This SSSI reserve lies on the edge of the extensive Dee Estuary, looking out towards Hilbre Island, and just a short walk from Hoylake or West Kirby. It is managed by the Cheshire Wildlife Trust and is made up of sand dunes, reedbeds and marsh. More information about this site can be found on the Cheshire Wildlife Trust website here.

Recorders: Chloe Aldridge, Phil Brighton, Leanna Dixon, Elina Doss, Mike Edwards, Gary Hedges, Keith Fowler,  Liz Young

Notable Records:

Molophilus pleuralis (Limoniidae), K. Fowler.
• Only two previous VC58 records and none since 2001 according to the regional checklist (P. Brighton 2017).

Eupelix cuspidata (Cicadellidae), P. Brighton & K. Fowler.
• No Cheshire records on the recording scheme maps (ledra.co.uk)
• Occurs in dry habitats inland as well as on the coast. Widespread but uncommon in the UK.
• Very distinctive with a massive keel on the head which extends across the eyes

Saldula opacula (Saldidae), K. Fowler.
• Probably new to VC58. Does not appear on Aquatic Heteroptera Recording Scheme maps, RECORD database or NBN Atlas.
• Bimodal habitat: saltmarshes and the shores of high-altitude lochans and pools.

Osmia aurulenta Gold-Fringed Mason Bee (Megachilidae), L. Dixon & C. Aldridge
• New site record at Red Rocks and one of only a few from Cheshire, all from the Wirral.
• Restricted to the coast in North West England. Commonly builds nests in empty snail shells.

Chloriona glaucescens (Delphacidae), P. Brighton.
• No Cheshire records on the recording scheme maps (ledra.co.uk), a saltmarsh specialist.

Download Red Rocks Species List & Raw Data [Excel spreadsheet] last updated 18/11/2022

A key for the ‘Conservation status’ column is available in the above download.