People in the West Midlands urged to give birds space this Easter
The RSPB are urging locals to take simple steps this Easter to protect vulnerable ground-nesting birds
Last updated 5th Apr 2026
Residents across the West Midlands are being urged to take extra care in the countryside this spring to help protect vulnerable ground-nesting birds.
With more people expected to head outdoors over the Easter holidays, conservationists from the RSPB are warning that increased footfall could put nesting birds at serious risk.
Spring marks the start of the breeding season for many species, with birds nesting on the ground between March and September.
Popular walking spots, parks and nature reserves across the region can unknowingly become dangerous areas for these birds, whose nests are often well camouflaged and difficult to spot.
Species such as Curlew, Little Tern, Nightjar, Stone-curlew and Lapwing are among those most at risk. Many are already in decline and are listed as conservation priorities in the UK.
Experts say even brief disturbances from walkers, dogs or water users can have serious consequences.
Adult birds may abandon their nests if they feel threatened, leaving eggs to cool or chicks exposed to predators.
Dr Conor Pharaoh-John, from the RSPB said: “The closer the bird’s nest is to the ground the more at risk it is to accidental disturbance mainly from people, who will likely be unaware the nest is there, and dogs freely roaming off lead.
"Exploring the countryside with our dogs is a great activity to get us out of the house and connecting to our local greenspaces. However, whilst we mean no harm to wildlife, people and dogs appear as potential predators to a bird, especially those nesting on the ground.”
To prevent disturbance the RSPB advices that people keep to marked paths to avoid disturbing birds that may be nesting on the ground.
Dog owners are also asked to keep their pets under close control to help protect birds, their eggs and chicks.
Finally, people should give birds plenty of space, keeping at least 100 metres away if they see birds on a nest or chicks moving around nearby.