a million LEGAL EAGLE voices for THE RSPB ‘S INVESTIGATIONS NEWSLETTER nature FEBRUARY 2008 No 54

Golden eagle poisoning stirs Scottish Government into action

Lothian and Borders WCO Mark Rafferty holds the poisoned golden eagle which led to a political debate RSPB

The shocking news that a golden eagle had been found successfully, unmolested, for many years. In 2007, the pair poisoned in the Scottish Borders in August 2007, just after raised a chick to fledging; the young bird was semi- the start of the grouse shooting season, not only stunned independent and was being fed by both parents at the time those involved with conservation, but also was condemned of the crime. There were significant concerns for the chick’s around the world and led to a debate about wildlife crime welfare so a food supply was organised by WCO Mark in the Scottish Parliament. As a result, a Thematic Rafferty to ensure the young bird continued to thrive. Inspection of arrangements for the prevention, investigation Lothian and Borders Police, RSPB Scotland, the Scottish and prosecution of wildlife crime is being undertaken by Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary in association with HM and the Scottish Executive conducted a search of land and Chief Inspector of Prosecutions in Scotland. The Inspection property and a reward of up to £10,000 was being offered will make recommendations by 31 March 2008. by private donors, RSPB and wildlife organisations for information to enable the perpetrator to be caught. The poisoning caught the public imagination because the dead bird was a member of the only breeding pair of PC Mark Rafferty said, ‘Despite the efforts of myself, other golden eagles in the Scottish Borders, having nested WCOs and our partners, the illegal and indiscriminate use Continued overleaf

IN THIS ISSUE: Bird ‘Black Hole of ‘Calcutta’ • Developer prosecuted for destroying bat roost Taxidermy dealer ‘ignorant of the law’ • Wader thief caught under cover • Pesticide arsenal Red kite shot dead in Wicklow • Slaughter on Cyprus • Man steals iguana in false leg Continued from front page of poisons is still alive and well in the Borders area. This (compared with 44 in 2005). Forty-two incidents were incident goes to show that people are still willing to take confirmed as pesticide or poison abuse involving killing or this risk, and the result is that one of Scotland's finest birds threatening raptors (compared with 19 in 2005) and six has now been destroyed. This is criminal behaviour, and I'd cases involved the possession of pesticides suspected to be ask for the public and particularly the gamekeeping for an illegal purpose. community to come forward with information on this or Parliament commended the enthusiasm and commitment any illegal wildlife crime.’ of those involved in the fight against wildlife crime and SSPCA Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn said, ‘The various condemned those responsible. Parliament went on to urge agencies concerned are sickened at the mindless poisoning Ministers to ensure that each Scottish police force appoint of the female golden eagle found on a grouse moor. at least one full-time police wildlife crime co-coordinator; Scotland has lost one half of the only breeding pair in the that wildlife crime cases were prosecuted wherever Borders and this could ultimately result in a second possible by fiscals with specialist training; and guidance tragedy, as it is unclear if the chick will survive. The Scottish should be produced which pulls together all legislation Borders has seen too many incidents involving the illegal relevant to wildlife crime for use by landowners, managers poisoning of birds of prey in the last few years and it is and their staff. important that anyone with information comes forward.’ Bob Elliott, Senior investigations Officer with RSPB The debate in the Scottish Parliament follows the Scotland said, ‘We are pleased that so many important publication of RSPB figures, which show that 2006 was the points were raised in the chamber and we look forward to worst year ever for recorded wildlife poisoning incidents. contributing to the thematic review conducted by Paddy The ‘Persecution 2006’ report Tomkins and Joe O'Donnell. Congratulations to all the PAW (www.rspb.org.uk/Images/persecution2006_tcm9- partners in ensuring wildlife crime remains at the top of the 169910.pdf) revealed that 98 allegations or reports of political agenda.’ poisoning activity in 2006 were received by RSPB Scotland

PROSECUTIONS Housing developer fined for damaging great crested newt habitat Taylor Woodrow Developments However, in December 2006 a Limited based in Solihull, were fined manager from the company instructed £2000 with £87 costs after pleading contractors to excavate the new guilty to damaging or destroying a ponds. The contractors drove RSPB resting place of great crested newts at machinery over protective fencing with their contractors who are working a development site in Stansted onto the newt reserve and placed soil where there are protected species. I Mountfitchet, Essex following a from the excavation on top of the believe this situation was completely hearing at Harlow Magistrates Court release site. avoidable. I would like to commend PC on the 20 June 2007. Wildlife Management Advisers from Long and the Crown Prosecution The company was aware of the legally Natural England and PC Andrew Long, Service for bringing this case to Court.’ protected newts on their site and had the Force Wildlife Crime Officer for PC Andrew Long, WCO for Essex been granted a licence by Natural Essex Police, visited the reserve after Police said, ’This case demonstrates England to enable ecologists to receiving information, about the that Essex Police, working with capture the newts to allow the damaging activity from an ecologist agencies such as Natural England, can development to go ahead. The working for the company. The visit have a positive impact on wildlife captured newts were placed in a provided evidence for the subsequent crime. Essex Police will, where temporary reserve while new ponds prosecution and conviction. possible, investigate matters of wildlife were being created for them nearby. Paul Cantwell, Wildlife Management crime, and if there is sufficient Once the ponds were suitable for the Adviser with Natural England, said, evidence refer the matter to the Crown newts to live in they, and the ’This case highlights why developers Prosecution Service.’ temporary reserve, were to be joined must take extra care when dealing to form a larger reserve. Bird ‘Black Hole of Calcutta‘ in Essex A multi-agency investigation involving the RSPCA, Essex Police and RSPB resulted in a Harwich couple receiving suspended prison Essex Police sentences and a life-long ban for keeping birds in terrible conditions.

Alan Cleave, of Rectory Road, Little Oakley, Harwich admitted to 11 separate offences under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Protection of Animals Act 1901. And his wife, Jacqueline Cleave admitted to six separate offences at Colchester Magistrates Court on 3 October 2007 following an RSPCA prosecution.

