BIRDS so reduced in numbers they are threatened with extinction on Dartmoor has prompted new advice to be issued to users of the moor.
Dartmoor National Park Authority are working in conjunction with English Nature and the RSPB to advise how to minimise disturbance to birds during the breeding season.
DNPA say birds like lapwing and curlew are are particularly threatened.
When a bird is forced to leave its nest, the eggs or newly fledged young can chill and die very quickly, or predators can move in and take eggs or nestlings.
The breeding season for moorland birds on Dartmoor coincides with the lambing season and, with spring approaching, the moorland will be full of new life.
During the bird breeding season from March 1, to July 15, visitors to the moor are asked to -
l keep to tracks and paths as much as possible.
l keep dogs on a lead.
l avoid young birds on the ground or distressed parent birds, by walking around the area.
l spread the word by telling others how they can help too.
The DNPA ask motorists to observe the 40mph speed limit on Dartmoor and remember that lambs may be on or by the roadside. The ewe may be grazing on the opposite side of the road and, if startled, a lamb could run in front of an oncoming vehicle.
A new leaflet, Dartmoor ? A Special Place for Moorland Birds, is available free of charge, from Dartmoor National Park Authority Information Centres or telephone 01822 890414.
The leaflet can also be viewed at: