Woolston Eyes restored wetland hosts largest colony of rare UK bird
Ecological success as grebe numbers rise in Cheshire
The restoration of Woolston Eyes, a previously neglected wetland in Cheshire, has led to it becoming a sanctuary for nearly two-thirds of the UK's breeding black-necked grebes — one of the rarest breeding birds in the country.
Once a dumping ground for dredged material from the Manchester Ship Canal, Woolston Eyes has been transformed into the UK's largest colony of these distinctive birds, renowned for their golden facial tufts.
The wetland's revival began in 2021, converting it into a network of freshwater pools and reedbeds managed by RSPB wardens and the Woolston Eyes Conservation Group.
Initially, in 2023, four pairs of black-necked grebes bred successfully, raising 15 young. By 2025, 35 breeding pairs were recorded across the reserve, with 29 in the newly restored area.
Though the presence of 60 birds this spring may seem modest, considering their scarcity in the UK, it marks a significant conservation achievement.
This project exemplifies successful collaboration between industry and wildlife conservation, showcasing the potential for ecological restoration to benefit threatened species.