The offences related to 38 birds of prey, owls and parrots found by RSPCA, police and RSPB officers at the property in February 2007. When officers arrived at the house, they found the birds living in filthy, cramped conditions. The birds included a Cassin’s hawk-eagle, worth over £10,000, and others including gabar goshawks, kestrels, Indian scops, rufous-thighed and boobook owls, as well as a hobby, a Maximillian parrot and a sulphur- The Cassin’s hawk-eagle: just crested cockatoo. one of 38 birds being kept in Veterinary bird expert Neil Forbes appalling conditions told the court that the conditions the birds were being kept in were the ‘worst, filthiest and most deplorable’. He added, ‘This aviary is, in my consideration the suffering caused to of an extra financial penalty.’ opinion, akin to a bird version of the these birds.’ Black Hole of Calcutta. After 20 years Alan Cleave was sentenced to two of treating birds of prey, I can say Essex Police WCO Andrew Long said, months’ imprisonment, suspended for this is the worst, filthiest site I have ‘This successful prosecution is a one year, and ordered to carry out 100 ever had the misfortune to visit. It is demonstration of how well Essex hours’ community service. Jacqueline totally unacceptable’. Police work with agencies such as the Cleave received the same sentence RSPCA and RSPB. I am extremely and was ordered to carry out 60 RSPCA Inspector Dave Long said, ‘It happy with the magistrates’ decision.’ hours’ community service. They were is horrendous to see these both ordered to pay £2844.19 costs. magnificent birds living in these RSPB Investigations officer Duncan They both received lifetime bans on appalling conditions. If people are to McNiven said, ‘It was depressing to keeping birds, reptiles and keep these wonderful birds then they see a magnificent African raptor like invertebrates. Additional charges of need to ensure that they have the Cassin’s hawk-eagle, which is very possession of a wild hobby and a wild necessary expertise, facilities, rare in captivity, being kept in such tawny owl as well as further cruelty finances and time to look after them appalling conditions. All the birds charges were dropped by the properly. These birds were totally had an air of dejection about them. prosecution during plea-bargaining. neglected and we are pleased that However, the forfeiture of the hawk- the magistrates have taken into eagle by the court is the equivalent Taxidermy dealer ‘ignorant of the law‘ A former Accrington antiques business, which sold stuffed animals illegally, has escaped with a conditional discharge and costs of just £65 after its director appeared before Hyndburn magistrates.

Darell Kevin Cosgrove, 41, of Globalcount Ltd, which owned the ‘Sell-it-all’ store formerly based on Blackburn Road, Accrington, appeared in court on 8 October 2007. The company was given a 12-month discharge and ordered to pay costs.

With a warrant in March 2007, Lancashire police assisted by the National Wildlife Crime Unit (NWCU) and RSPB, seized several stuffed animals protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and Wildlife and Countryside Act. At the time, Cosgrove, who is the son of Accrington businessman Kevin Cosgrove, said it was the last straw for the business and announced his plans to close its doors. Stuffed animals Cosgrove, and the store’s manager Paul Barratt, 58, were siezed by police originally charged with 28 offences under the acts, but included a red before trial all charges against them were dropped and squirrel, a species 14 were discontinued. The firm then pleaded guilty to the which is protected remaining 14 charges, which relate to the sale of stuffed under the Wildlife animals, namely a Eurasian eagle owl, three tawny owls, and Countryside Act a sparrowhawk, two peregrines, two buzzards, a robin, a starling, a Scottish wildcat, an otter and a red squirrel.

Bernard Horne defending said, ‘This is a very unusual set of offences and it is fair to say it’s something the courts

do not come across very often. The firm was not aware of Andy Hay (rspb-images.com) the legislation in place as it is more used to dealing in furniture, antiques, ceramics and works of art. The to see the court taking the matter seriously.’ offences are due to ignorance of the law and there was However, RSPB Investigations Officer Duncan McNiven not any attempt to deliberately flout the regulations, it said, ‘Lancashire Police are being very diplomatic about was a genuine mistake. Some of the animals on sale are the outcome of this case. Privately they will be between 30 and 40 years old and some date back to the disappointed by the magistrates’ decision. CITES offences 1960s, so all they believed they were doing was selling are amongst the most serious wildlife infractions that the items which could be classed as antiques. This is not a police have to deal with and in our book, ignorance of the global company. This is a local business which has always law is no excuse. The fact that an antiques dealer was made a modest return and has had a good bill of health.’ fined £2000 last year in Burnley for offences involving The Chairman of the Bench, Mrs Anne Siburuth, said, ‘We seven CITES specimens (see Legal Eagle 50), yet in a very have considered the matter and it is clear that you were similar case another gets a conditional discharge for very negligent of the law and that you should have done offences involving 14 specimens shows that the courts your research.’ are not being consistent.’

After the hearing, Lancashire Police WCO PC Nick Ignorance will certainly not be an excuse from now on Mattock, who led the investigation, said, ‘I am pleased following the setting up of the website on information on with today's result, which demonstrates that the taxidermy law by Kim MacDonald of the Guild of police are willing to work alongside other agencies Taxidermists. Taxidermy dealers now only have to click such as the RSPB and the NWCU to prosecute any on to www.taxidermylaw.co.uk to see where they stand firm committing offences of this nature. We are happy in relation to legislation. Developer and builder prosecuted for destroying bat roost in Merseyside

In July 2007, Anthony George Kountis, a businessman, of presence of the bats and accepted that he had not waited Cherry Tree Farm, Lydiate and Adam Kilshawe-Fall, a for the bats to be moved and had gone ahead and building contractor, of Southport, pleaded guilty to replaced the roof, destroying the roost in the process. destroying a roost site of brown long-eared bats, a Kountis, who is already serving a 15-month prison European Protected Species, under the Conservation sentence for a firearms offence, was fined £500 and (Natural Habitats & c.) Regulations 1994. ordered to pay £500 prosecution costs. Kilshawe-Fall, Kountis had obtained planning permission to convert a barn who was of previous good character, pleaded financial on his land into a house. A site survey had earlier revealed difficulties because of the project having been stopped. that bats were roosting in the roof and Merseyside He was fined £250 and ordered to pay £500 costs. Environmental Advisory Service had advised the council to Steve Harris said set a planning condition compelling Kountis to obtain a afterwards, ’I hope these licence from Natural England to have the bats moved to convictions will serve as safety by an ecologist before any work was started. an important reminder to However, in November 2006 planning officials visiting the all those concerned with site discovered that the roof of the barn had been completely property development that replaced without the necessary licence being obtained or any they should have proper mitigation work being done, thus destroying the bat roost regard for wildlife and completely. The work had been carried out by Kilshawe-Fall ensure that they are aware who was contracted by Kountis to carry out the work. of and comply with the Merseyside Police WCO Steve Harris investigated the relevant legislation. All matter and both men were subsequently arrested, bats, their breeding sites interviewed and charged. Kountis claimed he had not and resting places are read the ecologist’s report or a letter sent to him specially protected by law containing details of the planning condition and said he and the police will had delegated responsibility to Kilshawe-Fall. Adam prosecute offenders for Kilshawe-Fall claimed he had not been given a copy of wildlife crimes whenever it

the planning conditions but admitted knowing of the J Kaczanow is appropriate to do so.‘

