Protecting birds in Chorley

All About Birds

Birds bring life to Chorley’s parks, gardens, and countryside. They are essential pollinators, pest controllers, and indicators of environmental health. Their presence reflects the richness of our local biodiversity, whereas their decline signals trouble.

Across the UK, bird populations have plummeted with over 30 million birds vanishing from our skies since the 1960s. In Chorley, species like house sparrows, starlings, and swifts are increasingly rare due to habitat loss, pollution, and climate change.

image of a bird sat on a branch

Did you know?

Feeding bread to birds might seem kind, but it can actually harm them!

Bread offers little nutrition and can fill birds up without giving them the energy or nutrients they need to stay healthy. In large amounts, it can lead to malnutrition, especially in young birds, and contribute to diseases like angel wing in waterfowl. Mouldy bread can also make birds sick.

Instead, offer birds seeds, grains, or specialist bird food to support their wellbeing.

Conservation in Chorley

Chorley’s green spaces, like Yarrow Valley Park and Astley Park, are vital habitats for birds. Local groups and national organisations like the RSPB and British Trust for Ornithology work to protect nesting sites, monitor populations, and restore habitats. Community-led birdwatching and citizen science projects are also helping to track changes and raise awareness.

At certain times of the year, our team of rangers make and install nesting boxes to support various species in some of our woodland areas such as Yarrow Valley Country Park. For example, Astley Park currently holds 30 bird nesting boxes which were built by the pupils of St Mary’s High School and installed during 2024.

Birds connect us to nature, and by protecting them in Chorley we’re preserving the beauty and balance of our local environment.

How can you help?

Create a bird-friendly garden

  • feed birds year-round with seeds, suet, and fruit
  • provide fresh water for drinking and bathing
  • plant native shrubs like hawthorn and holly for shelter and berries
  • install nest boxes for species like blue tits and swifts.

Reduce harm

  • avoid pesticides and herbicides—they poison birds and their food
  • keep cats indoors during nesting season
  • use natural pest control methods like ladybirds and neem oil.

Get involved

  • join local birdwatching walks or surveys
  • volunteer with conservation groups
  • share sightings with the BTO or RSPB to support research.