VISITORS taking their dogs to nature reserve between Holywell Bay and Perranporth are being urged to act responsibly.

Cornwall Wildlife Trust states an influx of dog waste being left behind at Penhale Dunes and dogs being allowed off leads has been causing issues.

Reserve officers are concerned that the rising levels of dog waste could lead to toxic conditions and upset the delicate balance of soil microorganisms, hindering plant growth and survival. The dunes are home to several unique and sensitive plant species, including rare plants and lichens like petal wort and scrambled egg lichen.

The plants are highly vulnerable to environmental disturbance. The trusts says even small amounts of dog waste can be harmful, as it contains bacteria, parasites, and excess nutrients that disrupt soil chemistry.

Insecticides found in flea treatments and wormers are also excreted in dog waste, likely to cause harm to pollinators.

Increasing numbers of dog owners are also allowing their pets off leads in areas where sensitive wildlife have made their homes.

This has disturbed wildlife, including ground-nesting birds, which has threatened their survival.

Penhale Dunes is home to ground-nesting birds such as skylarks, which lay their eggs among the long grass. Uncontrolled dogs can disturb these birds causing significant stress and often forcing them to flee their nests and abandon their chicks who may then die from starvation.

Many children visit and use the Penhale Dunes reserve during the summer holidays. Dog waste can spread toxocariasis, an infection caused by small worms found in the faeces of some dogs, which can cause serious health issues.

The trust says bagging dog waste and binning it is important for the safety of both wildlife and people.

Penhale assistant officer Hannah Barnikel made a plea for responsible pet ownership when visiting the nature reserve

She said: “We love dogs, but we love wildlife too.

“Dog poo doesn’t just look and smell unpleasant it spreads harmful diseases and damages delicate ecosystems.

“One small act, like picking up after your dog, makes a huge difference to our environment and to the sensitive flora and fauna found here in Cornwall.

“Dog owners are encouraged to follow our key principles when visiting this beautiful natural site.

“People should keep their dog in sight and under control. They should always keep their dog within sight and under control. Where signposted, please use a lead.

“People should clean up after their dog. If bins aren’t available, then please take the waste home.

“Use a lead around livestock and nesting birds. “In areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds especially from March to July people should keep their dog on a short lead at all times.

“Practice reliable recall. A dog should respond to basic recall commands. If not, please keep them on a lead for the duration of your walk.

“People should stay on designated paths. They should stick to marked trails to help protect delicate flora and fauna.

“People visiting Penhale Dunes should also respect others “Be mindful of other visitors and their dogs.”