Plea to dog walkers to use leads in uplands to protect wildlife

Governments asks to avoid disturbing ground nesting birds and livestock

Dog owners are being reminded to keep their pets on leads when walking in uplands to help protect local wildlife.

It's to avoid disturbing endangered ground nesting birds which, at this time of year, are particularly vulnerable and can abandon their nest if disturbed.

People are also being urged not to let their dogs run free to avoid disturbing livestock, as lambing season is well underway.

Anyone found doing so could face a maximum fine of £10,000 under the Wildlife Act, which deems it an offence to intentionally or recklessly disturb nesting birds.