THE importance of Cheshire in the story of an iconic water bird was highlighted on national television.
BBC Countryfile featured the historical significance and elegant courtship ritual of great crested grebes in an interview with Cheshire Wildlife Trust at Tatton Park.
Presenter Ellie Harrison spoke to the trust’s honorary vice presidents Professor David Norman and Ben Hall.
Ornithologist Professor David Norman said: “It was great that Countryfile recognised the iconic importance of Cheshire in the history of Great Crested Grebes.
"When the species was persecuted almost to extinction in the mid-19th century, their feathers being used to adorn ladies’ hats, half of the entire British breeding population was on the secluded waters of Cheshire.
“It is not an accident that Cheshire Wildlife Trust’s members’ magazine is called The Grebe.”
Award-winning wildlife photographer Ben added: “Great Crested Grebes have always been one of my favourite birds and I was delighted to be able to share them with the millions of people who watch Countryfile.
"Their intricate courtship display is mesmerising to watch and it was good that they performed for us on the day of our filming.”
If you missed Countryfile’s visit to Cheshire watch again on the iPlayer at http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b055ns10/countryfile-cheshire
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