Doubting Thomas snapped in the act On 7 May 2006, Josephine and Michael Steel noticed their heard detailed evidence from all parties, particularly in next-door neighbour Steven Thomas, of Haul-Y Fryn, respect of house martin breeding ecology. Ferwig, Cardigan destroying an active house martin nest The court found Michael Steel and Mark Thomas to be present under the gable of his house by using a hosepipe credible witnesses and concluded that the house martin and a tall wooden pole to remove the nest. Josephine Steel nest was active, as Michael Steel had been watching its was able to obtain three photographs of the destruction construction, which was almost fully completed at the time whilst it was taking place, one of which featured an adult of the incident. Furthermore, the court believed Michael house martin hovering just above the nest site whilst the Steel that it was his neighbour Steven Thomas whom he pole could be clearly seen positioned under the gable. had seen destroying the nest and commented that the RSPB Investigations were contacted and an investigation photographs from Josephine Steel were useful in was launched with Dyfed-Powys Police. confirming events.

Wildlife Crime Officer PC Arwyn Mason interviewed the The court found Steven Thomas guilty and he was fined suspect, who claimed the nest was not active and that he £400 with £300 costs. was removing it in order to undertake decorating. The case went to appeal at Swansea Magistrates Court on The case resulted in a one-day trial at Cardigan Magistrates 3 August 2007 when the verdict was upheld with Michael Court on 18 May 2007. The prosecution was supported by Steel having to pay another £500 in costs. expert evidence from RSPB Investigations Officer Mark RSPB wishes to thank Mr and Mrs Steele and PC Mason. Thomas while the defence employed ex RSPB Head of Investigations Peter Robinson in a similar role. The court Wader thief caught under cover Over the past five years, Legal Eagle has regularly sandpipers and red grouse were found at the premises, reported on the success of Operation Compass – the anti- together with a number of wader eggs all housed within egg collecting operation based in East Anglia. During purpose-built rearing facilities and incubators. 2006, one major incident occurred resulting in a A number of birds thought worthy of further investigation successful conviction for a millionaire wader thief. were seized and DNA samples were taken to ascertain On 4 June 2006, Natural England wardens at Scolt Head parentage of selected species. The birds were then kindly National Nature Reserve, Norfolk noticed a man enter a housed by Golders Green Zoo, London. fenced enclosure on Brancaster Beach and take the eggs Paul Zwetsloot was interviewed and admitted a variety of from an active ringed plover nest, situated under an anti- offences related to the taking of wild bird eggs. predator cage. On 28 February 2007 at King’s Lynn Magistrates Court, The man and a juvenile, who was with him, both realised Zwetsloot pleaded guilty to five offences between April they were being watched and headed off into an area of and June 2006 relating to the taking of oystercatcher dense scrub nearby. eggs from Scotland, common sandpiper and red grouse Norfolk Police were called and a police dog unit eventually eggs from Yorkshire, snipe eggs from Bedfordshire and found the two people hiding under a blanket. Neither was the ringed plover eggs from Norfolk. found in possession of any ringed plover eggs but both Zwetsloot was fined a total of £2500 and ordered to pay were arrested and taken to King’s Lynn Police Station. £1875 costs. Whilst in custody the home address of the man, Paul After the case, a number of oystercatchers, common Zwetsloot, Tally Ho, Bushmeade Road, Upper Staploe, sandpipers and snipe were released back to the wild. Bedfordshire was searched by Bedfordshire Police led by experienced WCO Inspector Phil Cannings RSPB wishes to thank the Operation Compass partnership, particularly the Natural England wardens in Bedfordshire Police found a large netted lake at the this case, PC Jon Hopes and DC Jerry Simpson, Inspector premises containing numerous wading birds including Phil Cannings and PC Martin Anstee, Ben Potterton, the avocets, oystercatchers, golden plovers, curlews, lapwings International Zoo Vet Group, Golders Green Zoo, Wildlife and redshanks. In addition, a number of juvenile DNA Services, and CPS prosecutor Nick Crampton. oystercatchers, curlews, golden plovers, common

Householder convicted of possessing and using illegal pesticides

In March 2006, some dead foxes were Paul Butt, Wildlife Management Carbofuran product found found in a neighbour’s gardens. Adviser with Natural England stated, at home of Chung Samples taken from one of the foxes ’This case highlights why pesticides showed that there was a significant must be properly stored and residue of the pesticide. Wildlife labelled. This dangerous chemical

Courtesy Natural England Advisers from Natural England, Police was found in an unmarked container Wildlife Crime Officers from Bromley in an unlocked shed. There could and the Metropolitan Police Wildlife have been serious and possibly fatal Crime Unit visited the area again. consequences if it had been found by After searching the rear garden of Mr children or other people. We are very Chung’s house they found some concerned about toxic pesticides purple coloured granules in a plastic being brought in to the country with box in a shed. Analysis confirmed the the express purpose of poisoning pellets contained carbofuran. The animals. This is illegal, indiscriminate On 6 June 2007, Mr Kee Chung, a approval for all carbofuran products and cruel. If concentrated, these resident of Bromley, Kent pleaded was withdrawn in 2001, but this chemicals are highly dangerous. If guilty at Bromley Magistrates Court remains the most regularly abused eaten, only a few grammes could to two offences of storing and using product in wildlife poisoning cases. Mr prove to be fatal. We take these the unapproved pesticide carbofuran. Chung claimed that this material was matters seriously and continue to He was fined £3200 with £1600 costs a weed killer and admitted that he had take enforcement action.’ after pleading guilty. brought this in from Hong Kong. FEPA fines for farmer On 26 July 2007, at Doncaster Magistrates court, farmer Stewart Peter Woolhouse of Kilnhurst Road, Hooton Roberts, S Yorks was fined £2000 for three offences of unlawful storage of pesticides contrary to the Food and Environment Protection Act 1981.

