RSPB reserves begin reopening as lockdown eases
As we head back outdoors, the RSPB is looking carefully at how they reopen their nature reserves safely for both people and wildlife. Nature is still in crisis, with more than 40 million birds having vanished from UK skies in just 50 years and one in ten of our wildlife are critically endangered.
They are asking visitors be considerate of other users, stay local and plan any journeys. And keep checking the advice of your government and respect each other using social distancing as we reopen trails and viewpoints.
They are doing everything they can to help you enjoy a safe experience, including adding signage that will help you explore their reserves safely and discover wildlife. In return, there are some actions you can take so you can stay safe and avoid disturbing nature at this critical nesting time.
Please follow these five simple steps to help wildlife and get you back into the countryside:
- Stay Alert – any habitat can be a home for wildlife and many species hide in plain sight on beaches, grass verges, even on paths!
- Stick to paths and bridleways – keep to the spaces we usually use most – our amazing network of public footpaths and bridleways across England
- Keep dogs on leads in the open countryside – a dog bounding through a nest can pose a real threat
- Back away if you disturb a breeding species – sharp alarm calls, birds with full beaks or coming unusually near to you means you’re too close to chicks, so back up the way you came, being careful where you step
- Report bad behaviour – if you see anything suspicious, such as evidence of wildlife crime, fly-tipping or uncontrolled fires, report this to your local wildlife crime officer on 101.
The following nature reserves (including their car parks and some trails where applicable) are now open.
Open reserves:
- Aylesbeare
- Lydden Valley
- Wallasea
- Dingle
- North Warren and Aldringham Walks
- Snape Warren
- Wolves Wood
- Berney Marshes
- Buckenham Marshes
This list will be updated regularly so please check here before visiting a reserve and follow all government guidelines.
RSPB
25 May 2020
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