New brand launched to help Suffolk Coast get Wildlife Wise

Wildlife Wise, the new brand for the Suffolk Coast Recreational Disturbance and Mitigation Strategy (RAMS), was launched during a recent tour of some of the Suffolk Coast’s most important and sensitive habitats and wildlife areas.

This is a collaborative project between Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils, East Suffolk Council and Ipswich Borough Council to help reduce the impacts of outdoor activities on these designated sites.

The Suffolk Coast’s special habitats and wildlife make it an incredible place for local residents and visitors and also has several international-level designations which reflect its beauty and importance.

These designations include Special Protection Areas (SPA) designated for the area’s rare birds, Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) designated for rare habitats, plants and invertebrates, and also Ramsar Sites which are wetlands of international importance. 

Wildlife Wise is encouraging people to enjoy nature and share these spaces with wildlife by followings some simple steps:

• keep you and your dog on the path. Many birds nest on the ground in the areas around estuaries, beaches, heathlands and grasslands. The birds will often be well camouflaged, and both you and your dog can easily scare adult birds away from their nests or you could step on chicks without realising
• avoid walking on plants on beaches
• do not allow your dog to chase wildlife or farm animals
• always clean up after your dog – dog mess can damage habitats and can cause disease
• follow any signs which are there to protect you, your dog and wildlife, or to allow land management, nature conservation or farming work to be carried out easily and safely

Wildlife Wise aims to prevent additional recreational pressure on these important coast and heathland sites. As part of the project, engagement and educational activities will be developed to work with communities and visitors to the sites. The first two Wildlife Wise rangers will be out visiting these wildlife sites and speaking with people within the next few months. 

Cllr Andrew Stringer, cabinet member for heritage, planning and infrastructure for Mid Suffolk District Council, said:

“We enjoy the benefits of having Suffolk’s beautiful coast on our doorstep and want to encourage people to continue to visit, but we must also do everything we can to protect wildlife and habitats. This partnership helps that goal, and we look forward continuing this collaborative approach.”

Simon Amstutz, from Suffolk & Essex Coast & Heaths National Landscape, said:

“It is great to see the superb new branding and the scheme will be an incredible boost to help everyone to enjoy the outstanding coast while ensuring wildlife can thrive.”