Groundnesting birds and dogs

The South Downs is home to a wonderful array of wildlife, especially birds, many of which nest on the ground in the heathland and amongst the gorse of open downland.

Species such as the woodlark, nightjar and Dartford warbler have found a footing in parts of the South Downs. Between March and September, these birds choose to nest and raise their young in the National Park.

To help protect these birds, it’s really important for dog walkers to stick to the paths and keep their dogs on the lead. This will help ensure nests remain undisturbed and keep potential threats away from vulnerable baby birds.