One of the most important sites in the region for rare invertebrates, and studied quite well over the years. The extensive site boasts a mosaic of habitats; limestone grassland, interspersed with scrub, limestone pavement, and ancient semi-natural woodland. A diverse herb-rich flora includes significant patches of Bird’s-foot trefoil, horseshoe vetch and kidney vetch, common rock rose and thyme. There is public access given by the three land owners – RSPB, Lancashire Wildlife Trust and Lancaster City Council.

Recorders: Gary Hedges, Jim Cresswell, Michael Read, Steve Garland, Chris Workman, Keith Fowler, Ben Hargreaves, Phil Brighton, Denis, John Wright Keir Flowerdew, Paul Brennan, Tony Hunter, Ben Smart

Notable Records:

Hilara hirtipes (Empididae), P. Brighton.

• New to VC60
• This follows a first Greater Manchester record in 2022. Widely scattered distribution according to NBN Atlas.

Platypalpus excavatus (Hybotidae), P. Brighton.

• New to VC60
• 52 records on NBN Atlas. Widely scattered from the South coast of England to Northern Scotland.

Platyura marginata (Keroplatidae), P. Brighton.

• New to VC60
• Widely recorded in the West Midlands and the Welsh borders. 127 records on NBN Atlas.

Dryope flaveola (Dryomyzidae), P. Brighton.

• New to VC60
• Apparently shade-loving. Widespread but local.
• 129 record on NBN Atlas. The majority in the west.

Cleigastra brevifrons (Scathophagidae), P. Brighton.

• New to VC60
• Just 18 NBN Atlas records but widely scattered.

Provisional Species List: