Dog walkers risk seabird colony's future

Little terns, a protected species, are facing significant threats at their Seaton Carew nesting grounds due to dog walkers. Despite a seasonal dog exclusion zone implemented by Hartlepool Borough Council, wardens have documented numerous breaches. These disturbances, even brief ones, can cause adult birds to abandon their nests, leaving eggs and vulnerable chicks exposed.

Conservationists highlight that these tiny seabirds undertake a long migration from West Africa and rely on the community to provide a safe nesting environment. The species is currently classified as 'amber' on the UK's conservation concern list, underscoring the importance of protecting their nesting sites. Authorities are urging the public to report any infractions of the exclusion zone.

Ringed plovers also nest at this location, creating shallow ground nests that are easily disturbed. Gemma Ptak, director of communities for Hartlepool Borough Council, expressed disappointment over the disregard for the exclusion zone, noting it impacts both the birds' nesting success and the cleanliness of the beach for visitors. Little terns typically depart Seaton Carew by mid-to-late August.