The Arran Wildlife Code: spread the word!
Whilst apparently common on Arran, breeding success of oyster catchers has plummeted in recent years on our most popular beaches. They are very long lived (up to 40 years), and it is likely that the population is more vulnerable than first appears.
It’s very exciting to gear up for another busy season, but there’s always a bit of trepidation too. The island becomes very busy during the spring and summer months, and while I love my job, there’s definitely a darker side to wildlife tourism that can add to the pressure on our already beleaguered wildlife. And it’s not just over enthusiastic wildlife watchers that can disturb and harm the nature we love, dog walkers, wild campers, sea kayakers and wild swimmers can all make life harder for nature. In fact any point at which we humans interact with the natural world, we are going to have an impact. Over the years I’ve noticed increasing disturbance, particularly of ground nesting birds, such as oystercatchers, ringed plovers and common gulls, as well as our iconic harbour seals, particularly where they haul out. It’s becoming a significant problem and is impacting on breeding success and numbers of animals present. .
That’s where this week’s exciting announcement and launch of the Arran Wildlife Code comes in. The Code was developed by local woman Megan Hamill, with support and input from local stakeholders, including The community of Arran Seabed Trust, the National Trust for Scotland and the Arran Natural History Society plus individuals such as myself. It aims to encourage more responsible and thoughtful interactions with nature as well as educate people on why their actions matter.
The code is not about discouraging people from getting out and enjoying our wild spaces. Spending time in nature is important for human well being and if we are going to protect our precious ecosystems here on Arran we need people to care about them- which means they need to experience the joy of nature first hand.
Scan the code to download the code!
The code is available for download online. There’s a QR code which will be visible at key locations around the island to make it really easy for people to access it when out and about.
It is hoped that by speaking directly to visitors and locals about how they can enjoy the nature of Arran without harming it, the code will not only help relieve the pressure on our wildlife, but also help people to better connect with our special habitats and species. The saying goes, “People don’t protect what they don’t care about, and they don’t care for things they don’t understand” This is what gets me up and out every day for work. To inspire and enthuse and educate, and above all, to share this wonderful island that is not only my home, but the home of some pretty cool wildlife too.