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Dog walkers urged to take care around nesting sites

Wed, 10 May 2017

Dog walkers are being urged to keep their pets on leads near nesting sites of Arctic, Little and Common Terns.

The disturbance of these birds, their young or their nests is an offence under the Island's Wildlife Act.

Tern eggs look similar to beach stones and can be stood on by birds or dogs, which is why areas where nesting takes place are being roped off.

There are currently two areas at the Point of Ayre and two at Smeale, with more likely as birds continue to head to the Island from the Southern Oceans.

Anyone witnessing incidents of birds being disturbed is urged to contact DEFA or the Wildlife Crime Officers at Ramsey Police Station.

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