Spotting and Avoiding Nesting Birds
Why is this important?
Nesting birds and their nests are protected by law. Disturbing them can lead to delays in our work and, more importantly, harm wildlife. Being aware and taking precautions helps us comply with regulations and protect biodiversity.
Key Times to Be Extra Vigilant:
- Early Nesting Season: Look for birds actively carrying nesting material (twigs, leaves, feathers). This is a clear sign a nest is being built nearby, even if you can’t see it yet. Avoid the area immediately.
- Peak Season (Quiet Period): Bird activity around nests may decrease as they incubate eggs. Visual observation alone becomes less reliable.
- Direct Searches/Walkovers: Be observant during walkovers. If a bird suddenly flies off or alarm calls, a nest is likely close.
- Trust Your Gut: If a bird seems agitated by your presence, there’s probably a reason. Proceed with caution or leave the area.
- Post-Hatching: Activity increases again as adults feed chicks. You’ll likely see more birds flying to and from the nest. Be mindful and maintain a safe distance.
Spotting the Signs:
- Active Nest Building: Birds carrying materials.
- Alarm Calls: Birds making repeated, sharp calls indicating distress.
- Agitated Behaviour: Birds flying back and forth anxiously, or showing signs of wanting to return to a specific spot.
- Distraction Displays: Some birds (like mallards) may feign injury to draw you away from their nest.
- Subtle Cues: Coot and moorhen might quietly slip away from a nest but show clear intent to return.
- Direct Observation: Visually identifying a nest.
What to Do If You Suspect a Nest:
- Stop Work Immediately: Do not proceed further in the immediate vicinity.
- Observe from a Distance: Try to understand the bird’s behaviour and pinpoint the potential nest location without getting too close.
- Report Your Findings: Inform your supervisor or the relevant environmental contact. Provide as much detail as possible about the bird’s behaviour and the location.
- Do Not Approach or Disturb: Leave the area undisturbed until you receive further guidance.
Special Considerations: Schedule 1 Birds
Certain rare and vulnerable species (e.g., kingfisher, barn owl) have extra legal protection against disturbance. If you suspect a Schedule 1 species is nesting in the area, always consult FBG for specific advice before taking any further action.
Think About Unexpected Nesting Locations:
Birds can nest in various places:
- Ground Nests: Short or dense grassland.
- River Shingle: Loose stones and pebbles near water.
- Equipment/Vehicles: Especially if they have been stationary for a while.
If in Doubt, Seek Advice:
If you are unsure about a situation or require a more detailed survey, contact your manager for support and guidance on ecological contractors.
Team discussion questions
- What are some common nesting locations you might encounter on our sites?
- How long would you typically spend observing an area for signs of nesting birds before starting work?
- What are the key steps to take if you unexpectedly find a potential nest during work?