Dog owners in Worcestershire are being encouraged to keep their furry companions on leads to safeguard birds and other wildlife.
Worcestershire Wildlife Trust has initiated Project Yellowhammer, aiming to raise awareness among visitors about local wildlife while promoting responsible dog ownership by keeping dogs on leads and staying on designated paths.
Initially implemented at the trust’s Dropping Well Farm and The Devil’s Spittleful nature reserves, nestled between Bewdley and Kidderminster, the project seeks to minimize disturbances to wildlife caused by free-roaming dogs and off-path exploration.
Ion Riley, the community wildlife warden at Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, emphasized the impact of unrestrained dogs on wildlife, particularly ground-nesting birds and reptiles.
Among the vulnerable species is the yellowhammer, known for its striking appearance and common presence in farmland habitats. Despite a 65% decline in numbers since the 1960s due to changes in farming practices, a small population persists on the periphery of The Devil’s Spittleful and Dropping Well Farm. Project Yellowhammer aims to provide vital support for these birds and other wildlife in the area.
Mr. Riley emphasized the importance of engaging visitors in positive discussions about local wildlife, with the hope of inspiring individuals to contribute to conservation efforts and share their knowledge with others.
This initiative is part of the broader Saving Worcestershire’s Heathlands project, which focuses on restoring farmland at Dropping Well Farm and creating connections between over 300 acres of heathland habitat in the region.