brown Hare 280 99 381 43 55 100 7 3 10 4 2 6 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 4 2 1 3 5 5 2 2 2 2 4 2 1 3 l BAP Brown Long-Eared Bat 34 16 51 14 12 27 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 l BAP Brown-Banded Carder Bee 1 1 1 1 Brown-Spot Pinion 89 2 91 2 2 4 Buff Ermine 33 107 140 5 8 13 3 3 2 2 1 1 1 1 2 2 1 1 Bullfinch 30 22 52 16 16 32 17 2 19 4 2 6 1 1 2 1 1 2 16 1 17 3 1 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 2 l BAP Cabbage 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 l BAP Centre-Barred Sallow 1 15 16 1 4 5 Chamomile 3 3 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Cheddar Pink 1 1 1 1 Cinnabar 11 78 89 9 37 46 4 12 16 4 8 12 3710347 11 11123112 11 11 11 11 11 113710347 Cod 1 1 1 1 Common Fan-Foot 4 4 1 1 Common Frog 197125324117105224111122 710172 21 12 21 1 55 44 11 11729527 11 11213112 4 4 4 4 5 5 4 4 Common Porpoise 40848178252 22 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 l BAP Common Scoter 4 913 4 610 1 3 4 1 2 3 1 1 2 1 1 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 2 Common Seal 6 6 4 4 Common Toad 107 33 140 73 31 104 14 5 19 9 5 14 1 1 1 1 11 113 33 310 105 5 11 11123123 11 113 33 3 11 11 Corn Bunting 4 2 6 4 1 5 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 l BAP Corn Buttercup 1 1 1 1 Corncockle 2 2 1 1 Cornflower 2 1 3 2 1 3 Creeping Marshwort 1 1 1 1 Crescent 13316112 33 11 3 3 1 1 Crucian Carp 1 2 1 2 Cuckoo 15 31812 315 3 1 4 3 1 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 Curlew 16 45 61 13 13 26 6 5 11 4 3 7 1 1 1 1 1 5 6 1 3 4 4 4 2 2 1 1 1 1 Dark Brocade 15 2 17 4 2 6 Dark Spinach 7 2 9 2 2 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Dark-Barred Twin-Spot Carpet 62 16 78 2 4 6 1 4 5 1 2 3 1 1 1 1 2 2 1 1 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 Darnel 3 3 3 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Daubenton's Bat 42 7 49 7 3 10 l BAP Deep-Brown Dart 3 1 4 2 1 3 Dingy Skipper 15 90 105 10 35 45 7 7 4 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 6 6 3 3 l BAP Divided Sedge 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Diving Beetle 1 1 1 1 Dot Moth 54247 41014 1 8 9 1 3 4 1 2 3 1 1 2 4 4 1 1 2 2 1 1 1 2 3 1 1 2 Double Dart 46 46 6 6 Downy Willow 4 4 3 3 Downy Woundwort 1 1 1 1 Dunnock 40 56 96 21 32 53 23 9 32 8 7 152131122131123252131341341 11 116521347 123123325213 Dusky Brocade 1822406410 33 11 3 3 1 1 Dusky Thorn 12021156 11 11 1 1 1 1 Dusky-Lemon Sallow 2 2 1 1 Ear Moth 47 47 2 2 Eel 3 3 3 3 Esthwaite Waterweed 2 6 8 1 4 5 Feathered Gothic 24 24 1 1 Fieldfare 12 18 30 10 17 27 3 6 9 3 5 8 1121121 11 1 33 22123123 112112112112 Figure of Eight 4 5 9 1 3 4 Fine-Leaved Sandwort 2 2 1 1 Firecrest 6 1 7 5 1 6 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 Flounced Chestnut 1 1 1 1 Fly Honeysuckle 1 1 1 1 Galium Carpet 2 3 5 2 2 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Garden Dart 5 8 13 1 2 3 Garden Tiger 27 21 48 10 7 17 4 4 3 3 4 4 3 3 4 4 3 3 Garganey 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Ghost Moth 2013334610 33 11 3 3 1 1 Goat Moth 1 1 1 1 Golden Oriole 2 1 3 2 1 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Goldeneye 5 10 15 4 2 6 Goshawk 1 1 1 1 Grape-Hyacinth 325325213213 2 1 3 2 1 3 Grass Snake 6 6 6 6 Grasshopper Warbler 9 615 9 615 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 2 Grass-Poly 1 1 1 1 Grayling 59 135 194 23 85 108 8 44 52 5 25 30 6 26 32 3 13 16 1 2 3 1 2 3 9 9 6 6 5 5 3 3 1 18 19 1 7 8 6 26 32 3 13 16

