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Birdwatchers' Code of Conduct

To ensure that you enjoy watching birds without harming them or their young, please always follow this code of conduct.   

  • The welfare of the birds must come first. Disturbance to birds and their habitats should be kept to a minimum.
  • Keep to footpaths, especially during the bird breeding season. (March–August).
  • Avoid disturbing birds or keeping them away from their nests for even short periods especially in wet or cold weather.
  • Do not try to find nests. All birds, nests, eggs and young are protected by law and it is illegal to harm them.
  • Keep dogs on a short lead.
  • Leave gates and property as you find them.
  • Take your litter home with you.
Short-eared owl
Two snipe in flight
Birdwatching in the North Pennines