Thurstaston Common: Lowland Heathland

We had an enthusiastic group, two of whom had come all the way from Lymm - so we spent nearly 3 hours on the walk. We had fine weather, and a good walk all round Thurstaston Common with expert leading from Jon Twigg, the National Trust ranger. The heather, heaths and Western gorse were in full flower, and being enjoyed by a few late bees (and the small tortoiseshell butterfly).

Small tortoiseshell on heather

Views from the top of the Hill were well worth the climb. On the way back we visited the other managers - 6 Galloway cattle, who regarded us sleepily and continued chewing the cud. We learnt a lot about heathland and why it is so important, but takes so much management. Anyone who likes cutting down birch scrub, contact Jon Twigg!