Page 1 of 3 Appendix III: Species within Each Inventory Habitat

ALL DATA WITHIN ALL HABITATS Ancient woodland WET WOODLAND COASTAL SAND DUNES FENS GRAZING MARSH LOWLAND HEATH LOWLAND MEADOWS MARITIME CLIFF SLOPES MUDFLATS REEDBEDS SAND DUNES UNDERTERMINED GRASSLAND RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES NAME pre 1988post 1988all yearspre 1988post 1988all yearspre 1988post 1988all yearspre 1988post 1988all yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearsLOCAL BAP Great Crested Newt 80 17 98 52 11 64 10 2 12 4 2 6 4 2 6 3 2 5 6 6 1 1 l BAP Great Tassel Stonewort 2 2 2 2 Greater Yellow-Rattle 1 1 1 1 Green Sandpiper 4 4 4 4 Green-Brindled Crescent 46 7 53 1 3 4 Greenshank 422264371 11 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Grey Dagger 372360 91019 2 2 4 1 2 3 2 1 3 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 2 1 3 1 1 2 Grey Partridge 84250 72936 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 2 l BAP Grey Seal 86 4 90 12 4 16 l BAP Greylag Goose 1 1 1 1 Grizzled Skipper 2 2 2 2 Gyrfalcon 1 1 1 1 Harvest Mouse 117186410 22 11 22 11 2 2 1 1 2 2 1 1 l BAP Hawfinch 3 3 3 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Haworth's Minor 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Heath Rustic 2 5 7 2 2 4 4 4 1 1 4 4 1 1 Hedge Rustic 1015256283 32 2 3 3 2 2 3 3 2 2 Hedgehog 217 20 237 52 13 65 13 1 14 3 1 4 13 1 14 3 1 4 2 1 3 1 1 2 11 11 2 2 Helodium blandowii 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Hen Harrier 2810145 22 11 2 2 1 1 Herring 1 1 1 1 Hobby 3 4 7 3 3 6 Honey Buzzard 1 1 1 1 House Sparrow 34 67 101 22 29 51 19 3 22 9 3 12 4153141 11 12 22 212214325 1 1 1 1 4 1 5 3 1 4 l BAP Irish Lady's-Tresses 1 1 1 1 Isle of Man Cabbage 13 31710 314 8 210 5 2 7 8 2 10 5 2 7 8 2 10 5 2 7 l BAP Ivy-Leaved Crowfoot 10 4 14 8 3 11 l BAP Jacob's-ladder 2 2 2 2 Kentish Plover 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Kingfisher 1131493122 22 21 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Knotgrass 10 2 12 3 1 4 Knowlton's Thread-moss 1 1 1 1 Lackey 5 5 3 3 Lapland Bunting 2 2 4 2 1 3 Lapwing 14 55 69 10 20 30 6 2 8 3 2 5 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 5 5 2 2 1 1 1 1 l BAP Large Nutmeg 2 2 2 2 Large Yellow-Sedge 1 2 1 2 1 1 1 1 3 1 Latticed Heath 7384562127178167 11 11 11 11 22 22112112 2 2 2 2 1 5 6 1 4 5 2 2 2 2 Leach's Petrel 6 6 5 5 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Leisler's Bat 1 1 1 1 l BAP Lesser Spotted Woodpecker 6 4 10 5 3 8 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 2 Lesser Water Measurer 1 1 1 1 Linnet 45 165 210 26 26 52 20 10 30 8 6 14 5 2 7 3 1 4 2 5 7 2 2 413 215 3 2 5 1 1 1 1 5 2 7 3 1 4 l BAP Little Ringed Plover 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Little Tern 2 1 3 2 1 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Little-robin 1 1 1 1 Long-Tailed Duck 2 2 2 2 Lophozia perssonii 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Lunar Yellow Underwing 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Lundy Cabbage 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Luperina nickerlii 2 2 2 2 l BAP Lymnaea glabra 10 10 1 1 Mackay's Horsetail 156156134134 1 3 4 1 3 4 2 2 2 2 1 3 4 1 3 4 l BAP Mandarin 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Marsh Stitchwort 3 3 3 3 Meadow Clary 1 1 1 1 Mecopisthes peusi 4610134 22 22 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Mediterranean Gull 1 4 5 1 4 5 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Merlin 51722 4 812 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Minor Shoulder-Knot 3 3 6 2 2 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Mottled Rustic 49 12 61 5 3 8 Mouse Moth 6143104 4 812 3 3 6 2 2 4 3 1 4 2 1 3 2 2 1 1 3 1 4 2 1 3 Mud Wasp 1 1 l BAP Narrow-Bordered Bee Hawk 1 1 1 1 Natterer's Bat 3 2 5 1 2 3 l BAP Natterjack Toad 43 95218 422 6 410 4 1 5 3 4 7 2 1 3 2 2 1 1 145112347213 l BAP Neglected Rustic 1 1 1 1 Nightjar 4 4 4 4 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 Noctule 8030111221336 6 511 4 2 62 21 12 21 12 22 2213112 5 5 2 2 2 2 1 1 2 2 1 1 2 2 2 2 l BAP Northern Yellow-Cress 9 9 6 6 Oak Hook-Tip 23133246 22 11 2 2 1 1 Oblique Carpet 1 2 3 1 2 3 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Osprey 1 1 1 1 Otter 16 52110 414 1 2 3 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 2 2 1 1 l BAP Palmate Newt 3 4 3 4 Peach-Leaved Bellflower 4 4 3 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Pennyroyal 3 3 2 2 Peregrine 33134 31114 1 6 7 1 2 3 1 1 2 1 1 2 5 5 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 2 Pheasant's Eye 1 1 1 1 Philodromus fallax 2 2 1 1 Physarum nudum 1 1 1 1 Pigmyweed 1 3 4 1 3 4 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 Pilot Whale 1 1 1 1 Pintail 3 2 5 3 1 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Pipistrelle 189 92 285 52 47 103 6 7 14 2 2 5 6 7 14 2 2 5 2 2 1 1 6 5 12 2 1 4 l BAP Plaice 1 1 1 1 Polecat 3 3 1 1 l BAP Powdered Quaker 61723 51015 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 Purple Sandpiper 22123257 44 11 4 4 1 1 4 4 1 1 Purple Spurge 1 1 2 1 1 2 Purple viper's-bugloss 1 1 1 1 Pycnoporus cinnabarinus 1 1 1 1 Pyrausta sanguinalis 1 1 1 1 Quail 2 2 1 1 Raitt's Sand-eel 1 1 1 1 Red Kite 2 2 1 1 Red Squirrel 149 3 153 30 3 34 28 1 29 2 1 3 28 1 29 2 1 3 27 27 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 2 Red-Backed Shrike 3 1 4 3 1 4

