The RSPB asks us to watch our step in the Sussex countryside this weekend
Many rare bird species nest on the ground rather than in trees
We're being asked to watch where we're stepping if out and about in the Sussex countryside this weekend, as nesting season gets underway for many bird species.
In Sussex, rare birds like woodlark and nightjar nest on heathland sites, which are often popular places to walk, cycle, horse ride and picnic too.
To protect themselves from predators, birds that nest on the ground are often extremely well camouflaged.
Sara Humphrey from the charity said: “If you ask a child where bird’s nest, they are likely say a tree, hedge or nest box. It’s an image we’ve all grown up with but for some of our most threatened species it’s simply not true. Almost every natural habitat in the English countryside can be home to ground nesting birds and these threatened species are under increasing pressure due habitat loss, predators and climate change. Yet we can all help protect them from disturbance by simply following the Countryside Code and keeping to footpaths.”
Mike Shurmer, Head of Species for RSPB England said: “A skylark egg can be as small as 17mm, that’s around the width of a 5p piece. And when those eggs hatch, chicks can be just as well camouflaged and vulnerable. When scared, a chick’s instinct is often to stay quiet and avoid detection, so if you see an adult bird calling out in distress or trying to catch your attention, back away carefully to help protect nests from harm.”