Tuesday, 28 July 2009

Disturbance by Dogs

This may elicit some discussion by blog readers as to whether the powers that be at sites such as Ynyslas should or indeed could take action:
A successful prosecution was brought by Natural England in March 2009 against an individual for recklessly causing disturbance to birds by releasing their dogs on a nature reserve designated as an SSSI. The dog owner was fined £250 and ordered to pay £250 costs for disturbing birds.
The Site Manager of the RSPB's Hayle Estuary Nature Reserve said: "We are pleased with this result and it sends a clear message to others, that harassing wild birds on a nature reserve will not be tolerated."
Natural England's Director responsible for SSSIs said: "As highlighted by this case, bird disturbance is a significant problem in this area enjoyed by so many. We will continue to work with the RSPB and others to promote the importance of this estuary for wildlife".