Devon Wildlife Trust is asking dog owners to keep their pets on leads when visiting its nature reserves this spring.

The charity’s request is designed to protect struggling ground-nesting birds such as skylarks, lapwings, meadow pipits and nightjars, as well as other birds such as robins and dunnocks which nest close to the ground. Unsupervised dogs can unintentionally cause harm, so it is vital that they are kept under control.

Springtime brings with it the arrival of many exciting migratory species, which have travelled thousands of miles to nest at nature reserves throughout the UK. Many of these birds nest on or close to the ground, where they're particularly vulnerable. Disturbance from dogs can lead to them abandoning their nests and losing their eggs or chicks. Some bird species are already struggling and disturbance by dogs can make it even harder for them to survive.

Penny Mason, Devon Wildlife Trust’s Director for Wilder Living, says:

“As a dog owner myself, I know that dog walking is a great way for people to get out and enjoy nature, but dogs that are off leads and not under close control can be hugely damaging to wildlife. This is particularly the case during the spring and summer months when birds and other animals will be nesting and raising their young.

In return for providing opportunities for local people and visitors alike to enjoy our amazing nature reserves alongside their furry companions, we ask that dogs be always kept on leads when on DWT sites. Protecting wildlife and ensuring it can flourish is our mission and the reason why we have nature reserves. We ask that visitors respect this.”

Devon Wildlife Trust asks that at its 60 nature reserves:

• Visitors keep their dogs on leads at all times throughout all DWT reserves (apart from its South Efford Marsh nature reserve, near Kingsbridge, and Sourton Quarry nature reserve, near Okehampton are closed to dog access due to their highly sensitive nature);

• Visitors clear up after their dogs and take their dog waste home with them (unless a dog refuse bin is provided); and

• Professional dog walkers do not use its nature reserves to carry out their commercial activities.

Dr Jenna Kiddie, Head of Canine Behaviour at Dogs Trust, says:

“Dogs enrich our lives, but they also bring a level of responsibility. Whilst many of us enjoy taking our dogs for long walks, especially as it becomes a bit warmer, we urge dog owners to consider their surroundings, particularly when visiting areas where they might encounter wildlife. When visiting rural areas, owners should keep their dogs under control and ensure they do not worry other animals or stray from the path, as well as dispose of their dog's waste appropriately. We would advise keeping your dog on a short lead, and close to you, especially whenever livestock are nearby. It is important to remember that chasing is normal dog behaviour, and that any dog is capable of chasing, irrelevant of breed, type, age or size.”

Clare Webb, Countryside Code Project Manager at Natural England is supportive of The Wildlife Trusts’ initiative. She says:

“The Countryside Code helps us all respect, protect and enjoy our outdoor spaces.  Many of us enjoy nothing better than a walk with our dogs in the fresh air and the Countryside Code sets out how we can do this responsibly by keeping dogs on a lead, checking local signs, respecting livestock and those who work in rural areas.”

Many dog owners are passionate about nature and want to avoid harming it. However, even the best behaved dogs can unintentionally cause distress or harm wildlife, simply by following their natural curiosity. Birds perceive dogs as predators; when dogs roam freely, birds may abandon their nests, leaving eggs and chicks cold and unprotected. From keeping dogs on leads to sticking to designated walking paths, there's plenty we can do to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience – on two legs or four.