Nature reserves managed by Essex Wildlife Trust have suffered a series of shocking incidents in recent months, causing significant damage which are having a devastating impact on wildlife.
Rare birds at risk
On one coastal nature reserve, a group of individuals smashed through the fences with motorbikes and rode around the reserve right next to protected nesting sites for birds. These birds are highly sensitive Schedule 1-listed nesting birds, which means it is a criminal offence to disturb them.
This disturbance can cause adult birds to abandon their nests, leaving their eggs and newly hatched chicks doomed.
Alex Smith, Marine and Coastal Engagement Officer at Essex Wildlife Trust, says, “We can’t reverse the damage these individuals have caused. When birds abandon their chicks or nests due to disturbance, that nest is lost. With the breeding season well underway, it may be too late for those birds to try again, which is devastating. These species are red or amber-listed birds, with significant population decreases in recent years. Last year, we were able to increase nesting bird success dramatically, thanks to our incredibly hard-working staff and volunteers. So for a small number of people to be this reckless, with complete disregard for nature, is shocking.”
In Grays, an off-lead dog killed a young gosling, despite clear signs saying dogs must be on a lead and kept under close control at all times.
Police reports
On some nature reserves, a police report is being filed each week due to repeated acts of vandalism. Alongside the loss of young birds, reserves have also been targeted by:
- the destruction of gates, fences, signs and bird hides, which in some instances have been set alight;
- fly-tipping of waste and rubbish, including hazardous materials;
- graffiti artists tagging trees;
- dog fouling not bagged, or bags left in trees;
- motocross and quad bikes gaining access to reserves, including Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs);
- unofficial cycling trails created over sensitive areas such as badger setts;
- abandoned disposable BBQs, which pose a huge risk of fires, such as setting alight volunteer litter picking bags;
- theft of equipment, including life-saving buoys.
Wildlife, staff and visitors affected
Essex Wildlife Trust manages almost 100 nature reserves in Essex. These reserves are protected spaces that provide vital habitats for wildlife. They are also places where the local community can experience a multitude of benefits from being outside in nature.
The growing number of incidents are having a direct impact on both wildlife and visitors, while placing an increasing financial burden on the local conservation charity.
Financial drain
Neil Bedford, Nature Reserves Manager at Essex Wildlife Trust, says, “Each incident takes time and money to repair, diverting resources away from habitat management and conservation work. But there are also hidden costs, such as the emotional impact it has on the staff and volunteers – people who spend their time making Essex a better place for wildlife and people, only for a small group to keep undoing all their hard work.
“Most people who visit the Trust’s nature reserves respect and value these special places. We are asking the public to help us protect them. As a local charity, we rely on donations and the support of memberships, and we want to spend every penny on improving habitats, supporting wildlife, and ensuring local people can access these incredible wild spaces.”
Witnesses asked to report
Essex Wildlife Trust is urging people who witness any form of vandalism, fly tipping, illegal off-road vehicle use or suspicious behaviour on nature reserves, to report it immediately to Essex Police on 101.
The Trust is working closely with local authorities and Essex Police to investigate incidents and prevent further damage. They fear that such incidents are likely to increase during the heatwaves.
Bedford reiterates, “These reserves belong to all of us. We ask everyone to help safeguard them for future generations and to report any behaviour that threatens wildlife or damage to these special places.”
You can support your local nature reserves by becoming a member of Essex Wildlife Trust at www.essexwt.org.uk/join.
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