Watersports-with-wildlife map extended to entire Solent coastline
June 2025
Bird Aware Solent has expanded its online watersports map to cover the entire Solent coastline including the north coast of the Isle of Wight.
The map now stretches more than 150 miles from Milford on Sea in Hampshire to West Wittering in West Sussex, as well as from Colwell Bay to Bembridge on the Isle of Wight.
The map helps watersports enthusiasts stay wildlife-aware while enjoying the coast and is designed for paddle sports and wind sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and kite surfing. These activities bring people closer to nature but can disturb birds, seals, and fragile habitats.
Bird Aware Ranger Rich Ainger said: “By extending the map to the north coast of the Isle of Wight, it’s now an important tool when heading out on the water wherever you are on the Solent. We’re delighted to offer clear, practical guidance to help people enjoy their time on the coast while protecting the incredible wildlife that lives here.”
With the growing popularity of wind and paddle sports, Bird Aware Solent’s map provides essential guidance to help users stay wildlife-aware on the water.
The Solent coastline is one of the UK’s busiest areas for water-based recreation, but it’s also one of the most important sites for nature throughout the year.
The newly extended map highlights wildlife-sensitive areas and recommends launch points for paddle sports, windsurfers, and kite surfers, helping users make informed choices that minimise disturbance.
Rich Ainger and his colleagues at Bird Aware are also working closely with watersports organisations to help their clients learn more about the incredible wildlife along the Solent. Their goal is to ensure that paddle and wind sports can coexist positively alongside nature.
Anyone involved in watersports training, equipment hire, or at activity centres who would like to learn more about this project—or explore ways to collaborate—is encouraged to get in touch with Bird Aware.
Alongside the map, Bird Aware Solent offers practical tips for reducing wildlife impact:
- Look out for birds and wildlife—move away if they become alert to your presence.
- Avoid islands, spits, marshes, and mudflats—these are vital roosting and breeding sites.
- Keep a low profile—kayakers can lower their paddle angle; paddleboarders can kneel.
- Use recommended launch points—carry or float equipment to avoid dragging over habitats.
- Steer clear of small creeks—they’re safe havens for birds.
- Respect signage and marker buoys—they indicate sensitive areas.
The map has been developed in collaboration with watersports organisations, conservation groups, Natural England, along with local and harbour authorities. Since its initial launch two years ago, it has attracted thousands of visits to the Bird Aware website.
