Dog walkers have been urged to keep their pets on leads when asked to as part of a bid to protect birds nesting on Norfolk's beaches. 

The RSPB also wants people to steer clear of fenced-off areas and follow directions on signs in an effort to protect birds such as little terns, ringed plovers and oystercatchers, which are settling down on eggs. 

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Oystercatchers on the beachOystercatchers on the beach (Image: Ben Andrew/ RSPB)

Phil Pearson, RSPB senior conservation officer, said: “Little terns and ringed plovers are some of our most treasured species, and part of what makes the Norfolk coast so special.

"We’re doing everything we can to protect them, but we also need the help of the community to make sure we succeed."

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The RSPB has joined forces with a number of other groups including Norfolk Wildlife Trust, National Trust, Holkham Estate, Wild Ken Hill, Natural England and the Norfolk Coast Partnership to help make this a successful year for beach-nesting birds.

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Great Yarmouth Mercury: Jake Fiennes, head of conservation at the Holkham estateJake Fiennes, head of conservation at the Holkham estate (Image: Denise Bradley)

Last year at least 650 chicks successfully fledged from Winterton beach – the highest number ever recorded at the site.

Ringed plovers in west Norfolk also had a great season in 2022.

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Jake Fiennes, general manager for conservation at Holkham Estate, said: “The next few weeks will be fundamentally important for our breeding shore birds and we urge all of you who are wishing to make the most of the better weather on the coast to be aware of the breeding bird.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: A ringed plover on the beachA ringed plover on the beach (Image: Andy Hay RSPB)

"Follow the signage, be aware of areas that have been fenced off to give the birds space to breed and keep your dogs close at hand or on leads in sensitive areas.

"We thank you for your assistance in ensuring we give the natural world a chance to breed.”

Staff and volunteers have been working to protect their nesting and roosting sites, and there are still opportunities to get involved, visit www.rspb.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering-fundraising/volunteer to find out more.