8 January 2010

Heidi Mellan, WeBS Counter Network Organiser, has issued advise to WeBS counters about disturbance to waterbirds in harsh winter conditions.

This is in advance of the next WeBS date (17th January) and it was felt best to bring the BTO article to everyones attention.

"While we know that our WeBS volunteers do their best not to disturb birds whatever the time of year, we felt you should be kept informed of the current status. Please pass this information on to your counters."

From a conservation standpoint, this advise is just as relevant to all other birdwatchers. Pete Reay, Devon WeBS count organiser and editor of the Devon Bird Report is keen to encourage everyone to exercise good judgement and caution whilst observing and counting birds in the current difficult weather conditions. "Birds are very stressed under these severe weather conditions" said Pete, "and they are often suffering from malnutrition, lack of water because the ice is making access to water difficult or impossible, as well as the cold. Disturbing birds under these circumstances can make the difference between survival or not making it through the winter, I would therefore urge all birdwatchers to please bear this in mind and act responsibly."