It’s been a troublesome time for wildlife, and on the Landguard Nature Reserve, at Felixstowe, particularly so for the Ringed Plover. So, this yr some modifications will probably be made to provide them a greater likelihood.
Ringed Plover breed at Landguard and select their nesting websites on the bottom amongst the uncommon, vegetated shingle habitat. They are very delicate to disturbance, together with from individuals, kites, drones and particularly dogs.
They scrape shallow depressions within the shingle and lay their eggs immediately on to the bottom. Their eggs are very small and completely mix into the shingle setting making them very tough to see.
Cordons cut back the chance of disturbance and trampling round their nest websites nonetheless the Ringed Plover is a wading chicken that should feed on the seaside, the place they proceed to be disturbed, and the place the chicks as they get older and must feed for themselves are at their most vulnerable.
This is why between the nesting season from 1st April to thirtieth September dogs won’t be allowed on the seaside on the southern part of the character reserve, on or off lead. Also fishing throughout this era shouldn’t take place in entrance of cordons because it additionally causes disturbance and attracts predators.
This space will probably be clearly signposted and frequently patrolled.
Dogs will proceed to be allowed to train on or off lead on the northern part of the character reserve, together with the seashores, and could be walked on result in the landward facet of the cordons. Fishing can take place on the northern part and alongside the river.
Ringed Plover are an iconic species right here at Landguard, and though very a lot cherished by guests have gotten a much less frequent sight.
We hope with the public’s assist and consideration they proceed to efficiently breed right here for a lot of years to come back.
Ringed Plover are protected by the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 and are a Red checklist species, as a result of their declining inhabitants and are subsequently a conservation precedence.
For extra info, please contact the Landguard Trust by e-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.discoverlandguard.org.uk