Page 2 of 3 Appendix III: Species within Each Inventory Habitat

ALL DATA WITHIN ALL HABITATS Ancient woodland WET WOODLAND COASTAL SAND DUNES FENS GRAZING MARSH LOWLAND HEATH LOWLAND MEADOWS MARITIME CLIFF SLOPES MUDFLATS REEDBEDS SAND DUNES UNDERTERMINED GRASSLAND RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES RECORDS SITES NAME pre 1988post 1988all yearspre 1988post 1988all yearspre 1988post 1988all yearspre 1988post 1988all yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearspre 1988post all1988 yearsLOCAL BAP Red-Tailed Carder Bee 1 1 1 1 Redwing 11 15 26 10 12 22 2 9 11 2 7 9 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 4 2 2 1 3 4 1 3 4 1 1 1 1 1 2 3 1 2 3 Reed Bunting 25 29 54 19 18 37 7 8 15 4 4 8 3251231 11 11451122 21 1 134123325123 l BAP Rest Harrow 2 2 2 2 Ring Ouzel 6 1 7 6 1 7 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Ringlet 1 1 1 1 l BAP Rock Cinquefoil 1 1 1 1 Roseate Tern 2 2 2 2 Rosy Minor 91322 5 510 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 2 Rosy Rustic 362360 6 613 2 2 4 2 2 4 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 Ruff 4 4 3 3 Rustic 133750336 22 11 2 2 1 1 Sallow 101222 4 711 3 1 4 2 1 3 3 1 4 2 1 3 3 1 4 2 1 3 Sand Lizard 3 3 1 1 Sandhill Rustic 45 45 14 14 4 4 2 2 1 1 1 1 3 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 l BAP Scaup 4 4 4 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Sea Barley 2 2 1 1 2 2 1 1 2 2 1 1 2 2 1 1 Sea bryum 2 2 1 1 Sea Lamprey 1 1 1 1 Sea Stock 1 1 1 1 Sea-Lavender 2 2 1 1 l BAP September Thorn 8 8 4 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Shaded Broad-Bar 24 27 51 3 15 18 7 7 2 2 4 4 1 1 3 3 1 1 Shore Lark 3 3 2 2 Shoulder-Striped Wainscot 29 12 41 4 4 8 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Silver-Studded Blue 205 205 11 11 195 195 8 8 195 195 8 8 l BAP Skylark 30 199 229 22 60 82 14 24 38 9 12 21 510153361 11 12111328106 63 3 1 4 5 1 2 3 51015 3 3 6 l BAP Slender Centaury 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Slender Marsh-Bedstraw 1 1 1 1 Slow-worm 2 2 2 2 l BAP Small Eggar 7 7 6 6 l BAP Small Heath 164 282 446 63 129 192 30 60 90 13 32 45 51722 51116 5 1 6 2 1 3152540 41216 31417 1 6 7 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 5 914 2 5 7 51722 51116 Small Phoenix 122231451 11 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Small Square-Spot 9134125 7 714 3 4 7 2 1 3 3 3 2 2 4 4 1 1 3 3 2 2 Small-Flowered Catchfly 1 1 1 1 Smooth Newt 107 34 142 80 27 108 11 2 13 5 2 7 2 2 1 1 3142131 11 1516112 2 2 1 1 Snow Bunting 5510437448325 2 3 5 2 1 3 2 1 3 1 1 2 134112235213 Song Thrush 386910719395821 728 5 6112131122131123 31 1112112 11 1115520246 