Little tern chick on shingle at South Walney Nature Reserve © Cumbria Wildlife Trust
How you can help Cumbria's coastal wildlife
Detect and Protect
The coastline is home to much more than meets the eye. The species that call this place their home are fascinating, but some are less visible than others. Find out more about some of the animals here and how you can help protect them!
1. Stick to tracks and paths
It can be tempting to leave designated paths to explore different areas. By sticking to the paths, you’ll be keeping animals safe by not entering their habitat, which in turn will prevent disturbance and possible harm.
2. Bring binoculars
Want to see these amazing species close-up? The best way to do this is to bring binoculars along with you. This will allow you to observe from a safe distance without causing any disruption.
3. Use the hides
You can enjoy watching nature from the hides, without disturbing nature and the delicate ecosystems that thrive on the coast.
4. Find out which Nature Reserves allow dogs (and when)
Make sure you’re aware which nature reserves allow dogs. At South Walney, there is a no dogs policy. Foulney Island has a no dogs policy during bird breeding season (1 April – 15 August). Find out more.
5. Tread carefully
Ground-nesting birds can be masters of disguise. They have incredible nests that often blend into their surroundings, which is a useful way to hide from predators, but unfortunately means we often miss them, too! Make sure you’re aware of where you are stepping.
Species you may see
Birds
We are lucky to have such a huge variety of birds at South Walney Nature Reserve and Foulney Island. Thousands of migratory shore birds spend autumn and winter on the coastline.
Winter is harsh here, so finding enough food and opportunity to rest means the birds have a greater chance of surviving their return migration and being healthy enough to breed. Global numbers of all our shorebirds are in perilous decline.
You can help them survive winter by staying well away from large flocks on the shore.
Rob Jordan/2020VISION
Grey seals
Cumbria’s only grey seal colony is found at its very southernmost point. Seals use the protected beach here to haul out, to rest and moult, and to breed and give birth to their pups.
When seals are spooked their immediate reaction is to stampede into the sea. By doing this, they waste a lot of energy and injuries can be caused in the panic. As mothers can abandon their pups, we need to avoid this at all cost.
You can help them by avoiding our beaches. There are beautiful public beaches nearby at Biggar Bank and at West Shore.
If you are passing by the reserve in a water vessel, avoid coming onto shore and give the seal colony space by staying at least 100m away from any seals on land or in the sea.
Honeycomb worm ©Julie Hatcher/Dorset WT
Honeycomb worms
Did you know there’s an incredibly important habitat right underneath your feet? Honeycomb reefs are living reefs, created by honeycomb worms, and are really important as they provide a habitat for other species.
You can help by avoiding standing on these reefs, as it can damage them and the species they host.