I know that this thread is 8 years old but I don't see any harm in resurrecting it. One of the most reliable sites that I know for Cuckoo, admittedly not in GM, is the half mile to the north of White Coppice along The Goyt on the eastern slopes as far as Wheelton Plantation. I have heard Cuckoos regularly every May from here but today I heard one and had great views as well. I have never seen or heard a Cuckoo in April before.
Thanks for all your tips on finding Cuckoo. I managed to see one this afternoon, although out of county. A calling male showing very well at Frodsham Marsh.
Higher Hall Flash at Bickershaw. There's one there at the south side of the flash. I heard it calling all 3 nights I was fishing there last weekend. Also heard it on a previous visit.
Thanks John, Dave and Geoff for the info. I did spend a few hours after work this evening checking out the area around Rindle Road and Moss Lane but no joy with cuckoo. Guess the blustery weather didn't help.
Other birds around included...
1 Stonechat (male) 9 Tree Sparrow 5 Yellowhammer 1 Curlew 4 RL Partridge 1 Buzzard 2 Sand Martin (with mixed group of hirundines)
plus whitethroat, blackcap, chiiff,willow warbler and 40+ Swift
As John Tymon mentions in his post , Astley and Chat moss are the best places to visit. There are at least 3 Cuckoo`s present at the moment . Try walking down Moss lane or Rindle road checking the telephone poles and wires as this is where they perch when calling.
VERY LOUD BIRDS BUT HARD TO SPOT.