On the morning of 21 August 2006, a local birdwatcher was at Thyrbergh Country Park when he noticed Woolhouse‘s Land Rover crossing nearby farmland. Watching through his telescope, he saw the vehicle stop and Woolhouse walk across to the base of a hedgeline. He bent down and picked up a rabbit carcass, appeared RSPB to examine it, then threw it over the bush into the edge of has been a regularly abused product involved in 12% of the uncultivated field. wildlife poisoning cases in the last 10 years. There was a small-scale partridge shoot on the farm Woolhouse was arrested and interviewed. He accepted he managed by Woolhouse, and the witness was concerned undertook the predator control for his partridge shoot but that the rabbit may have been a poison bait. He went to stated he could not specifically remember the incident the location and found the rabbit carcass, which appeared involving the rabbit and denied any involvement in laying to have been cut open and a granular substance applied poison baits. He did not use any pesticides containing to the chest cavity. He recovered this and, after speaking aldicarb on his farm, and suggested the traces in his with a Park Ranger, contacted the RSPB. vehicle were the result of him walking over the area The RSPB attended and contacted WCO PC Hazel contaminated by whoever had put the baits on his land. Vaughan of the South Yorkshire Police. On 23 August, a Following consultation with the CPS, Woolhouse was warrant and field search took place assisted by Natural reported for a number of offences relating to the poison England and the National Wildlife Crime Unit. On the baits and unlawful storage of pesticides. Woolhouse farmland, two cut open partridge carcasses were found, pleaded guilty to two storage offences and the remaining again laced with a granular material. At Woolhouse‘s matters proceeded to trial. Although he was convicted of home a number of farming-related pesticides were found the remaining storage offence, his acquittal on other to be unlawfully and insecurely stored. Sweepings were matters was disappointing. also taken from the floor of Woolhouse‘s Land Rover. The RSPB would like to acknowledge the efforts of WCO Analysis of the carcasses and the sweepings confirmed Hazel Vaughan and the CPS in this case plus the original the presence of the agricultural pesticide aldicarb; this witness Mr Smethurst, who reported the matter.

Pigeons and pheasants used as bait A Borders gamekeeper who George Aitken, 56, admitted eight traps containing live pigeons were admitted using live pigeons as bait wildlife offences at Selkirk Sheriff also found on the estate. and lacing pheasant carcasses with Court while not guilty pleas were Mr Aitken turned up for sentence at poison has been given 220 hours of accepted to another seven charges. Selkirk Sheriff Court wearing a black community service. He was caught in August 2006 in a full-face ski-mask and a combat

RSPB joint operation by RSPB Scotland, the jacket. He was described by police Scottish Society for the Prevention of officers as showing no remorse for Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA), led by his blatant disregard of the Wildlife Lothian and Borders Police and the and Countryside Act. Scottish Executive. Banned pesticides Sheriff Kevin Drummond expressed and traps were found at Blythe Farm his dismay at the scale of the near Lauder. Carcasses of pheasants offences and after background laced with carbofuran had been laid reports were taken into consideration, out only metres from the Southern handed down a sentence of 220 Upland Way – a route popular with hours community service. Aitken (in ski-mask) walkers. Homemade illegal cage leaves court RSPB

Pesticides seized at Philip’s home were sufficient to kill over 6000 people

Pesticide arsenal WCO PC Karl Webster of the Derbyshire Police reports carbofuran, the two most commonly abused products in on a conviction following the finding of a disturbing wildlife poisoning cases, and a tube of the fumigant Talunex hoard of pesticides. in a kitchen drawer. A syringe on a windowsill was found to contain traces of the pesticide Lindane. Four containers of In June 2006, two dead ravens were picked up at a disused Phosdrin, containing the highly toxic mevinphos, were found quarry near Wirksworth. Analysis confirmed the presence of in the loft. To top this off, Section 1 ammunition was mevinphos which, though banned in 1993, has a long history haphazardly lying around in several rooms. of abuse in wildlife poisoning. Around 10 years earlier this was the first site to welcome the return of ravens as a A comprehensive file was prepared and it was calculated breeding bird to the county. There had been previous there were enough pesticides to kill more than 6000 people. poisoning incidents in the area. RSPB Investigations provided a statement outlining the abuse history of the products found and stating that the Following intelligence, a warrant was executed at the home syringe was entirely consistent with a ‘poisoner’s kit’ of Peter Philips at Water Lane, Middleton-by-Wirksworth, contrary to the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. However, Derbyshire. Natural England and the NWCU assisted with Philips denied any illegal use of the products at his home the search. Phillips, a local quarryman, also had a long and there was no direct evidence to link him with the history as a pest controller. It appeared Phillips had a poisoning of the ravens or other incidents. predilection for killing and every room contained relics and reminders of shooting, hunting, trapping and death. What On 31 July 2007, Phillips pleaded guilty at Chesterfield was of more concern was the arsenal of pesticides Magistrates Court to six offences of unlawful storage of unlawfully stored on the premises. He still held strychnine, pesticides contrary to the Food and Environment Protection recently taken off the market, from his previous days as a Act 1984. He was fined £2000 with a further £100 for failing mole catcher. However, he had no credible explanation for to comply with the conditions of his firearms certificate. The the other products found. The lid on a blue barrel held in an offence relating to the syringe under the Wildlife and outbuilding was unfastened to reveal a tin of the banned Countryside Act 1981 was withdrawn. fumigant Cymag. There was hydrogen cyanide gas leaking I would like to thank the officers from Natural England and from the product and an officer of Natural England was later RSPB, and Alan Roberts of the NWCU for their assistance admitted to hospital as a precaution after feeling unwell. with this investigation. Fortunately, he suffered no lasting effects. A utility room in the house held containers holding alphachloralose and WCO PC Andy Swinburne during the search of Gamekeeper‘s poison panic McMorn‘s home

