Walkers are being asked not to disturb nesting sites

The RSPB says it is currently nesting season and some species who live on Dartmoor are particularly vulnerable.

The RSPB says people should avoid straying from well-worn paths and keep dogs on leads.

That way, it says, breeding birds can be left in peace and bird-watchers can enjoy any repeat visits to the moor every year.

The Golden Plover is particularly rare and like the Dunlin, the society wants to help those species which are the most vulnerable.

Dartmoor National Park Authority said: "Many factors play a part in influencing the success of breeding birds, including climate change and human disturbance. Even short-term disturbance can be fatal.

"When a bird is forced to leave its nest, the eggs or newly fledged young can chill and die very quickly, or predators can move in and take eggs or nestlings."