The Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust is urging dog walkers to protect endangered bird species by keeping their pets on a leash to protect birds which lay fragile nests on the ground at this time of year; on beaches, urban parks and the wider countryside.
The celebrated song of the skylark and bubbling call of curlew are evocative and welcome sounds of spring, as people explore our wonderful countryside and urban commons again. However, birds like these – whose numbers are in worrying decline – are making their fragile nests on the ground, tucked away safely in long grass.
As such, the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust is asking dog walkers to work with them by keeping dogs on a leash. “It only takes an exuberant or inquisitive pooch, wandering or bounding through grass or heather, easily disturbs wildlife and scares adult birds off nests or tramples eggs. And vulnerable chicks can quickly perish if they are left alone for too long, explains the trust.”
Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust nature reserves are amongst the richest places for wildlife in the county and are the last home to some of the rarest species. The Trust are calling on dog walkers to check in advance if dogs are allowed, and if they are allowed, keep them on a short lead to avoid disturbance to nesting birds. Whether you’re visiting urban parks, the wider countryside or the beach, there are birds nesting on the ground – or just above it – that can be hard to see and are at risk of trampling, disturbance, and harm.