On 27 September 2007, gamekeeper admitted the product was ‘Yaltox’ Richard Lawrence Mcmorn pleaded (which contains the active ingredient guilty at Berwick Magistrates Court carbofuran, approval for which was to four offences contrary to the Food withdrawn in 2001). Mcmorn stated and Environment Protection Act 1985 he had acquired this about seven (FEPA) and the Control of Pesticides years previously, though would not Regulations Act 1986 (COPR). This name the source. followed a joint investigation Government records show that between Northumbria Police, Natural

carbofuran is the most regularly E Ashworth/RSPB England and the RSPB. He was fined abused pesticide for the illegal £600 with £70 costs. poisoning of wildlife, and has featured fumigants or any other pesticides. On 9 June 2007, the defendant in around 30% of all UK cases in the Mcmorn stated that he also had Mcmorn was involved in a road last 10 years. However, McMorn some of the fumigant Cymag, and traffic accident near Scremerston, denied using the product for laying took the search team to one of his Berwick upon Tweed, poison baits, claiming he had got it to release pens and showed them an Northumberland. Mcmorn, 48, a self- deal with wasps (though it has never unmarked glass jar of powder lying employed gamekeeper from Ancroft, been approved for such use). on the ground. Analysis by Natural Northumberland, was seen to take a England confirmed this as Cymag; On 12 June 2007, the police, assisted jar of a dark powder from his the approval for this product was by Natural England and the RSPB, Landrover and hide it by the withdrawn in 2004. executed a search warrant at his roadside. This was recovered by home. In a cupboard inside his The RSPB wishes to thank WCO PC other people at the scene and house, a tube of the very toxic Andy Swinburne for his efforts with eventually passed to the police. fumigant Phostoxin was found. this investigation and the assistance Mcmorn was interviewed and McMorn had no facilities for storing provided by Natural England.

Huntsman convicted for badger sett interference Wildlife Crime Officer PC Andy Act 1992. Two search warrants were To support the observations of the Swinburne of the Northumbria obtained to allow evidence to be badger experts, samples of hair, Police reports. recovered from designated areas of bedding, and dung were seized from land. A period of covert surveillance each sett prior to offences being On 13 March 2007, ‘Operation was undertaken and two men were committed to confirm they were Newark’ was executed at Bradford observed digging into a sett with active badger setts. A sample of hair Kaims, near Belford, Northumberland spades. Robert McCarthy, the taken from each sett was compared by Northumbria Police assisted by Huntsman for the Duke of by Wildlife DNA Services with the the RSPCA Special Operations Unit Northumberland's Percy Hunt, and Badger DNA Database to confirm and the Northumberland Wildlife another male were apprehended and that they were badger hairs. It is Trust Badger group. arrested for interference with a believed this weight of evidence Recent amendments under the badger sett. Examination confirmed helped ensure an early guilty plea. Natural Environment and Rural that all the entrances to the sett From the outset this was a potentially Communities Act 2006 now allow under surveillance plus those to a high profile politically sensitive case, search warrants to be obtained under second sett had been filled with soil. but the excellent collaboration of the the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 The introduction of the Hunting Act agencies involved allowed strong for offences contrary to the Badgers 2004 repealed exemptions which had evidence to be gathered. On 7 August Courtesy RSPCA allowed the lawful exemptions to the 2007, Robert McCarthy appeared at Protection of Badgers Act 1992 of South East Northumberland temporarily obstructing or ‘stopping Magistrates Court and pleaded guilty up’ badger sett entrances. During to two offences of badger sett interview, McCarthy and the other interference, contrary to Section male were adamant that the setts 3(1)(b) of the Protection of Badgers Act were in fact fox earths. Even when 1992. He was given a conditional Video grab from cover temporary stopping of badger setts discharge for nine months and costs footage of two men was allowed this only allowed light of £43. The other male later received interfering with badger sett’ materials to be used. an adult caution for the same offences. NEWS

Swans massacred On 9 October 2007, RSPB Investigations were called to a was a mass grave containing numerous swans. ‘ lake at Radwell, Bedfordshire, where workmen had From the evidence at the scene, it was clear that this was discovered 29 freshly dead mute swans buried in a pit. not the work of youths. The investigation is centred on an Veterinary examination of the swans, and a marsh harrier organised and deliberate act to eradicate swans from this and grey heron also found in the pit, indicated that all the particular lake. RSPB are now appealing for the public ‘s birds had been shot. help and believe the killings took place over the weekend Commenting on the investigation, RSPB Investigations of 6–7 October 2007. Officer Mark Thomas said, ‘This is one of the worst The investigation has received good TV coverage incidents that RSPB Investigations have dealt with in the (featuring as the main news item on regional ITV Anglia last 10 years. news) and was reported in several national newspapers. ‘Someone attempted to hide the killing of these birds but Bedfordshire Police are leading on the enquiry and can the body of at least one swan was visible and on be contacted on 01234 841212. excavation with a machine it soon became apparent this

Red kite found shot dead in Wicklow Efforts to revive Ireland ‘s once extinct red kite population project in Wicklow, nationally and in Wales, it is very have been dealt a blow after a bird released in the Wicklow worrying to recover a shot kite so soon after they mountains was found shot dead on 28 August 2007. have been released, ‘ said GET project manager Damian Clarke, ‘But I must stress that the level of support from all The bird, set free six weeks previously with 29 other kites, the local farmers, landowners and local gun clubs and had been hit with shotgun pellets and was found on shooting syndicates has been excellent. ‘ farmland north of Arklow in County Wicklow. Red kites are fully protected under Irish wildlife laws and the Garda Red kites were driven to extinction in Ireland from have investigated the background to the incident. shooting, trapping and poisoning even though they pose no threat to either game birds or livestock. Kites are not The Golden Eagle Trust (GET), which is managing the powerful predators and feed mostly on carrion as well as project with the National Parks and Wildlife Service and small mammals, insects and worms. the Welsh Kite Trust, said the loss was a major blow. ‘Obviously, after all the hard work and support for the ‘We hope that all landowners can advise people shooting on their property that red kites must be left unmolested.

