Guernsey Press

Take care on Lihou plea as birds expand nesting areas

AN ABSENCE of visitors as a result of lockdown has meant internationally important bird species have expanded their nesting areas at Lihou, putting them at risk as visitors return.

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Lihou Island warden Steve Sarre. (Picture by Adrian Miller, 28323302)

Many have been able to build their nests much closer to the footpaths than usual and some are only a few feet away.

If disturbed too regularly, birds may abandon their nests, and with it any eggs or chicks they may have.

Well camouflaged nests are also at risk of being trodden on accidentally.

Some species of song bird nest in the grassland on Lihou Island and would be almost impossible to spot underfoot.

Agriculture, Countryside & Land Management Services, together with La Societe Guernesiaise, RSPB Guernsey, the Biodiversity Partnership and the Lihou Charitable Trust, are asking the public to take extra care when visiting the island.

‘This is my favourite time to come across to Lihou with all of the new flowers, butterflies and the nesting sea birds,’ said Steve Sarre, warden for the Lihou Charitable Trust.

‘It is stunning and if you take your time and don’t rush you will get to see a lot more of the wildlife around you.

‘We all need to ensure that we are respectful to the nesting birds and stick to the paths. Just remember that we are the visitors, not the birds, as this is their home.’

Jamie Hooper, the conservation officer for La Societe Guernesiaise, said: ‘Lihou Island provides a unique opportunity to watch nesting gulls at very close range. This gives a great insight into our locally important wildlife.

‘It is important to remember, however, that these are wild birds which are vulnerable to human disturbance and interference so we would ask everyone to keep their distance and remember that the welfare of the birds, their eggs and their chicks must always come first.’

Dogs are not allowed on Lihou or the causeway.