An RSPB nature reserve in Dorset has reported a rise in anti-social behaviour by visitors, after a kayaking family was filmed ignoring "no landing – wildlife only" signs and posing for photos in front of a camera monitoring a bird's nest. The footage, captured in July at Arne reserve, shows the family paddling in helmets and lifejackets past warning signs near breeding Oystercatchers before pulling faces at the nest cam, prompting the charity to warn that such behaviour risks disturbing wildlife and damaging the protected landscape.

The RSPB said kayakers and paddleboarders have repeatedly landed on the reserve's beach despite clear signage, while visitors have also stolen water rescue equipment, including a throw line taken for a second time, and dumped cigarette butts in bird hides. The charity flagged the smoking issue as particularly concerning given a recent red fire alert warning against exactly that behaviour. An RSPB spokesperson said most visitors respect the reserve but urged everyone to follow signs, keep a safe distance from wildlife and help protect the site for both nature and other visitors.