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Coastal birds of east Dorset 1990

Abstract

This report summarises the results of a survey, carried out between October 1989 and July 1990, to locate important areas for breeding and visiting seabirds, waterfowl and shorebirds in east Dorset and western-most Hampshire.

The survey was undertaken by the Nature Conservancy Council (NCC) on behalf of British Petroleum Development Limited (BP) prior to their proposed development of oil reserves under Poole Bay. Special emphasis was placed on those species of bird vulnerable to oil pollution or to oil-related developments. The offshore waters of Poole and Christchurch Bays received particular attention in the winter months. A literature review provided much valuable additional information on the birds of Poole and Christchurch Harbours. The study area holds internationally important populations of black-tailed godwit and shelduck m winter. Twelve further species of wildfowl and wader are present in nationally important numbers in Poole Harbour. Nationally important numbers of black-necked grebe, cormorant and red-breasted merganser use areas outside Poole Harbour. These are all particularly vulnerable to oil pollution.

A series of recommendations are given to help protect those bird species that may be at risk from any future developments by BP. From an ornithological point of view, the most important areas to protect are: Dur!ston Head and Ballard Down (breeding seabirds in summer), Studland Bay (wintering waterfowl), Poole Harbour (breeding or visiting waders, waterfowl and seabirds throughout the year), Hook Sand (feeding seabirds in summer) and Christchurch Harbour (moulting swans in summer and autumn).

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Resource type Publication

Topic category Environment

Reference date 1990··

Citation
Aspinall, S.J. & Tasker, M.L. (1990) Coastal birds of east Dorset. JNCC, Peterborough, ISBN 0 86139 684 7.

Lineage
This report summarises the results of a seabird survey in East Dorset, carried out by the Nature Conservancy Council's Seabirds at Sea Team, between October 1989 and July 1990.

Responsible organisation
Communications, JNCC publisher

Limitations on public access No limitations

Use constraints Available under the Open Government Licence 3.0

Metadata date 2026·05·20

Metadata point of contact
Communications, JNCC

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