Britain’s protected birds of prey still being shot, trapped and poisoned, says RSPB
Britain’s Protected Birds of Prey Still Being Shot, Trapped, and Poisoned, Says RSPB
A shocking report released by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) has revealed that Britain’s protected birds of prey continue to be subjected to horrific attacks, with more than half of these incidents occurring on or near land managed for game shooting. The charity’s findings have sparked widespread outrage and renewed calls for stronger action to protect these majestic creatures.
According to the RSPB, a total of 137 incidents of bird of prey persecution were reported in 2020, resulting in the death or injury of 161 birds. The most common victims were buzzards, red kites, and peregrine falcons, all of which are protected under UK law. The methods used to kill and maim these birds included shooting, trapping, and poisoning, with the latter being a particularly insidious and indiscriminate tactic.
The RSPB’s investigation found that 57% of these attacks took place on or near land managed for game shooting, such as grouse moors and pheasant shoots. This has led to accusations that some game shooting estates are failing to take adequate steps to prevent bird of prey persecution and, in some cases, may even be actively encouraging it. The charity is calling on the UK government to take tougher action to regulate the game shooting industry and to hold perpetrators of bird of prey persecution accountable.
The RSPB’s Director of Conservation, Martin Harper, expressed his dismay and frustration at the continued killing of protected birds of prey, stating, “It’s unacceptable that birds of prey continue to be shot, trapped, and poisoned in the UK. These birds are an integral part of our natural heritage, and it’s our responsibility to protect them.” Harper emphasized that the RSPB is working closely with law enforcement agencies and other conservation organizations to bring perpetrators to justice and to prevent future attacks.
The UK government has faced criticism for its handling of bird of prey persecution, with some arguing that current laws and regulations are inadequate and poorly enforced. In response to the RSPB’s report, a spokesperson for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) acknowledged the need for stronger action, stating, “We take the persecution of birds of prey very seriously and are committed to protecting these magnificent creatures. We will continue to work with conservation groups and law enforcement agencies to prevent these crimes and to bring those responsible to justice.”
As the RSPB’s report highlights the ongoing struggle to protect Britain’s birds of prey, it is clear that more needs to be done to prevent these heinous attacks and to hold perpetrators accountable. The charity’s findings serve as a stark reminder of the importance of conservation efforts and the need for continued vigilance in protecting our natural heritage. With the UK government facing increasing pressure to take tougher action, it remains to be seen whether the necessary steps will be taken to safeguard the future of these incredible birds.
