Bird Aware Solent
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Wildlife aware watersports

A group of people paddleboarding on a river with the bank in the background

Nature‑friendly paddle and wind sports

By taking a few simple steps, we can help nature thrive.

When we enjoy the Solent, we share it with thousands of coastal birds that need the shore, mud, marsh and open water to rest and feed. Small changes in how we move, launch and behave on the water can make a big difference.

Start with the Bird Aware Solent Coastal Code

  • Look out for birds
  • Move further away if they become alert
  • Follow requests on signs.

These three steps help birds stay calm, save energy and stay safe.

How to stay wildlife‑aware on the water

Icon illustrating established launching points for watersports

Use established launch points

Using proper launch and landing spots protects sensitive habitats and reduces disturbance to birds.

  • Rig and store your kit at the top of the beach. Mud, marsh and the water’s edge are feeding areas for birds, while shingle beaches are their resting and nesting areas.
  • Carry or float your equipment in and out. Dragging boards, kayaks or sails damages habitats and can harm your craft too.
Icon illustrating main water routes - a stream

Stick to main channels

Main channels are used more regularly, so wildlife is less likely to be disturbed there.

  • Avoid narrow creeks and quiet corners. Birds use these peaceful places to feed and rest.
  • Keep a steady pace. Moving smoothly helps birds feel less threatened.
Icon illustrating nature - a sleeping bird

Give nature space

Our coastline and its inlets are important for wildlife.

  • Don’t land on islands, spits, marshes, lagoons or mudflats. Birds rely on these places, and human presence can stop them using them altogether.
  • Watch for signs of disturbance. If birds stop feeding, look towards you, or start moving away, you’re too close. Gently move away at a steady, quiet pace.
Icon illustrating low noise - a speaker with a line through it

Keep noise low

Loud noises can scare birds and make them waste energy.

  • Keep voices down and avoid sudden movements.
  • Secure loose kit so it doesn’t flap or bang in the wind.

Paddleboarders

  • Keep a low profile near wildlife. Drop to your knees to look smaller and less threatening.
  • Use slow, smooth strokes to reduce splashing

Kayakers and canoeists

  • Use a low paddle angle near wildlife. This keeps movement calmer and less noticeable.
  • Glide when you can to reduce noise.

Kitesurfers and windsurfers

  • Stay at least a kite‑line length away from marshes, lagoons, mudflats and islands.
  • Remember that flapping kit can look like a predator to birds, so give them extra space.

Wildlife needs protection all year

Disturbance isn’t just a problem in spring and summer during nesting season. In winter, waders, ducks and geese arrive tired and hungry from long migrations. They need quiet places to feed and rest so they can survive the colder months. Giving them space helps them thrive.

Want to help even more?

If you work in the watersports industry and would like to get involved in our mission for wildlife‑aware watersports, email us at info@birdaware.org.

Explore our our interactive watersports map.