Protecting Ringed Plovers at Landguard Nature Reserve
Landguard Nature Reserve in Felixstowe is a place of remarkable ecological and historical importance. As a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Scheduled Monument (SM), it serves as both a vital refuge for biodiversity and a cherished cultural landmark. Among its many inhabitants is the Ringed Plover, a vulnerable ground-nesting bird that relies on this protected environment for survival.
Safeguarding Nesting Birds
To ensure the safety of these delicate birds during their breeding season, post and rope cordons are installed across key areas of the Reserve from April 1st through to September 30th. These protective measures help minimise disturbances, allowing adult birds to incubate their eggs without unnecessary stress.
Human activity—such as walking through restricted areas, dogs off-lead, and other disruptions—can cause nesting birds to abandon their eggs, increasing the risk of predation and egg cooling. Frequent disturbances may even lead to nest abandonment, significantly impacting breeding success.
Visitor Guidelines
We urge all visitors to respect these protective measures and follow conservation guidelines. To protect Landguard’s wildlife and the following activities are strictly prohibited:
🚫 Walking through cordoned-off nesting zones
🚫 Flying kites and drones
🚫 Bringing barbecues onto the reserve or lighting fires
🚫 Angling in front of the bird cordons
These activities cause unnecessary stress to wildlife and threaten fragile ecosystems.
Commitment to Conservation
The Landguard Trust is dedicated to preserving the delicate balance of nature at the Reserve. We kindly ask all visitors to:
✅ Follow visitor guidelines
✅ Keep dogs on fixed leads in designated areas
✅ Engage respectfully with conservation personnel
We will not tolerate anti-social behaviour towards staff managing the site. Aggressive or passive-aggressive conduct disrupts conservation efforts and jeopardises the wellbeing of Landguard’s wildlife.
Learn More
For further information on Landguard Nature Reserve’s conservation efforts, please contact enquiries@landguardtrust.org.uk.
Together, we can ensure Landguard remains a safe and undisturbed habitat for breeding birds and a cherished natural space for all.
