Visitors to Selsley Common are being reminded to help protect one of its most treasured residents, the Skylark, as nesting season begins.
From 1 March to 31 July, it’s skylark nesting season – and keeping dogs on a short lead is not just thoughtful, it’s a legal requirement on open access land.
Ground‑nesting birds like skylarks lay their eggs directly in the grass, making them especially vulnerable to disturbance from walkers and dogs. Even well‑meaning walkers or dogs simply exploring the area can accidentally scare birds off their nests or disrupt chicks. By keeping dogs on a short lead (no longer than two metres) and sticking to the well‑marked footpaths, visitors can make a real difference to the success of this year’s nesting season.
Cllr Martin Pearcy, chair of Stroud District Council’s Environment Committee said: “We’re lucky to have such a special place on our doorstep, and the sound of skylarks singing overhead is part of what makes Selsley Common so magical. A few small actions from all of us – staying on marked paths and keeping dogs on short leads – go a long way to helping these threatened birds raise their chicks safely.”
Skylarks are classified as ‘red’ on the British Birds of Conservation Concern list, which means their population is in steep decline. The UK population halved in the 1990s and continues to fall. Selsley Common is one of the few places locally where their unmistakable song can still be heard throughout spring and early summer.
A special place worth protecting
Selsley Common is part of the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and includes a nationally important Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Its rare, unimproved limestone grassland supports wildflowers like rock rose, wild thyme, birds’ foot trefoil and several species of orchid. This rich, open grassland creates the perfect nesting habitat for skylarks and other ground‑nesting birds such as meadow pipits.
The Cotswold Way runs across the common, offering sweeping views over the River Severn and the Malvern Hills. Visitors can also explore The Toots, a Bronze Age long barrow, and discover ancient fossils within the limestone beneath their feet.
SDC Strategic Lead for Nature Recovery and Biodiversity, Rebecca Charley, said: “Everyone who uses the common has a part to play in keeping it thriving. When people stick to paths, keep dogs on short leads and clean up after them, it helps protect this delicate ecosystem. We really appreciate the community working with us to look after such a precious place.”
Simple ways to help wildlife thrive
People walking on the common can help protect both wildlife and the landscape by: keeping dogs on a short lead from 1 March to 31 July staying on the designated footpaths. Cleaning up after their dogs and using the waste bins at car parks or by the roadside taking litter home and avoiding fires and barbecues, which are not permitted – driving slowly and keeping dogs under close control once cattle begin grazing from mid‑May. These small actions have a big impact. When visitors follow them, they help ensure that Selsley Common continues to be a welcoming space for people, dogs, wildlife and future generations.
Unlimited fines for dog attacks on farm animals
Dog owners should be aware that from 18 March 2026, new legislation under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025 significantly strengthens controls on dogs in the countryside. While designed primarily to protect farm animals, the updated law also highlights the importance of responsible dog ownership on public access land such as Selsley Common.
Between 1 March and 31 July, dogs must be kept on a lead no longer than two metres on open access land, even where no livestock are present.
The law also introduces tougher penalties for irresponsible behaviour, including unlimited fines and stronger enforcement powers.
Selsley Common is managed by Stroud District Council. Minchinhampton and Rodborough Commons are owned and managed by The National Trust.
