The Model Boating Pond in Hampstead Heath is meant to be closed to the public

• MY heart sank reading the letter about people ignoring notices asking them to keep off the model boating pool island so that it can be a refuge for birds, (Island is out of bounds, June 17).

It is no surprise to me that our wildlife and what remains of the wilderness areas of the world are in steep decline.

The human animal has an incessant need to explore everywhere, nothing it seems can be left untouched. Unfortunately it is a part of being human, explore then destroy.

The decision of the Hampstead Heath management to keep the small island as a safe haven for wildlife is admirable, but for how long?

DAVID DUNCAN
Barker Drive, NW1