The call comes as several lambs were recently attacked at Dropping Well Farm nature reserve, near Bewdley. The attacks, which took place on Trust-owned fields with no public access, weren’t witnessed. The lambs were found by the farmer who later reported the incidents to the police.

Rob Allen, reserves team leader for Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, commented “Sadly, this isn’t the first instance of dogs attacking livestock on our nature reserves.

“From birds nesting in spring and summer to small mammals seeking shelter in winter, there are plenty of species on our heathland reserves that reside at ground-level and are vulnerable to disturbance. To protect wildlife and to keep grazing livestock safe, we ask that any visitors to our nature reserves stick to the designated paths and keep their dogs on a lead.”

Sheep, cattle and horses are used to graze many of the Trust’s nature reserves during autumn and winter. Grazing helps to control fast-growing grasses, which allows delicate wildflowers to thrive.

The Trust does not own the livestock but works with local farmers to ensure that this traditional form of management continues.

Rob added “As well as helping to protect wildlife and livestock by keeping dogs on leads, it is worth all dog owners remembering that it is illegal for a dog to worry sheep and that a person can be found guilty of their dog worrying without their dog having had physical contact with the animals.”