Astley Moss
Ponds between the moss hummocks provide the ideal conditions for the aquatic stages in the lifecycle of many species of dragonfly, 10 species have been recorded on Astley and 5 of these are known to breed. The site is also important for a number of birds, particularly wintering raptors such as Hen Harrier, Short-eared Owl and Merlin. It supports breeding species including Curlew, Willow Tit, Tree Pipit and Winchat. Many of the native British mammals occur here with common shrew, rabbit, bank vole, short-tailed vole and long-tailed fieldmouse all included as prey for the hunting birds.
For more information on this and other bogs in the area visit the website of Lancashire, Manchester & North Merseyside Wildlife Trust