Protecting Ground-Nesting Birds: Keeping Dogs on Paths in Ashdown Forest

Introduction

Ashdown Forest is a breathtaking place to explore, full of open landscapes and wildlife. It’s a paradise for walkers and dog owners, but it’s also home to some of the UK’s rarest ground-nesting birds - species that depend on this landscape for survival.

Two-thirds of the forest is heathland, providing a vital habitat for birds like the Nightjar, which migrates all the way from Africa to breed here, and the Dartford Warbler, a resident species that thrives in this unique environment. These birds nest directly on the ground, making them extremely vulnerable to disturbance.

As responsible dog owners, we can help protect these birds by keeping our dogs on paths - especially during the breeding season (March to September). Read on to learn why this is so important and how a good recall can make all the difference.

Why Do Ground-Nesting Birds Need Protection?

Unlike birds that nest in trees or hedgerows, ground-nesting birds lay their eggs in shallow scrapes on the forest floor, hidden among heather and grass. While this provides some natural camouflage, it doesn’t protect them from unintentional disturbance.

If a dog strays from the path and runs through nesting areas, it can:

✔️ Trample eggs or chicks hidden in the undergrowth.

✔️ Scare away parent birds, leaving nests unprotected.

✔️ Cause birds to abandon their nests, reducing their chances of breeding successfully.

This is why Ashdown Forest Rangers and conservation groups urge dog owners to stick to designated paths. Even a friendly, curious dog can accidentally put these rare birds at risk.

The Importance of a Reliable Recall

A strong recall is one of the most valuable skills your dog can have. It allows them to enjoy off-lead freedom while ensuring they don’t disturb wildlife. Even the most obedient dogs can get caught up in exciting sights, smells, and sounds, so having a solid recall ensures you can call them back before they wander into sensitive areas.

Does Your Dog Need Recall Training?

• Do they sometimes ignore you when called?

• Do they get distracted by wildlife, scents, or other dogs?

• Do they run ahead instead of checking in with you?

If you answered YES to any of these, it’s time to work on recall training - not just for their safety, but for the protection of wildlife too.

Top Recall Training Tips

If your dog’s recall needs a little work, here are some simple yet effective techniques:

1. Use High-Value Rewards

Find out what your dog loves most - whether it’s cheese, ham, or their favourite toy - and use it as a reward when they return to you. The better the reward, the more likely they are to come back!

2. Make Recall Exciting

Use a happy, enthusiastic tone when calling your dog. Crouch down, clap, or run in the opposite direction - anything that makes coming back to you feel like a fun game!

3. Be Consistent with Your Cue

Use the same word or sound each time, whether it’s “Come!”, a whistle, or a specific recall phrase. Consistency helps reinforce the behaviour.

4. Train in a Safe Environment First

Start in a distraction-free area like your garden or an enclosed park before practicing in busier places. Build up slowly to more challenging environments.

5. Use a Long Line for Training

A long training lead (10-30 meters) allows your dog to explore while ensuring they can’t run off if they don’t respond. It’s a great way to practice recall in open spaces.

6. Don’t Chase - Encourage!

If your dog doesn’t come back straight away, don’t run after them - this can turn into a fun game for them! Instead, try moving away, calling excitedly, or offering a treat to encourage them to return.

How You Can Help Protect Wildlife in Ashdown Forest

✔️ Keep your dog on a lead or under close control in heathland areas.

✔️ Stick to marked paths, especially between March and September when birds are nesting.

✔️ Work on recall training so your dog responds even with distractions.

✔️ Follow local guidance - rangers and conservationists provide seasonal updates on wildlife protection.

✔️ Encourage other dog owners to be responsible too!

By taking these small steps, we can all help protect the precious wildlife of Ashdown Forest while still enjoying the freedom and beauty of this incredible landscape with our dogs.

Zita x

Zita Wells
Pet Patrol 365

If you found this blog post helpful, share it with your friends and family who could use these tips too! Let’s spread the love and keep our furry friends safe and happy together!