New Forest: Car parks close to protect ground-nesting birds

The organisation, which is taking part in a UK campaign to ensure the survival of species such as lapwing, nightjar, and curlew, says the car parks are likely to stay shut until late August.

The closures aim to create special quiet zones in breeding locations across the district.

Forestry England bosses hope their attempt to limit activity will reduce the likelihood of people startling adult birds, causing them to abandon their nests and thus expose chicks to predators.

Forestry England has closed nine New Forest car parks and created no-go areas for walkers in a bid to protect ground-nesting birds (Image: David Levy)

The New Forest is a Special Protection Area for Birds and a critical breeding location for endangered ground-nesting species.

People entering the quiet zones should stay on the main tracks and avoid areas of open heathland where birds may be nesting.

Orange signs indicate areas near breeding grounds. Red 'stop' signs highlight the presence of nesting sites in the immediate vicinity and urge people to take another route.

People walking their dogs are being urged to keep them on the lead "if necessary" to ensure they remain under close control.

Forestry England has closed nine New Forest car parks and created no-go areas for walkers in a bid to protect ground-nesting birds (Image: Andy Hale)

Forestry England ecologist Leanne Sargeant said: "Anyone visiting the New Forest during spring can’t help but notice the huge amount of bird song and activity.

"This is a special place in the UK for birds, and making sure we continue to see ground nesting birds here in good numbers is key to this continuing.

"Everyone spending time here has a role to play and it’s really simple to help. Please stay on the main, gravel tracks and avoid the heathlands and woodland edges to give these birds the space they need."

Steve Avery, executive director at the New Forest National Park Authority, said the area was home to rare birds whose survival was under threat.

Forestry England has closed nine New Forest car parks and created no-go areas for walkers in a bid to protect ground-nesting birds (Image: David Hill)

He added: "We can all help by checking routes before heading out in the Forest, knowing which car parks are closed and where the quiet breeding zones are so we can avoid them.

"Always stay on the way-marked cycle routes and avoid open areas and heathlands where birds will be nesting and looking after precious young."

Heather Gould, chairman of New Forest Dog Owners Group, said: "It’s really simple for everyone who spends time here to help protect ground nesting birds by obeying the signs which are put out and avoiding sensitive areas altogether."

Horse riders are being urged to play their part by sticking to the main tracks.