Rare bird species sighted in Rochdale borough

Two rare species of geese have been spotted in the Rochdale borough, delighting local birdwatchers and wildlife photographers.

In early March, a brent goose was spotted at Hollingworth Lake, whilst a pink-footed goose was seen traversing the Rochdale canal between Slattocks and Castleton.

James Walsh, also known as The Mancunian Birder, says the brent goose is a very rare visitor to Rochdale, whereas the presence of the pink-footed goose 'highlights Rochdale’s amazing environment'.

He said: “The brent goose, which breeds in the High Arctic, is a very rare visitor to Rochdale.

“It’s a species that you usually have to travel to the coast to see, to places such as Hilbre Island on the Wirral, Roa Island in Cumbria, Pilling in Lancashire, the Inland Sea on Anglesey and Foryd Bay in Gwynedd.”

 

 

James continued: “The pink-footed goose seemed to be visiting a number of sites around the borough during the winter but settled in early March on the Rochdale canal between Slattocks and Castleton giving wildlife photographers a unique opportunity.

“Usually you have to travel to Martin Mere, Southport or The Fylde in Lancashire, or Norfolk to photograph this species. It’s a bird that highlights our amazing environment in Rochdale.

“The pink-footed goose breeding population is increasing in Iceland and more are spending the winter in Greater Manchester, especially on the mosslands of Salford and Trafford, so it could potentially be a more frequent sight in the Rochdale countryside, especially if we can manage the habitats in a way that is more compatible for wildlife.”

James concluded: “In the 1990s and early 21st century, Rochdale made national headlines as the only wintering site in England for the very rare Greenland white-fronted goose.

“Over the years, there have also been occasional sightings of barnacle goose and snow goose so it’s always worth taking a closer look at the big flocks of Canada geese.

“There is much potential for wildlife and eco-tourism in Rochdale, especially along the Rochdale Canal, but we need investment in our greenspaces, countryside services, and making farms more wildlife friendly, and to recognise the true value of our environment.”