Keep your dog on a lead in spring
Spring is the nesting season for our ground nesting birds such as:
- Woodlark
- Nightjar
- Dartford warblers
They hide among the heather and bracken. But if a dog disturbs them, they fly away, leaving their eggs and chicks vulnerable. Too much disturbance can make them leave their nest forever. These birds are getting rarer, so places like Avon Heath are crucial for their safe nesting.
The birds and the cows
Birds know that cows are not predators. When a cow comes close, birds don’t get scared and fly away like they do with dogs. Birds can tell that cows are friendly because cows have eyes on the side of their heads, not in front like dogs' eyes.
Reptiles
Disturbed reptiles that haven’t had time to warm up in the sun are slow and sluggish. This makes them an easy target for canine predators. Adders are also on the park and might bite if they feel threatened. So, keep your dog close on a lead to give these reptiles a chance to escape.
A quick word about poop
A dog’s diet is very protein rich and so their poop is full of nutrients. But those nutrients are bad for the heathland. The vegetation on heaths relies on nutrient poor soil. That’s why it’s important that owners pick up their dog’s poop, even if it’s not on the path. If we leave the poop, the soil gets too rich and grasses and invasive plants take over. That’s not good for the native plants that the rare wildlife here relies on.
We love having dog walkers in the park. We know that most owners are responsible and care about our wildlife. Let’s protect these rare animals and keep our protected status. We are very thankful for your continued understanding and support.