1 1 2 1 1 2 3 3 1 1 l BAP Southern Damselfly 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Spinach 24 2 26 1 1 2 Spoonbill 1 1 1 1 Spotted cat's-ear 2 2 1 1 Spotted Crake 3 3 3 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Spotted Flycatcher 13316112134 43 32 21 12 21 1 2 2 2 2 l BAP Stag Beetle 1 11 11 11 111111111 Starling 44 151 195 26 36 62 21 7 28 9 6 15 2132131 11 121321316420437 112112213213 l BAP Straw Belle 1 1 1 1 Streak 1 1 2 1 1 2 Sword-Grass 11 11 3 3 Thorow-Wax 1 1 1 1 Three-Lobed Crowfoot 1 1 1 1 Tree Pipit 1031383116 64 4 1 1 1 1 5 5 3 3 1 1 1 1 Tree Sparrow 17102714 822 3 1 4 3 1 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 l BAP Tubular Water-Dropwort 58 4 62 40 3 43 6 1 7 5 1 6 1 1 2 1 1 2 4 4 3 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 2 Turtle Dove 1 2 3 1 2 3 Twite 2 2 2 2 Variable Damselfly 2 3 2 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 l BAP Velvet Scoter 2 2 1 1 Vernal Colletes 20 20 19 19 13 13 13 13 6 6 6 6 7 7 7 7 6 6 6 6 l BAP Viviparous Lizard 24 29 53 17 22 39 2 17 19 2 12 14 178145 11 11 33 22167156 6 6 3 3 1 7 8 1 4 5 V-Moth 33 33 1 1 Wall 164 148 312 58 91 149 14 30 44 6 16 22 426314 22 229101924611112167 22 22 11 11 44 22426314 22 11 Water Germander 1 1 1 1 Water Vole 200 12 212 49 12 61 19 4 23 4 4 8 1 1 1 1 11 112 2 1 3 8 311 2 3 5 11 1 12 2 1 3 l BAP Weevil 11 11 11 111111 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Welsh Groundsel 1 1 1 1 Whimbrel 6 410 6 410 2 1 3 2 1 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 Whiskered Bat 18 9 27 6 4 10 l BAP White Ermine 66 40 106 6 9 15 3 3 1 1 3 3 1 1 White Letter Hairstreak 203656 72128 6 713 2 3 5 22 11 66 22 6 6 2 2 1 1 1 1 6 6 2 2 l BAP White-Beaked Dolphin 1 1 1 1 l BAP Whiting 2 2 2 2 Whooper Swan 213213112112 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Wild Candytuft 1 1 1 1 Willow Tit 94138194 43 3 2 2 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 Wood Warbler 437437314314 1 1 1 1 3 3 3 3 1 1 1 1 Yellowhammer 11 15 26 11 10 21 4 4 4 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 l BAP Total Species 229 177 273 229 177 273 95 102 140 95 102 140 10 9 16 10 9 16 8 7 12 8 7 12 65 50 84 65 50 84 23 21 33 23 21 33 26 38 49 26 38 49 38 40 63 38 40 63 5 3 5 5 3 5 1 5 6 1 5 6 1 8 9 1 8 9 26 47 56 26 47 56 65 50 84 65 50 84 0 1 2 0 1 2 Total Records 4423 4021 8465 1740 1802 3563 23 47 70 16 30 46 20 44 64 13 26 39 134 153 287 102 102 204 95 57 153 36 39 76 88 128 217 49 84 134 184 333 517 73 93 166 16 4 20 5 4 9 2 16 18 1 10 11 1 12 13 1 8 9 67 139 207 36 84 121 134 153 287 100 102 202 0 2 5 0 1 2

Page 3 of 3

APPENDIX IV

Standard Phase 1 Habitat Codes Legend