Police fail to prosecute single person for killing endangered birds of prey in 2016, warn RSPB

 Sarah Knapton, science editor 

1 NOVEMBER 2017 • 12:01AM

Police failed to prosecute a single person for killing endangered birds of prey last year, the RSPB has found, despite scores of deaths.

The bird conservation charity estimates that at least 81 raptors were illegally killed in 2016, but for the first time in 30 years no one was brought before the courts.

In its annual report, Birdcrime 2016, the RSPB discovered that 40 birds of prey had been shot, 22 poisoned and 25 trapped, as well as four other deaths.

However, the charity has warned that the figures are just the tip of the iceberg with many illegal killings going undetected or unreported.

Martin Harper, RSPB Conservation Director, said: “Birds of prey bring our skies to life. There is nothing like seeing a diving peregrine or a skydancing hen harrier.

“The sights of these spectacular birds are something we should all be able to enjoy, unfortunately illegal activity is stopping this and preventing the birds from flourishing. There are laws in place to protect these birds but they are clearly not being put into action.

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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.”

Continued:  http://www.thisisscunthorpe.co.uk/Agencies-working-probe-poisoning-rare-marsh/story-17392289-detail/story.html