We all love to get outdoors with our dogs, for the fantastic exercise and the chance to explore together. Please be an aware and responsible dog walker and help us keep Tees Valley’s wildlife safe this spring.
The celebrated song of the skylark or burbling call of curlew are evocative and welcome spring sounds, as we start to explore our wonderful countryside again. Birds like these – whose numbers are in worrying decline – are currently making their fragile nests on the ground, tucked away safely in long grass.
What’s the problem?
An exuberant or inquisitive pooch, wandering or bounding through grass or heather, could easily disturb wildlife and scare adult birds off nests or trample eggs. And the vulnerable chicks can quickly perish if they are left alone for too long.
Nature reserves are first and foremost havens for wildlife; refuges for incredibly rare plants, animals and birds, or pit-stops and roosts for those moving about. We know how important the outdoors is for the health and wellbeing of all the family – and responsible walkers can help us by taking care when visiting and cleaning up after their dogs.
If you’d like to know more, the Countryside Code has lots of information and reminds us to respect, protect and enjoy the outdoors.
