Public urged to take care not to disturb ground nesting birds

The public has been urged to take care not to disturb ground nesting birds during the Easter break.

Police, along with the RSPB NI and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, issued the joint call following some disturbances in Co Fermanagh and particularly in the Upper Lough Erne area in recent years.

They said breeding waders nest in a variety of habitats including wet grassland, cultivated land, wet upland heath, bogs, fens and clearings within reed beds.

Numbers of these birds have sharply declined over recent years, particularly the curlew, lapwing, redshank and snipe.

Their nests, in particular when they are in use or being built, are protected under the Wildlife and Natural Environment Act (NI) 2011.

Sean Woods, of the RSPB NI, said early spring is a critical time for ground nesting waders as it is breeding season.

“These birds already face a multitude of threats and it is vital we support them and give them every possible chance to nest and rear young,” he said.

“Repeated disturbance at this time of year, especially when dogs are involved, could result in birds abandoning their breeding territories and nests.”

Superintendent Johnston McDowell said: “In recent years we have seen some disturbances in Co Fermanagh and particularly in the Upper Lough Erne area, with people and dogs on private land noted to have disrupted, and in some instances damaged, areas in which protected birds are known to nest and produce their young.

“We know that people will want to enjoy the Easter weekend out in nature but we urge you to do so in such a way as to respect the local bird population, other wildlife and the countryside.”

He added: “We work extensively with our partners to prevent and address the issue of disturbance to ground nesting birds on an ongoing basis.

“If we believe damage is being caused intentionally or recklessly, our officers can investigate with the support and assistance of the PSNI central Wildlife and Animal Welfare office.”

Police have also encouraged anyone with information relating to disturbance of ground nesting birds to report this on 101 or online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport.