MUCH CHERISHED, YES, BUT FREE-ROAMING DOGS CAN POSE A THREAT TO OUR PRECIOUS WILDLIFE

Dogs can make life difficult for  birds that feed, nest or roost on the ground

AN alert has been sounded on the threat  posed to wildlife by dogs.

It comes in a policy document commissioned by Green Party MP Caroline Lucas.

It states: "Dog ownership among the British people has increased substantially in recent years to nearly 9 million animals. 

"Dogs are a cherished part of home life. 

"Most of the British countryside is a dog-friendly environment, but while the impacts of cats on wildlife are well known, dogs also place major pressures on nature-rich areas. 

"They can cause damage and disturbance to livestock, to wildlife and to some habitats, for example, rivers and lakes. 

"In areas with statutory designations - national parks, AONBs, SSSIs, NNRs - dogs should be kept on a lead, especially at certain seasons or not permitted at all in some instances."

It is not known yet if tighter controls on dogs will form part of the Green Party's official  policy on the environment.

The document can be read in full at:
https://bit.ly/34XuUiU
                                    

Beach-feeding birds such as snow buntings are often disturbed by dogs