Chris Gomersall (rspb-images.com) These species are fully protected by the law and it is illegal to shoot red kites, by mistake or otherwise, ‘ said Mr Clarke, ‘It is very unfortunate that we should recover a shot kite during National Heritage week – it once again highlights the importance that everyone needs to play a role in protecting Ireland‘s natural and cultural Heritage.‘

The red kite programme is one of three schemes to return previously extinct birds of prey to the Irish skies. Scottish-sourced golden eagles have been released in Donegal since 2001 and one pair bred successfully in 2007, the first time since breeding ceased there in 1910. Also in 2007, 15 Norwegian white-tailed eagles were The red kite reintroduced to Killarney National Park in County Kerry in programme is one an ambitious five year-project. of three schemes to In a new project, RSPB Northern Ireland is hoping to start return previously reintroducing red kites to the South Down area of extinct birds of Northern Ireland in summer 2008. prey to Ireland Greater conservation for European Protected Species Dolphins, marine turtles, otters and other European wild in Great Britain. In addition, the exception covering Protected Species (EPS) and their habitats will benefit from specimens that were lawfully taken from the wild will be increased protection introduced in the UK on 21 August restricted and its application will depend on where and 2007. These new laws change the UK Habitats Regulations when the species was taken. For species originating from and introduce the new Offshore Marine Conservation the UK, for example, the exception will apply only to Regulations. People now have to consider, in a wider specimens taken from the wild before 10 June 1994 (the range of circumstances, the presence of these protected implementation date of the Habitats Directive in the UK). species and their breeding sites or resting places. Where the restricted defence does not apply, a licence will be required to continue to possess and trade in the Anyone who wishes to possess specimens of a protected specimens in question. species now needs a genuine reason for doing so, and must demonstrate this is compatible with the Regulations. The new Offshore Marine Conservation Regulations will Tougher rules on the trading of protected European species extend protection to marine species, wild birds and which are non-native to the UK also act as a deterrent to habitats out to 200 nautical miles. A number of Special the killing or taking of such species from the wild. Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas will be identified and protected in the offshore area. The first The transposition of the Habitats Directive in the UK was seven draft sites will be consulted on imminently. The new subject to two European Court of Justice Judgments. In Offshore Marine Conservation Regulations apply to all sea the light of these judgments, the Habitats Regulations in users in the offshore area and prohibit the deliberate England and Wales have been amended and the Wild killing or disturbance of European Protected Species, Birds Directive and Habitats Directive transposed beyond including dolphins, turtles and sturgeon. UK territorial waters. For more information on the amendments to the Habitats The judgments ruled that existing species protection Regulations see www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-countryside/ provisions in the Habitats Regulations were not fully ewd/index.htm and www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si2007/ compatible with the strict species protection regime uksi_20071843_en.pdf required by the Habitats Directive. A separate, related judgment ruled that trade in all species listed on Annex IV For more information on the Offshore Marine of the Habitats Directive should be prohibited rather than Conservation Regulations see trade in just those species found in Great Britain. www.defra.gov.uk/marine/biodiversity/index.htm

The principal offences for protecting animals under the The Marine and Fisheries Agency will be responsible for Habitats Regulations address the deliberate capturing or issuing wildlife licences under these Regulations. Certain killing; deliberate taking or destroying of eggs; deliberate strict tests will have to be met for a licence to be issued to disturbance; and damaging or destroying a breeding site ensure that the affected species are adequately protected. or resting place of Annex IV species resident in the wild See www.mfa.gov.uk in Great Britain, that is European Protected Species (EPS). For plants there is an offence covering deliberately European Protected Animals (whose natural range picking, collecting, cutting, uprooting or destroying a wild includes GB) plant of an EPS. The Habitats Regulations provide certain Bats, Horseshoe (all Great crested newt defences to these offences that may operate in clearly species) Large Blue Butterfly specified circumstances. Bats, Typical (all species) Marine Turtles The majority of the defences originally in the Habitats Common Otter Natterjack Toad Regulations will be removed. This includes the ‘incidental Dolphins, porpoises and Sand Lizard result defence’ which applies to acts which could whales (all species) Smooth Snake constitute an offence but were the incidental result of an Dormouse (but not edible Sturgeon otherwise lawful activity and could not reasonably have or fat dormouse) Wild cat been avoided. In the absence of such a defence, the offence prohibiting disturbance of EPS is amended to European Protected Plants (whose natural range better reflect the terms of the Directive and to allow trivial includes GB) acts of disturbance to continue without constituting an offence and therefore requiring a licence. Creeping Marshwort Killarney Fern Early Gentian Lady‘s Slipper The prohibition covering possession and trade (including Fen Orchid Shore Dock transport and exchange) of species taken from the wild will Floating-leaved Water Slender Naiad be extended to include all species listed on Annex IV of the Plantain Yellow Marsh Saxifrage Habitats Directive, not just those that are resident in the Peregrine Northern Ireland Study Are peregrines in Northern Ireland declining as a result were less likely to hold a pair, and more likely to hold a of human persecution? A recent RSPB study involving single bird or be vacant. The probability of fledging nearly 30 years of peregrine survey data aimed to answer young was lower in pair-occupied territories that are this question. The data, collected by Jim Wells and other persecuted than in non-persecuted pair territories. members of the Northern Ireland Raptor Study Group Persecuted territories produced fewer nestlings per pair (NIRSG), were used to test whether human persecution than non-persecuted territories. The probability of young may have contributed to the reduction in the peregrine fledging was lower in pair-occupied territories that are population – from 96 pairs in 1991 to 87 pairs in 2002. persecuted than in non-persecuted pair territories. Reports of persecution of peregrine nests have This indicates that human persecution may be having an increased in recent years, and in Northern Ireland it is effect on the peregrine population of Northern Ireland. suspected that persecution is linked to some of the The research is likely to have underestimated the pigeon racing fraternity. amount of persecuted sites, as persecution is often Fifty cases of proven persecution were recorded at 35 difficult to detect and some persecution happens away territories between 1977 and 2005 in Northern Ireland. A from the nest (eg shooting of adult peregrines). further 128 suspected instances of persecution occurred, Therefore, the decline in the Northern Ireland peregrine but these were not used in the analysis. Nearly all (93.6%) population since 1991 may be at least in part attributable of the suspected events occurred at known persecuted to human persecution. territories. Types of persecution included the removal of The RSPB will be working to fulfil the main eggs or young from the nest, soil dumped on eggs, and recommendations in the report: shooting or poisoning of birds. with the NIRSG and the Police, to establish a system Sites that peregrines had used during the breeding • of reporting and collating persecution incidents, and season were defined as a ‘territory‘, and could be used by to ensure more research and monitoring to allow a pair of peregrines, a single bird or may have been • population modelling to draw more definitive vacant. The survey investigated whether young birds conclusions. were fledged at a territory, and whether evidence of persecution was found. The study also looked at other The RSPB also supports the initial work that has been factors, such as territory habitat and altitude. undertaken between the NIRSG and local pigeon racing groups to raise awareness. The results showed that over time, persecuted territories Conference news The 19th annual UK Police and Customs Wildlife entertaining after dinner speech followed by the results of Enforcement Conference took place on 9–11 October 2007 the annual Conference Quiz, which saw Barry Fryer, Head at the Villa Marina on the Isle of Man. Around 125 of the RSPCA Specialist Operations Unit, accepting the delegates attended, representing police forces across the bottle of bubbly on behalf of the winning RSPCA team. UK, Government departments and voluntary The conference was an extremely useful event, with organisations with an interest in wildlife law enforcement. NWCU announcing their new priorities and Nick Crampton The conference was opened by The Honourable George from CPS providing the audience with advice on how best Martin Quayle MHK, Minister for Home Affairs within the to work with the CPS and the new importance of SSSJ Isle of Man Government, followed by strategic message (simple, speedy, summary justice). Graham Rankin of the delivered by Defra, Her Majesty‘s Revenue and Customs Durham Constabulary also highlighted the importance of and the Police Service. Delegates were also pleased to using Cross Compliance in enforcement, and Ian Knox of welcome for the first time Natural England‘s newly the Metropolitan Police highlighted the need for a review appointed Regulatory Director; Ian Fugler, and, from the in the COTES legislation. Marine Fisheries Agency, Neil Wellum and Juliette Parker. The workshops covered a wide variety of issues, with There was a great variety of talks, including some topics to interest everyone, including: tortoises, wildlife interesting cases from around the UK as well as some poisoning, The Animal Welfare Act, poaching, Regulation local speakers including Fiona Gell from the Isle of Man of Investigatory Powers Act/Covert Human Intelligence Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, who Source, Environment Agency Enforcement and improving gave an interesting insight into the local wildlife. Chris Control of Trade in Endangered Species Regulations. Sharpe from the Manx Bird Atlas also gave an WWF Wildlife

