Over the weekend, the Cumbria Wildlife Trust warned dog owners that their reckless behavior is threatening local nesting birds, reported the BBC.
Apparently, the Trust has received multiple “alarming” reports regarding events at South Walney Nature Reserve. According to their website, the Cumbria Wildlife Trust normally allows dog-walking at most of their nature reserves. “However,” the website says, “in order to protect ground nesting birds from disturbance, dogs are not permitted at South Walney Nature Reserve at any time.” Importantly, there are notable exceptions for guide and assistance dogs.
Where Do These Nesting Birds Live?
Just south of the famed Lake District, South Walney Nature Reserve sits at the mouth of Morecambe Bay, facing the Irish Sea along the UK’s western coast.
Among the reserve’s vast marshlands, scientists have recorded over 250 species of birds, many of them migratory. Nature reserve officer Paul Waterhouse said that particularly in March and April, ground-nesting birds are highly vulnerable to disturbances. Waterhouse explained, “It can be really hard to see the speckled bird’s eggs and the little chicks can be extremely well-camouflaged too. Even a very well-behaved dog on a lead will scare birds away from their nests.”
Unfortunately, even with all these explicit prohibitions, the animals that call South Walney home continue to be disturbed. Over a year ago, The Mail reported that a pair of unleashed dogs had unfortunately scared the seals from their breeding ground. Thankfully, officials said the seals eventually returned. Regardless, marine conservation officers said disturbing the seals can significantly harm and endanger them.
Officials Are Hoping That Awareness Will Prevent Future Accidents
Unfortunately, it isn’t just South Walney that’s dealing with careless dog owners. In Dartmoor—across the country on England’s southern coast—officials are complaining that unleashed dogs there are terrorizing sheep. Like South Walney, Dartmoor is not only a protected natural area, but it’s also a working pasture for grazing animals.
As a result, conservation workers are working with media outlets to educate the public on rules and regulations regarding dogs. Ideally, raising awareness will help dog owners enjoy these natural areas while preserving safe spaces for wildlife.
