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RSPB calls for tougher action on raptor killings
The victims of the killings included peregrine falcons, marsh harriers and buzzards.

Report reveals 68 confirmed incidents of raptor persecution in 2017

The RSPB has reissued its call to the government to take tougher action on illegal bird of prey persecution in the UK.

The call comes in response to the RSPB’s latest Birdcrime report, which reveals that shooting has become the main method of targeting birds of prey, otherwise known as raptors.



In 2017 there were 68 confirmed incidents of raptor persecution, but only four prosecutions relating to raptor crime. Of those, only one resulted in a conviction.



The victims included rare species such as peregrine falcons, hen harriers and marsh harriers, as well as more common species such as buzzards. 



“We should all be able to enjoy seeing these magnificent birds, however illegal activity continues to put species at risk,” said Martin Harper, RSPB conservation director.

“There are laws in place to protect these birds but they are clearly not being respected or adequately enforced. We need governments across the UK to do more to tackle illegal killing to protect our raptors for us and for future generations to enjoy.”



For a full copy of the report, together with a map detailing where raptor persecutions have occurred, visit www.rspb.org.uk/birdcrime

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

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News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.