What do you love about Devon's beaches? Is it walking barefoot across the sand...exploring a rockpool...riding a perfect wave?
Everyone loves Devon's beaches, but this summer a leading charity is asking us to
spread that love to include the very special wildlife which we share our coastline
with.
This summer Devon Wildlife Trust is asking all beach goers to spare a thought for
our marine wildlife. From forests of seaweed, through rockpools covered in anemones
and limpets, to brightly coloured birds such as oystercatchers - our marine wildlife
is wonderful. Without them a day at the beach wouldn't be complete
Now beach goers are being asked to play their part in protecting marine wildlife by
following a simple 6-step 'Seashore Code'. The code which is illustrated by some fun
cartoon characters calls on people to:
1) Handle seashore creatures with care - especially soft-bodied creatures such as
anemones
2) Don't make creatures homeless - make sure shells are empty before taking them home
3) Don't leave litter - our rubbish is one of the biggest killers of marine wildlife
4) Put rockpool creatures back where you found them
5) Watch where you walk - be careful not to crush or dislodge animals such as limpets
6) Finally, look after yourself - be aware of incoming tides, especially when you
are rockpooling
Devon Wildlife Trust's Steve Hussey said: 'We want everyone- young and old - to
explore the wonderful wildlife we have around Devon's coastlines. But that wildlife
needs a bit of tender loving care. Follow our 'Seashore Code' and you'll be doing
your bit for marine nature. Devon has some very special wildlife - let's keep it
that way.'
The Seashore Code marks the beginning of National Marine Week 2012 (Saturday 28 July
- Sunday 12 August). Join Devon Wildlife Trust for a range of fun seaside events at
Wembury Marine Centre, near Plymouth. DWT's work for marine wildlife is part of a
wider campaign for better protection of the UK's marine environments. Anyone who
loves the beach is being asked to take part in this campaign by visiting
www.devonwildlifetrust.org