Cheetham Wetlands

Cheetham Wetlands consists of lagoons and saltmarshes of varying salinity levels created through the activities of a Saltworks that used to operate in the area. Deliberate creation of a number of relatively shallow ponds provides an environment which attracts many birds who like to feed on vegetation, insects, larvae and other small animals both in the water and on the pond floor. The Wetlands are protected, through international agreements, as important habitats for wildlife.

Many birds return year after year, travelling 9,000 - 19,000 km to this wetland habitat to feed and roost. These birds breed mainly in the northern hemisphere during June and July and migrate southwards between July and November. Some shallow ponds have been invaded by vegetation, creating a saltmarsh environment. Many vegetation types have been scattered across the wetlands so that a variety of plants are available to meet the birds' needs for roosting, wind protection and nest building material.