Easter warning issued over disturbance to protected nesting birds across Northern Ireland

Curlew

(Photograph by Matthew Dean, RSPB volunteer)

As Northern Ireland heads into the Easter weekend, the Police Service of Northern Ireland has joined forces with RSPB NI and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency to issue a strong public warning over the disturbance of native breeding waders and other ground-nesting birds.

The appeal comes at one of the most critical times of the year for some of the region’s most vulnerable bird species, with conservation bodies warning that even repeated disturbance by walkers or dogs can cause birds to abandon nests and breeding territories altogether.

With many families expected to make the most of the long weekend by visiting the countryside, coastline and open spaces, authorities are urging the public to enjoy nature responsibly and remain alert to the presence of protected wildlife.

Species already under serious pressure

Breeding waders nest in a wide range of habitats across Northern Ireland, including wet grassland, cultivated land, wet upland heath, bogs, fens and clearings within reed beds.

However, their numbers have fallen sharply in recent years.

Four species in particular — Curlew, Lapwing, Redshank and Snipe — are now considered to be of significant conservation concern.

These birds are especially vulnerable during early spring, when nesting and breeding activity is at its peak.

Officials have reminded the public that active nests — including those currently being built — are protected by law under the Wildlife (Northern Ireland) Order 1985, as amended by the Wildlife and Natural Environment Act (Northern Ireland) 2011.

Disturbing nests in use, whether intentionally or recklessly, may therefore constitute a wildlife crime.

Concerns over recent disturbances

Inishroosk, Fermanagh.

(Photo by Jonathan Pinnick, RSPB)

Police say incidents in recent years have raised growing concern, particularly in parts of County Fermanagh.

Police Service lead for Rural and Wildlife Crime Superintendent Johnston McDowell said:

“In recent years we have seen some disturbances in County 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 protected birds 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 the countryside.”

The reference to the Upper Lough Erne area is likely to resonate beyond Fermanagh, serving as a wider reminder across Northern Ireland that increased footfall during holiday weekends can have real consequences for wildlife habitats.

For readers across Ballymena and the wider region, the message is equally relevant in local coastal areas, wetlands, farmland margins and upland walking routes where these species may be present.

“A critical time” for breeding birds

RSPB NI has underlined just how sensitive the current period is for these birds.

Seán Woods of RSPB NI said:

“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.”

That warning is particularly significant given the already declining numbers of several native wader species.

Conservation experts have long highlighted habitat loss, land use change and environmental pressures as major threats. Human disturbance during breeding season can add yet another pressure at the worst possible time.

For species such as the Curlew — whose haunting call is one of the defining sounds of the countryside — loss of breeding success can have lasting consequences for local populations.

Wildlife crime will be investigated

Superintendent McDowell said police will continue to work closely with partner agencies to tackle the issue.

He added:

“We work extensively with our partners to prevent and address the issue of disturbance to ground nesting birds on an ongoing basis. 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.

“Any reported wildlife crime will be taken seriously and appropriately dealt with and investigated accordingly.

“We urge everyone to respect the habitats of our rare bird species when out and about in the countryside or on the coast. We also encourage anyone with information relating to disturbance of ground nesting birds, to report this on 101 or online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport

“Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Please be assured, we will continue our efforts with our partners in tackling wildlife crime across Northern Ireland.”

What this means for Easter visitors

The public message ahead of Easter is clear: keep to designated paths where possible, keep dogs under close control, and avoid entering fields, wetlands, dunes or other areas where birds may be nesting on the ground.

Unlike tree-nesting birds, these species often lay eggs in shallow scrapes on open ground, making nests difficult to spot and highly susceptible to accidental trampling or disturbance.

For communities across Northern Ireland, including readers in Ballymena and surrounding areas, the appeal is both a legal reminder and a conservation call to action.

With several native species already facing steep declines, the success of this year’s breeding season could prove crucial in helping protect Northern Ireland’s wildlife heritage for future generations.

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At a glance:

• PSNI, RSPB NI and NIEA have issued an Easter weekend wildlife warning

• Public urged not to disturb ground-nesting birds and breeding waders

• Four species of particular concern: Curlew, Lapwing, Redshank and Snipe

• Disturbance by people and dogs has been reported in Upper Lough Erne

• Wildlife crime reports will be investigated under Northern Ireland law

• Public asked to report concerns via 101 or Crimestoppers