Dogs on Dartmoor now have to be on short leads to protect nesting birds and other animals, park bosses say.
The protection period will last from now until July 31, the Dartmoor National Park Authority said.
Dartmoor rangers were out advising dog walkers, while handing out treats, leads and poo bags, they said.
Their advice includes how important it is to protect birds, as well as sheep, foals and calves.
The initiative is organized by Dartmoor National Park Authority, The National Trust and Dartmoor Livestock Protection Society.
Ella Briens, deputy head ranger, said: “The engagement weekend is an important way for us to highlight the breeding season and explain that this is a particularly vulnerable time for wildlife. of Dartmoor.
“We found that most people were incredibly positive but were surprised to find that some people didn’t think the rules applied to them.”
The park authority said birds such as the meadow pipit and skylark build nests on the ground to incubate eggs while lambs, foals and calves take their first steps.
Dogs can scare adult birds from their nests, while the animal can also cause “disturbance” in grazing animals and their young.
Dog owners are also advised to stick to the trails and pick up litter to take home.
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