RSPB blames partners for 'failed' bird-of-prey project

27 January 2018

Bird conservation charity the RSPB has quit a "failed" project to protect birds of prey in a national park.

Peak District Bird of Prey Initiative began in 2011 to boost the numbers of birds - known as raptors - in the area.

But the charity said some species numbers had actually fallen and that illegal killing of such birds had not been tackled effectively.

The Moorland Association and the Peak District National Park Authority said they were disappointed at the move.

The initiative, which also includes the National Trust and Natural England, set five-year targets for healthy populations of three species - merlin, peregrine and short-eared owl - and later included hen harrier and goshawk.

Continued