Dog owners have been issued advice as to what to do on walks (Image: Getty)
have been urged to do one thing to avoid a potential £1,000 fine. should be kept on a short lead, experts suggest, as they can have a “detrimental impact” on . They add that people should not walk large groups of dogs in nature reserves, and should clean up after their pets. This is especially the case between March 1 and July 31, when many birds nest on or near the ground.
Species such as skylarks and woodlarks are “especially vulnerable”, with their populations 86% more likely to suffer a population decline than other birds. This is exacerbated by habitat loss and human disturbance, ecologists note. The consultancy Arbtech says dogs are “one of the most prolific causes of disturbed wildlife”, and owners can “help wildlife by avoiding walking large groups of dogs in nature reserves, keeping dogs on short leads in the countryside, and cleaning up after their pets”.
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Dogs can have a ‘detrimental impact’ on wildlife, experts say (Image: Getty)
It points out that failing to follow these guidelines could also come at a financial cost, as local councils can issue £100 on-the-spot fines for dog fouling.
In addition, dog owners could face fines of up to £1,000 for not keeping their pets on a lead in designated areas such as open-access land, countryside, or farmland.
A spokesperson from said: “It’s vital that dog owners are aware of the impact their pooch can have on the environment. Without meaning to, our four-legged friends could do serious damage to already declining bird species if they are left to their own devices when walking in countryside areas.
“When the weather starts to warm up, it’s great to see many Brits enjoying the outdoors with their dogs, but we urge owners to take responsibility and think of the wildlife surrounding them.”
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Skylarks are one of the birds ecologists are worried about (Image: Getty)
They added: “Many species of birds are suffering a decline, and dogs roaming in wild places is most certainly a contributing factor here.
“Ground-nesting bird species are particularly vulnerable and unable to protect themselves from harm, so that’s where dog owners must help.
“You don’t have to make massive changes to your dog-walking routine, just a few small adaptations can make a big impact. Loose dogs could very easily stumble upon a ground-nesting bird and cause harm.
“Of course, it’s not just about keeping your dog on a shorter lead to help wildlife. You should also avoid walking large groups of dogs in nature reserves or countryside areas and always make sure to clean up after your pets.”