FIRECREST TOURS : Guided Birdwatching & Wildlife Days

Hats off to Police Superintendent Nick Lyall, the current Chair of the Raptor Persecution Priority Delivery Group (RPPDG) in England and Wales. This guy took up post in September and promised accountability, transparency, and most importantly, delivery of the group’s objectives, which centre on a partnership approach to tackling illegal raptor persecution. No easy task […] from Raptor Persecution UK http://bit.ly/2BOHHqq via IFTTT

Hats off to Police Superintendent Nick Lyall, the current Chair of the Raptor Persecution Priority Delivery Group (RPPDG) in England and Wales. This guy took up post in September and promised accountability, transparency, and most importantly, delivery of the group’s objectives, which centre on a partnership approach to tackling illegal raptor persecution. No easy task […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/30/police-supt-nick-lyall-to-create-hostile-environment-for-raptor-killers-in-england-wales/

MASSIVE CONGRATULATIONS to Chris Packham who has been appointed CBE in the New Years Honours for services to nature conservation. The irony of this recognition from ‘The Establishment’ won’t be lost on him, but neither will the opportunities it will provide for him to expand his outstanding campaigning efforts against illegal raptor persecution, fox hunting and […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/29/chris-packham-appointed-cbe-for-services-to-nature-conservation/

MASSIVE CONGRATULATIONS to Chris Packham who has been appointed CBE in the New Years Honours for services to nature conservation. The irony of this recognition from ‘The Establishment’ won’t be lost on him, but neither will the opportunities it will provide for him to expand his outstanding campaigning efforts against illegal raptor persecution, fox hunting and […] from Raptor Persecution UK http://bit.ly/2EWjKkp via IFTTT

Many, many thanks to the Birdwatch team for nominating me for this accolade and to the Birdwatch readers who voted for me in the 2018 Birdwatch Birders’ Choice Awards. I did not expect this result! It’s a huge honour to win, not least given the calibre of fellow nominees on the shortlist, but what I’m […] from Raptor Persecution UK http://bit.ly/2EFLxFu via IFTTT

Many, many thanks to the Birdwatch team for nominating me for this accolade and to the Birdwatch readers who voted for me in the 2018 Birdwatch Birders’ Choice Awards. I did not expect this result! It’s a huge honour to win, not least given the calibre of fellow nominees on the shortlist, but what I’m […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/23/birdwatch-birders-choice-awards-2018-conservation-hero-of-the-year/

The Edinburgh office of charity OneKind was broken in to overnight on Weds/Thurs morning and a number of laptops and other equipment was stolen. A police investigation has opened. OneKind Director Bob Elliot told us that their databases are all secure and uncompromised. If you’re able to donate a small amount of money to help […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/21/friends-in-need-onekinds-office-burgled-equipment-stolen/

The Edinburgh office of charity OneKind was broken in to overnight on Weds/Thurs morning and a number of laptops and other equipment was stolen. A police investigation has opened. OneKind Director Bob Elliot told us that their databases are all secure and uncompromised. If you’re able to donate a small amount of money to help […] from Raptor Persecution UK http://bit.ly/2SczG5z via IFTTT

Earlier this week the Peak District Bird of Prey Initiative published its Peak District Bird of Prey Report 2018 and issued the following press statement: Peak District Bird of Prey Initiative highlights mixed fortunes for birds of prey in the National Park The Peak District Bird of Prey Initiative has today published its annual report […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/20/peak-district-bird-of-prey-initiative-hanging-by-a-thread/

Earlier this week the Peak District Bird of Prey Initiative published its Peak District Bird of Prey Report 2018 and issued the following press statement: Peak District Bird of Prey Initiative highlights mixed fortunes for birds of prey in the National Park The Peak District Bird of Prey Initiative has today published its annual report […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2R7mKkb via IFTTT

Remember back in November 2016 when a series of FoI requests revealed that Natural England was prepared to waste £50K of tax payers money on a social science ‘study’ to assess attitudes towards the Hen Harrier Action Plan? See here for info. The proposed ‘study’ was put forward by Prof Steve Redpath (Aberdeen Uni / […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/19/50k-study-reveals-the-bleedin-obvious-grouse-shooters-conservationists-disagree-on-hen-harrier-brood-meddling/

Remember back in November 2016 when a series of FoI requests revealed that Natural England was prepared to waste £50K of tax payers money on a social science ‘study’ to assess attitudes towards the Hen Harrier Action Plan? See here for info. The proposed ‘study’ was put forward by Prof Steve Redpath (Aberdeen Uni / […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2EFg2w6 via IFTTT

Northampton Police press release (17 December 2018): Buzzard shot in Sywell Country Park Police officers are appealing for information after a buzzard was shot in Sywell Country Park. The incident happened between 7am on Wednesday, November 28, and 8pm on Thursday, November 29, when a buzzard was found injured in the park having been shot. […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/19/buzzard-found-shot-in-sywell-country-park-northants/

Northampton Police press release (17 December 2018): Buzzard shot in Sywell Country Park Police officers are appealing for information after a buzzard was shot in Sywell Country Park. The incident happened between 7am on Wednesday, November 28, and 8pm on Thursday, November 29, when a buzzard was found injured in the park having been shot. […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2Cla3tQ via IFTTT

Earlier this week we blogged about the Countryside Alliance and GWCT’s responses to the legal challenge against Natural England’s decision to licence hen harrier brood meddling (see here). Both organisations struggled to understand why there should be resistance to this ludicrous plan, calling opposition from conservationists “extraordinary” and “odd“. This idiot’s guide might help (thanks, […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2ElgAGl via IFTTT

