The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has linked up with the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) NI and Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) to protect breeding waders.
As we approach the Easter weekend and World Curlew Day on Monday, April 21, the PSNI has issued a reminder to the public of the importance of not disturbing native breeding waders and other ground nesting birds.
Breeding waders nest in a variety of habitats including wet grassland, cultivated land, wet upland heath, bogs, fens and clearings within reed beds and coastal saltmarsh.
Their numbers have sharply declined over recent years with four species – the curlew, lapwing, redshank and snipe – now considered to be a conservation concern.
The PSNI is reminding people of the law around their nests, in particular, when the nests are in use, or being built and the protection under the Wildlife (NI) Order 1985 as amended by the Wildlife and Natural Environment Act (NI) 2011.
Police Service lead for rural and wildlife crime, Supt. Johnston McDowell said: “In recent years we have seen some disturbances in Co. Fermanagh and particularly in the Upper Lough Erne area, with people and dogs on private land noted to have disrupted, and in some instances damaged, areas in which birds such as rare Curlews are known to nest and produce their young.
“We know that people will want to enjoy the Easter weekend out in nature but we urge you to do so in such a way as to respect the local bird population, other wildlife and countryside.”
West conservation manager for RSPB NI, Seán Woods added: “Early spring is a critical time for ground nesting waders as it is breeding season.
“These birds already face a multitude of threats and it is vital we support them and give them every possible chance to nest and rear young.
“Repeated disturbance at this time of year, especially when dogs are involved, could result in birds abandoning their breeding territories and nests.”
Supt. McDowell continued: “We work extensively with our partners to prevent and address the issue of disturbance to ground nesting birds on an ongoing basis, and if we believe damage is being caused intentionally or recklessly, our officers can investigate with the support and assistance of the PSNI central wildlife and animal welfare office. “
The PSNI has said that any reported wildlife crime will be taken seriously and appropriately dealt with and investigated accordingly.
It is urging everyone to respect the habitats of rare bird species when out and about in the countryside or on the coast.
Police are also encouraging anyone with information relating to disturbance of ground nesting birds, to report this on 101 or online at the PSNI website.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
