About L.O.S.

Leigh Ornithological Society (or L.O.S.) was formed in 1971 by a group of enthusiasts, some of whom had been observing and recording bird life in the area since the early part of the last century. They submitted records annually from the late 1940s to regional bodies, initially to the Lancashire and Cheshire fauna Society for possible inclusion in Lancashire bird reports and, since 1976, to the editor(s) of the Greater Manchester Bird Report. The Society now sends data to regional and national bodies such as the British Trust for Ornithology. Members also carry out species surveys and send information to the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust and the Greater Manchester Ecology Unit.

The aims of the Society are:
  • To further the studies of birds in the field and to assist in their conservation. 
  • To co-operate with other bodies in the maintenance and management of local areas of ornithological / natural history importance
  • To record bird life in the designated L.O.S. area, through a bi-monthly newsletter and annual report
  • Key points of the diverse work/roles carried out by the L.O.S. and its volunteers include: 
  • - Recording data (and not just about birds) for local, regional and national databases 
  • - Planting wildflowers and trees
  • - Erecting nest boxes and feeders (for bats and insects as well as birds);
  • - Working on local nature reserves (e.g. the LOS Pennington Flash Volunteers led by DS)
  • - Delivering presentations to schools, youth clubs, and adult groups;
  • - Leading nature walks
  • - Supporting local authority initiatives
  • - Providing a balanced environmental perspective with regards local planning applications
  • - Advising local authorities on wildlife friendly initiatives
  • - Supporting other local community groups e.g. Friends of Lilford Park
  • - Helping raise money for the LOS and raising awareness of the LOS with the public via    newspapers, website, Facebook, newsletters, radio and TV etc.
  • - Providing support and guidance to new members
  • - Arranging regular illustrated talks on wildlife themes which are open to the public
  • - Fieldtrips and meetings support both physical and mental wellbeing through the exercise and social interaction involved
  • - Bird rescue (injuries, trapped, endangered)

Work done by LOS volunteers serves the local community meeting local needs with local solutions.