Wardens watching over the site recently observed 24 breaches of the exclusion zone within one afternoon – with dogs also getting too close to the nesting area.
Derek Wood, Tees Valley Wildlife Trust Warden, said that even brief disturbance can cause adult birds to leave their nests, leaving eggs and chicks vulnerable.
He said: “These birds have chosen our coast after an incredible journey and they’re relying on us to give them the space they need. Keeping dogs away from the site really does make a difference.”
As part of Hartlepool Borough Council’s seasonal dog exclusion zone to help keep the beach clean for visitors, dogs are not allowed on the area of beach stretching from the Norton Hotel to the coach park – which includes the little terns’ nesting site – from 1 May to 30 September.
Gemma Ptak, the council’s Director of Housing, Growth and Communities, said: “While the majority of dog owners are responsible and considerate, it’s really disappointing that some are taking dogs into the dog exclusion zone. This not only risks the beach not being clean for the visitors who use it, especially children, but it also puts the fragile nesting of the little terns in jeopardy. We would urge people to report any breaches of the dog exclusion zone to us.”
People can report issues – including any breaches of the dog exclusion zone – at online.hartlepool.gov.uk, using the section ‘Report an Issue in the Area’.
