In the early to mid 80's atleast (as I remember), Rindle Road used to be busy with birders, gathered to witness the excellent numbers of Hen Harriers and Short-eared Owls that used to winter in the area and of course Nightjar, Tree Pipit and Turtle Dove which were all mossland specialist species during the summer. With the huge decline and susequent loss of these species however, birders over the years have pretty much deserted the area apart from a few mossland stalwarts who still venture out there but the massive mossland revival of late, whilst extremely productive and long overdue has potentially and certainly could in the future cause friction between landowners and residents alike. With this in mind, birders visiting the area should consider the following points carefully:
1. Parking on Rindle Road is extremely limited. There is parking at the side of the road (by the ditch) opposite Rindle Cottages (currently being re-developed) for a few cars only and some by the fishing pond further down. No parking should be made at the entrance of any horse paddocks or at the top of the track to the feeding station or along Rindle Road in general, if all spaces are full then parking should be made along the road by the woodyards at the very bottom of Lower Green Lane before the brook and then there is a short walk up Rindle Road, which itself is likely to be the most productive option at all times
2. Astley Moss SSSI itself is actually a permit only site (this is the actual true mossland) and is potentially a very dangerous place with very deep, hidden ditches and pools.
3. Dog owners should be careful of allowing their dogs to roam too widely as complaints about dogs scaring horses have recently been received (not necessarily from birders of course!) and the whole area is managed for Pheasant and Partridge shooting, so consideration should be borne in mind.
It's a great place and residents are generally wildlife friendly and interested in birds especially so please consider your actions when you're there and I certainly hope the interest in the area continues
