More needs to be done to protect Vazon’s wildlife

I had mostly been used to seeing turnstones within and around rocky areas; assuming from my observations this to be their preference. However, almost one year ago, last October 23, I was excited to see a large family of 50 or so turnstones hurriedly feeding on the shoreline. I had been happily observing them for less than a minute, when I heard loud continuous barking. Looking around, I caught sight of a fast moving, small to medium-sized black dog, already half-way down the beach, sending numerous crows scattering into swirling, chaotic flight; owner/walker of dog at this time still descending what I refer to as the Gele steps (opposite Waves and south a bit). The turnstones, as yet unaffected by this invasion, continued their determined focus on feeding, with same sense of rapid urgency.

Dog handler, eventually catching up with his responsibility, continued walking, then with back turned called the animal, with casual expectation it would follow. Dog however had other ideas. Obeying instructions clearly not anywhere near as much fun as chasing sea birds, it locked its attention on the turnstones. Canine bounding towards them, the birds immediately took flight, putting down some 30 metres or so away, and continued their urgent search for food, only to have the dog see this and recommence its disruptive pursuit. This process repeated yet again, before the birds flew off entirely. Sadly, I didn’t see them after that.

Given the high importance of wildlife and the persistent long-standing negative effects of dogs on the region, what is being done to support and enhance this valuable natural space? And when can the public, most of whom do not own a dog, expect meaningful action to enforce, and more importantly prevent, the year-round occurrence of wildlife disturbances?

This and other issues have gone on long enough. Urgent, meaningful action is necessary to protect the whole of Vazon Bay, by removing easily prevented canine disruptions. Vazon wildlife should not be squeezed out of the space it used to enjoy, be allowed to re-establish to previous natural levels, and simultaneously provide local people and visitors with at least one safe, clean, natural space to visit.

Vazon.protect@gmail.com