BARI and Dorset Dogs have been working in partnership throughout the winter to raise awareness of how dog walkers can have a wildlife friendly walk, helping to look after Pool Harbours overwintering bird population.
During the Friday of half-term they held an event at Upton Country Park, leadings activities such as guided dog walks and bird watching sessions. Upton Country Park backs onto the beautiful Holes Bay, one of the best sites around Poole Harbour to enjoy a large number of overwintering species such as the avocet, black-tailed godwit and shelduck – all species that contribute towards the Poole Harbour Special Protected Area designation.
It was a lovely sunny day and Dorset Dogs enjoyed chatting to lots of dog owners about the importance of keeping their distance on walks so birds can feed and rest in the harbour undisturbed. BARI’s winter warden could be found down at the bird viewing area, using her telescope to show people different bird species up close, giving those new to birding in introduction into the wonderful world of birds that we are lucky to have on our doorstep.