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Warning after birds repeatedly disturbed at nature reserve

Wednesday, 11 March 2020

Turnstone birdThe Isle of Man Government has asked people using Derbyhaven beach for recreational purposes to be careful to minimise any disruption to birds. 

In recent weeks, the Government has received a number of reports of people and dogs disturbing birds on the beach. One report was of a man and dog walking up to a large flock of dunlin, redshank, ringed plover, grey plover and curlew that were feeding along the water's edge. 

Geoffrey Boot MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said:

'We ask that people do their best to avoid disturbing birds - by keeping a good distance from where they are feeding and resting, and keep their dogs under close control.' 

'Any disturbance can cause them to move along the shore - using up much needed energy and depleting important fat reserves.'

Curlew bird

Derbyhaven beach has been a designated bird sanctuary since 1936 and is classed as an Area of Special Scientific Interest and a Marine Nature Reserve in recognition of its wildlife. 

Langness, Sandwick and Derbyhaven are all important areas for wintering and migrant waders and wildfowl who feed on the shoreline, upper shore and surrounding coastal grassland. 

The sheltered coast is important for ducks (particularly teal, widgeon and shelduck) and waders (lapwing, oystercatcher and ringed plover) as well as Brent geese and visiting rarities. 

Malew Commissioners support the initiative to encourage responsible recreation on Langness which they said is very popular with walkers and windsurfers. 

*Photographs credit: Peter Christian

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