Little Tern Chicks Killed in Dog Attacks on Norfolk Beach
Protected nesting colony suffers a blow as off-lead dogs run through nests, killing vulnerable chicks and sparking outrage from conservationists
Rare Breeders Under Threat from Irresponsible Access
A major Little Tern breeding colony on the Norfolk coast has been devastated by a series of dog attacks, with at least four chicks confirmed dead and many more nests likely compromised. The incidents occurred at an undisclosed site where conservationists have been working to protect one of the UK’s most important populations of this Amber-listed species.
Wardens and volunteers described scenes of chaos as off-lead dogs ran directly through the colony, with adult birds taking flight in panic and chicks being picked up and dropped. One warden was quoted in the Eastern Daily Press as witnessing a chick taken by a dog and later found dead.
The RSPB and local police have warned that dog owners could face prosecution under wildlife legislation protecting nesting birds. Despite extensive signage and roped-off areas, wardens report that some visitors continue to ignore restrictions.
Chicks Killed, Breeding Season Jeopardised
The colony had been experiencing a strong breeding season, with over 80 chicks fledged and more than 250 still on the shingle. Conservation teams had hoped 2025 would mark a record year for this vulnerable seabird.
Little Terns (Sternula albifrons) nest directly on beaches, making their eggs and chicks especially susceptible to disturbance. Even brief interruptions can cause desertion, overheating, or increased predation. In one incident last week, a dog was seen with a chick in its mouth before dropping it near the shoreline, where it was found dead minutes later.
Local volunteers, some of whom have worked daily throughout the summer to monitor the site, said they were “distraught” and “furious” over what they see as entirely preventable losses.
Police and RSPB Condemn Attacks
The attacks have prompted strong words from both the Norfolk Constabulary and conservation charities. PC Chris Shelley, a rural and wildlife crime officer, said: “This kind of behaviour is both distressing and illegal. People must understand the damage caused by letting dogs roam free on protected beaches.”
Steve Rowland, Area Manager for the RSPB, added: “It is devastating to see the impact of a moment’s thoughtlessness. A dog off a lead may seem harmless, but for ground-nesting birds like Little Terns, it can be catastrophic.”
He called on the public to help protect rare wildlife by respecting signage, staying out of cordoned-off zones, and always keeping dogs on leads near known nesting areas.
Conservation Appeal: A Call for Vigilance
Both organisations are urging anyone who witnessed the incidents to come forward. While no charges have yet been made, the public response has been one of shock and anger, particularly from local birders and conservation volunteers who have invested months of effort into protecting the site.
Little Terns are one of Britain’s rarest breeding seabirds, with just under 2,000 breeding pairs nationwide. Conservation work has focused on a handful of core colonies, including the affected Norfolk site, where measures such as fencing, predator control, and warden presence have helped stabilise numbers.
But as visitor numbers rise and dog ownership increases, conservationists warn that even one unrestrained pet can undo an entire season’s progress. Volunteers are now redoubling patrols, and discussions are underway about additional restrictions during future breeding seasons.
Respecting Nature: What Dog Owners Can Do
The message from all involved is clear: it is not enough to assume a dog is “well behaved.” Even a single chase or bark can cause irreversible harm to nesting birds. Conservation groups are encouraging all beachgoers to be part of the solution.
“We want people and wildlife to share our coasts,” said the RSPB. “But that depends on all of us playing our part. When signs ask you to keep your dog on a lead, it’s not a suggestion - it’s a lifeline for birds.”
With many chicks still vulnerable in the colony, wardens are urging immediate cooperation to prevent further tragedy.
August 2025
Share this story
