Nature conservation authority promotes consideration for wild animals and sensitive habitats
The district's lower nature conservation authority is appealing to dog owners to comply with the applicable leash law in nature reserves. The aim is to protect wild animals as well as sensitive plants and habitats from disturbance.
Especially during the spring and summer months, the breeding and nesting season, many animal species depend on undisturbed retreats. Even the approach of a free-roaming dog can cause parent animals to abandon their nests or young. For wild animals, dogs represent potential predators, causing stress and, in the worst case, endangering their offspring.
Protection for animals and plants
Ground-nesting birds, waterfowl, and young animals are particularly sensitive to disturbance. Many young animals hide in tall grass or dense vegetation and are only cared for by their parents intermittently. If they are disturbed or pursued, their chances of survival decrease significantly.
Rare plants and valuable habitats can also be damaged when dogs stray from designated paths. Therefore, the leash requirement serves not only to protect wildlife but also to preserve sensitive natural areas.
Stay on the paths
According to the nature conservation authority, walkers with dogs on leashes generally cause only minor disturbances on designated paths. Many wild animals have adapted to the regular flow of people. The situation is different in meadows, fields, or undergrowth, where animals expect undisturbed retreats.
The authorities therefore ask that people stay on the paths, keep dogs on a leash, and respect nature. This will ensure a harmonious coexistence between recreational users and wildlife.
Information is also available outside of nature reserves
Outside of nature reserves, there is generally no general leash law in Hesse. However, municipalities can enact additional regulations, particularly during the breeding and nesting season. Different rules may also apply in protected landscapes or municipal green spaces. Dog owners should therefore check the applicable regulations locally.
(DISTRICT OF GROSS-GERAU – RED/PSKGG)
