Species rich coniferous plantation surrounding Trentabank reservoir with a large heronry
On the doorstep of the Peak District, Trentabank reservoir and the surrounding conifer plantations of Macclesfield Forest are owned by United Utilities and supply the town of Macclesfield with drinking water. Although a working environment, Trentabank and the forests are a haven for wildlife, and the Trust manages a small area of woodland with commanding views across the reservoir. Perhaps best known for its heronry (thought to be the largest in the Peak District with over 20 breeding pairs), the reserve is also a great place to seek out ravens and birds of prey. Stately red deer are shy residents of the forest, but can often be seen drinking from the reservoir in early morning. Changing water levels occasionally expose the reservoir banks, which become a popular feeding ground for small wading birds including common sandpiper, green sandpiper and little ringed plover. Flocks of crossbills are regularly seen feeding in the tree tops whilst in winter visitors including goldeneye and goosander join the resident water birds.