As regular CFZ-watchers will know, for some time Corinna has been doing a column for Animals & Men and a regular segment on On The Track... particularly about out-of-place birds and rare vagrants. There seem to be more and more bird stories from all over the world hitting the news these days so, to make room for them all - and to give them all equal and worthy coverage - she has set up this new blog to cover all things feathery and Fortean.

Saturday 24 November 2012

Agencies working together to probe poisoning of rare marsh harrier near River Humber at Goxhill


Police today revealed that a joint investigation has been launched following the death of a rare bird of prey near the the River Humber and Goxhill.

The dead marsh harrier, which had taken poison, was discovered on top of a large bush on May 27 by a local birdwatcher who was monitoring a breeding pair of marsh harriers in the area.

The position of the dead bird aroused his suspicion as its spread wings suggested it had fallen from the sky.

Humberside Police, the RSPB and Natural England have been working together to investigate the incident.

Sergeant Howard Garlick from Brigg Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "This is one of the more unusual incidents that police are called to investigate. Whilst it is not one of our regular priorities, all reasonable steps will be taken to investigate this matter and prevent further loss of these rare birds."

Mark Thomas, RSPB Senior Investigations Officer said: “This is another appalling example of the crimes which continue to be committed against birds of prey.

“Poisoning is a particularly insidious method of persecution both because it causes the bird great suffering and also because it is so indiscriminate.”

Tony Bird, Lead Wildlife Adviser at Natural England said: “All birds of prey are fully protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Offences carry a maximum fine of £5,000 and/or a term of six months imprisonment.”


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