UK Wildlife

Countryside Code and Wildlife Welfare

The Countryside Code provides guidance for responsible access to the natural environment, with important implications for wildlife welfare through reduced disturbance and appropriate dog management.

Key Facts

The updated Countryside Code includes specific guidance on dog management around wildlife
Dogs off leads disturb ground-nesting birds, flushing adults from nests and chilling eggs
Horses flushed by dogs during riding can cause accidents injuring horses and riders
Lambing sheep can be killed or aborted through dog disturbance even without direct contact
Respecting wildlife during breeding season is both legal and ethical responsibility

Welfare Considerations

Countryside access and wildlife welfare are compatible when the Countryside Code is followed. Dog management is the most important individual behaviour for wildlife welfare in the countryside. Keeping dogs on leads during March-August around ground-nesting habitat is a simple welfare action.

What You Can Do

Keep dogs on leads in areas with livestock, ground-nesting birds, or wildlife during breeding season
Follow the Countryside Code and educate others about its wildlife welfare importance
Join walking groups that model responsible behaviour around wildlife