Law Enforcer of Guy Shorrock/RSPB the Year Award Nigel Lound of Lincolnshire Police has been named this year’s WWF Wildlife Law Enforcer of the Year in recognition of his work against wildlife crime. Heather Sohl, Wildlife Trade Officer at WWF said, ’Constable Lound has shown a real commitment to tackling wildlife crime. We need more PC Lound (right) accepting his award and cuddly panda officers like him across the country not only to bring the criminals to justice once crimes have been committed, but also to help raise awareness and educate the public to was called out. I accept the award on behalf of Lincolnshire reduce wildlife crimes in the first place. His outstanding Police and particularly the five colleagues who work with efforts help local wildlife, but also benefit the conservation me in this area, I see this as very much a team effort and of endangered species at a global level.’ without their support I would not have won. The Chief Constable Tony Lake also deserves a mention, as without Constable Lound is currently investigating the sale of two his help I would not have had the vehicle, the equipment or Moluccan cockatoos which he believed to be stolen or the resources to do my job.’ imported illegally. The suspect was traced and interviewed and a file has now been submitted to the Crown The runner up has been named as Andrew Steel, an HM Prosecution Service. Constable Lound also successfully Revenue and Customs Investigation Officer based in prosecuted a local builder who had demolished a building London. He has been actively involved in investigating knowing it housed bats and was therefore legally protected. wildlife trade offences for the past seven years. Lound has made it a priority to increase awareness of Defra’s Biodiversity Minister, Joan Ruddock, said, ’I too wish wildlife crime, its enforcement and prevention. This to pay tribute to Nigel Lound and Andrew Steel and additional work includes giving presentations to local congratulate them on winning these awards. Both have schools, community groups and businesses as well as shown great dedication and professionalism and have made providing training and support to his fellow officers. He is a real contribution to the fight against national and currently filming a documentary entitled Wildlife 24/7, which international wildlife crime. I'd also like to take this addresses the issues of endangered wildlife and rare plants. opportunity to thank all the other Police and Customs Nigel Lound said, ’I am delighted to have received this officers who enforce wildlife law throughout the UK and award. To have been nominated along with the other who are gathered on the Isle of Man this week for their dedicated deserving people working in this field is very annual conference. Many of them carry out their wildlife law pleasing but until Wednesday evening when the awards enforcement responsibilities in their own time and in were presented I did not even know that I had been addition to their other day-to-day responsibilities, which nominated. I was stunned and surprised when my name makes their achievements even more remarkable.’ Bushmeat update In order to assess possible infringements of the regulations, DNA was extracted from samples at point Convention on the International Trade in Endangered of seizure by WDNAS in a converted customs Species of flora and fauna (CITES) through the illegal interview room, prior to genetic identification at the importation of meat into the UK, a pilot study was WDNAS laboratories. undertaken to identify the species composition of meat Sixty-two meat samples were chosen as possible wild seized entering the UK at Heathrow airport. The project meat of which seven (four pangolins, one marsh buck, involved teams from HMRC, Defra Global Wildlife and one cane rat and a wild pig species) were identified as International Animal Health and the Food Standards wild meat, with the remainder originating from Agency. There was backing from the International Fund agricultural animals. Of the wild meat samples, five for Animal Welfare (IFAW) and the forensic work was (pangolins and marsh buck) were identified as belonging undertaken by Wildlife DNA Services (WDNAS). to CITES regulated species. The majority of the imported Samples were obtained through seizures of illegal meat was likely for personal use. Some of the wild meat imports of meat on five separate occasions during late samples entering the UK from Africa did so from 2005 and early 2006. In compliance with licensing European transit flights. INTERNATIONAL Chris Gomersall (rspb-images.com)

Hungarian customs officers found around 400 carcasses of protected Carcasses of birds including woodlarks protected birds seized from Romanian bus at Austrian border

Hungarian customs officers found and seized a consignment of carcasses of hundreds of protected birds from a Romanian bus leaving Hungary for Austria at Rabafuzes, a customs official said on 17 October 2007.

