Andrew Chick Ecology

Yet again, dogs have been seen running unchecked across Roosecote Sands, a designated Special Protection Area (SPA) for its important birdlife. On this occasion, two large pointer-type dogs were photographed freely roaming across the sands, flushing adult female Eiders and chasing their vulnerable chicks in the process.

These are not one-off incidents. The same dogs have been observed repeatedly disturbing the area, strongly suggesting this is a regular routine for the owner. Despite appearing to realise the impact, repeatedly using a whistle in a failed attempt to recall them, the owner made no effort to prevent the dogs from entering the sensitive habitat in the first place. When approached and politely informed that his dogs were disturbing protected wildlife, he chose to walk away without comment.

Roosecote Sands is protected for good reason. The SPA supports important breeding and overwintering bird species, many of which are highly sensitive to disturbance. Female Eiders and their ducklings are especially vulnerable at this time of year. Repeated disturbance can lead to chicks becoming separated, increased predation risk, or even abandonment.

Responsible dog ownership is not optional in these areas, it’s vital. There are guidelines for visitors to site’s with protected status and the importance of keeping dogs under close control or on leads. The majority of local dog owners do act responsibly, but repeated disregard by a few threatens the very wildlife the SPA was created to protect.

Awareness, respect, and compliance are key to ensuring that Roosecote Sands, Westfoield Point and the general area around Barrow in Furnace remains a refuge for birds. Without it, the breeding success of sensitive species could be seriously undermined.