Dog owners warned of bird nests at nature reserves

Dog owners have been warned to keep their pets under control as ground-nesting season starts for a rare bird.

Cumbria Wildlife Trust said South Walney Nature Reserve and Foulney Island Nature Reserve near Barrow are coming to life with birds including little terns.

As the birds nest on the ground their eggs are easily camouflaged among the shingle, meaning they can be trampled by dogs or chicks can be eaten or disturbed.

"Even a good-natured, curious dog can cause extreme disturbance as the birds will always perceive the dog as a very real threat, causing them to react," said Bekka Watts, assistant warden for the charity.

As well as the little tern, the reserve at Foulney Island is also home to visiting Arctic terns, while South Walney features birds including oystercatchers, ringed plovers, skylark and meadow pipits.

They are all ground-nesting.

Dr Jenna Kiddie, head of canine behaviour at the Dogs Trust, said it was important to remember any dog was capable of chasing as this was normal behaviour for the animal.

She said: "We urge dog owners to consider their surroundings, particularly when visiting areas where they might encounter wildlife."

She advised keeping dogs on a short lead as the best way to control them around wildlife or livestock.

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