The bus arrived at the border late on Tuesday and customs officers found around 400 dead birds in a bag hidden above the rear wheels. According to preliminary estimates, the birds, including woodlarks, great tits, chaffinches and greenfinches are worth around 16,000 Euros to the bird trade. Smuggling setback

The CID in the North German town of Steinfurt in The head of the smuggling ring was caught red-handed Munsterland landed a big coup yesterday – and the by the Norwegian customs two years ago. His VW international animal smuggling trade suffered a big minibus at that time had been equipped with concealed setback. The breeding enclosures and business premises compartments that contained numerous wader and song of two bird traders, both well-known throughout Europe, bird eggs and chicks. were raided and searched. The police found and The internet activities of the traders had been monitored for confiscated over 300 birds of protected species including some considerable time. Although they had been offering dotterel, greater sand plover, redshank, curlew, various most uncommon species for sale for years, charges laid tern species, pratincoles and even woodchat shrike. The with the police had not been successful to date. two suspects were unable to prove the origin of the birds; many rings were unclosed or forged and some birds More information and pictures (at present in German were not ringed at all. only) at www.komitee.de/index.php?metelen Andy Hay (rspb-images.com)

Over 300 birds of protected species like redshank were confiscated following raids by German police Slaughter on Cyprus BirdLife Cyprus, has recorded one of the worst single of cruelty to such an important migratory species. It is incidents of the slaughter of birds of prey in Europe in ironic that due to the protection of the habitat, the recent years. Sovereign Base Areas, as well as being a hotspot for migratory birds, have also become a hotspot for illegal The incident, which took place within the Akrotiri British hunters. The SBA Police, working with the Cyprus Game Sovereign Base Area (SBA), involved the gunning down Fund, have spent over 1000 hours on anti-poaching of 52 red-footed falcons, which were migrating through activities in 2007 and made 17 arrests. We believe that the island. This species is in serious decline across environmental education will be very important to tackle Europe and listed by the IUCN as ‘near threatened’. this in the long term and are pleased that our On Friday 5 October, 46 red-footed falcons were Environmental Education Centre at Akrotiri has been recovered dead, and another six were left with horrific selected as part of the RoC's school's curriculum. Through injuries and later died. Mike Miltiadous, a BirdLife Cyprus this work we hope that future generations on Cyprus will research officer, said, ‘I have never come across such a appreciate more fully the value of their exceptional scale of a massacre of birds of prey in Cyprus. The natural heritage and not tolerate such activities.’ Akrotiri SBA shares a border with the Republic, and it is reported that hunters are taking advantage of the lack of joint anti-poaching patrols by the SBA Police and the Cyprus Game Fund, which regulates hunting on behalf of the Cypriot government. There are reports of hunters “running wild” along the border between the SBA and the Republic, simply stepping across the dividing line to avoid detection.’

BirdLife Cyprus also called for an immediate ban on shooting on the entire Akrotiri peninsula. Although almost all the peninsula is a protected reserve, a narrow coastal strip along the west is opened for hunting turtle doves and quails from early September to mid-October.

The SBA Police have stated that they have made two arrests in connection with the incident and two local men will appear in court on 6 November. The potential

maximum punishment is a fine of £10,000 and three RSPB years in prison. In one of the worst incidents of the illegal killing of birds Dr Ian Davidson-Watts, Head of the SBA Environment of prey in Europe in recent years, 52 red-footed falcons Department stated, ‘We are disgusted by this wanton act were found slaughtered on the island of Cyprus Man steals iguanas in false leg

A Californian man has been charged with using his false Having been informed that James had several specimens leg to smuggle three endangered iguanas from a nature at his home, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service reserve in Fiji to the United States. Prosecutors say launched an undercover investigation into his activities. Jereme James stole the banded iguanas while on a visit On one occasion, James allegedly told an undercover to the South Pacific island in 2002. He is alleged to have agent that he sold three banded iguanas for the sum of constructed a special compartment inside his prosthetic $32,000 (£16,000) four years ago. When James's house limb to move the reptiles. was searched in July, agents are said to have found a further four banded iguanas. Officials began investigating Mr James after receiving a tip off that he was in possession of several of the beasts. Officials say they think James was breeding the animals The Fiji Island banded iguana, noted for its bright green for sale. ‘That's what we believe has been going on,’ said skin, is threatened with extinction and protected under Assistant US Attorney Joseph O Johns. ‘Mother Nature the Convention on International Trade in Endangered has taken her course.’ Species (CITES). James could face up to five years in The iguanas will now be placed in a breeding programme prison if convicted. in the US. Roger Wilmshurst (rspb-images.com)

189 ring-billed gulls were killed when a pickup truck Philadelphia carnage driven by Daniel Gallagher ploughed through the A judge in Philadelphia convicted a longshoreman of killing 189 gulls that were roosting birds roosting at a marine terminal and fined him the minimum $14,175 ($75 per bird). Daniel Gallagher, the president of an International Longshoremen’s Union local, was also ordered to pay $5000 in restitution for a company-owned pickup truck that was wrecked when he ploughed through the birds and crashed.

Gallagher had previously testified that he was talking on a walkie-talkie and trying to grab a spilling coffee cup when the gulls flew up in front of his windshield in February 2006.

’I don’t know if I hit the brakes or not,‘ he said. ’I just panicked.‘

Assistant District Attorney Bill James said Gallagher ’went out of his way'’ to drive through the flock at Packer Marine Terminal. He also showed a videotape of a 200 ft (60 m) path of dead birds.

Prosecutors had requested Gallagher, of South Philadelphia, be fined the maximum of $47,800. Municipal Court Judge Deborah Shelton Griffin rejected that figure, saying she believed the bird massacre was the result of an accident.

Gallagher’s lawyer, S Philip Steinberg, said he would appeal and seek a trial in Common Pleas Court.

AND FINALLY Blog off! RSPB Investigations recently launched its own web blog. This is an internet diary page featuring the latest views from the front line of bird protection.

The diary can be visited at blogs.rspb.org.uk/investigations

Write to be read We welcome contributions to Legal Eagle. Please let us know about wildlife crime initiatives, news, events and prosecutions in your force. Send your articles to the Editor, The RSPB, Investigations Section, The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire SG19 2DL, by e-mail to [email protected] or by fax to 01767 693078. The views expressed in Legal Eagle are not necessarily those of the RSPB. Please help us keep the WCO mailing list up to date by sending any changes to [email protected].

The RSPB BirdLife UK Headquarters Northern Ireland Headquarters INTERNATIONAL The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire SG19 2DL Belvoir Park Forest, Belfast BT8 7QT Tel: 01767 680551 Tel: 028 9049 1547 The RSPB is the UK charity working to secure a healthy environment for birds and wildlife, Scotland Headquarters Wales Headquarters helping to create a better world for us all. We 25 Ravelston Terrace, Sutherland House, Castlebridge, belong to BirdLife International, the global Dunedin House, Edinburgh EH4 3TP Cowbridge Road East, Cardiff CF11 9AB partnership of bird conservation organisations. Tel: 0131 311 6500 Tel: 029 2035 3000

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For more information on wild birds and the law, visit www.rspb.org.uk/birdlaw