Earlier this week we blogged about the Countryside Alliance and GWCT’s responses to the legal challenge against Natural England’s decision to licence hen harrier brood meddling (see here). Both organisations struggled to understand why there should be resistance to this ludicrous plan, calling opposition from conservationists “extraordinary” and “odd“. This idiot’s guide might help (thanks, […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/15/an-idiots-guide-to-hen-harrier-brood-meddling-fao-countryside-alliance-gwct/

RSPB Scotland has published its latest report (The illegal killing of birds of prey in Scotland 2015-17 Report) which details amongst other things the ongoing illegal slaughter of birds of prey on Scottish grouse moors. Press release from RSPB Scotland: Grouse moor regulation vital to end illegal killing of Scotland’s raptors A new RSPB Scotland […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/14/new-rspb-report-details-ongoing-illegal-slaughter-of-raptors-on-scottish-grouse-moors/

RSPB Scotland has published its latest report (The illegal killing of birds of prey in Scotland 2015-17 Report) which details amongst other things the ongoing illegal slaughter of birds of prey on Scottish grouse moors. Press release from RSPB Scotland: Grouse moor regulation vital to end illegal killing of Scotland’s raptors A new RSPB Scotland […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2Ek4bCv via IFTTT

There was a reporter from The Times in court for day two of the hen harrier brood meddling legal challenge and he wrote a piece which appeared the next day: It’s a very short but accurate account of what was going on in Court 18 of the Royal Courts of Justice. However, this article has […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2rAhRSA via IFTTT

There was a reporter from The Times in court for day two of the hen harrier brood meddling legal challenge and he wrote a piece which appeared the next day: It’s a very short but accurate account of what was going on in Court 18 of the Royal Courts of Justice. However, this article has […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/13/countryside-alliance-gwct-comment-on-hen-harrier-brood-meddling-legal-challenge/

Day two of the legal challenge against Natural England’s decision to licence hen harrier brood meddling took place in the Royal Courts of Justice on Thurs 6th Dec 2018. For those who don’t know what hen harrier brood meddling is, please see here. For info about day one of this judicial review please see here. […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2RVnJ4n via IFTTT

Day two of the legal challenge against Natural England’s decision to licence hen harrier brood meddling took place in the Royal Courts of Justice on Thurs 6th Dec 2018. For those who don’t know what hen harrier brood meddling is, please see here. For info about day one of this judicial review please see here. […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/12/hen-harrier-brood-meddling-legal-challenge-day-2/

We’re saddened to report the passing of Ricky Gladwell Snr, a long-standing member of the Scottish Raptor Study Group, a field expert in hen harrier ecology and a familiar smiling face at the annual conferences of the SRSG and Northern England Raptor Forum. A lovely, lovely man who will be dearly missed. Below is an […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2LeEOn9 via IFTTT

We’re saddened to report the passing of Ricky Gladwell Snr, a long-standing member of the Scottish Raptor Study Group, a field expert in hen harrier ecology and a familiar smiling face at the annual conferences of the SRSG and Northern England Raptor Forum. A lovely, lovely man who will be dearly missed. Below is an […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/12/obituary-ricky-gladwell-snr/

How poignant are these? ‘Missing’ posters drawn by P4 school children (aged 7-8 years old) from Sunnyside Primary School in Glasgow after learning of the suspicious ‘disappearance’ of golden eagle Fred earlier this year. Advertisements RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/12/glasgow-school-kids-learn-golden-eagle-persecution-still-a-thing-in-their-country/

How poignant are these? ‘Missing’ posters drawn by P4 school children (aged 7-8 years old) from Sunnyside Primary School in Glasgow after learning of the suspicious ‘disappearance’ of golden eagle Fred earlier this year. Advertisements from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2EfoMbd via IFTTT

Last week we blogged about two owls (a short-eared and a tawny owl) that had been found shot on moorland in the Peak District National Park (here). West Yorkshire Police and the RSPB issued a joint statement appealing for information. [Photo of the shot short-eared owl from RSPB] As usual, the Northern England Raptor Forum […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/11/continued-inertia-from-grouse-shooting-reps-on-illegal-raptor-persecution/

Last week we blogged about two owls (a short-eared and a tawny owl) that had been found shot on moorland in the Peak District National Park (here). West Yorkshire Police and the RSPB issued a joint statement appealing for information. [Photo of the shot short-eared owl from RSPB] As usual, the Northern England Raptor Forum […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2SIq6Yc via IFTTT

If you thought Scottish Natural Heritage’s decision to licence the killing of 69 ravens in Strathbraan was bad……. Research by Dr Rob Sheldon has now revealed that from Jan 2015-July 2018, SNH issued 621 licences permitting the killing of over 4,000 ravens in Scotland. The shocking details can be found on Rob’s blog (here). [Raven […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/11/fois-reveal-mass-slaughter-of-ravens-in-scotland-authorised-by-snh/

If you thought Scottish Natural Heritage’s decision to licence the killing of 69 ravens in Strathbraan was bad……. Research by Dr Rob Sheldon has now revealed that from Jan 2015-July 2018, SNH issued 621 licences permitting the killing of over 4,000 ravens in Scotland. The shocking details can be found on Rob’s blog (here). [Raven […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2zSMkzH via IFTTT

Revive: the coalition for grouse moor reform has published its second report. Revive commissioned Common Weal and Lateral North to examine alternative futures for Scotland’s driven grouse moors, an area covering almost one fifth of Scotland where the current focus is on maximising the number of red grouse to be killed for sport; an environmentally damaging […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/10/back-to-life-new-report-on-alternative-visions-for-scotlands-grouse-moors/

Revive: the coalition for grouse moor reform has published its second report. Revive commissioned Common Weal and Lateral North to examine alternative futures for Scotland’s driven grouse moors, an area covering almost one fifth of Scotland where the current focus is on maximising the number of red grouse to be killed for sport; an environmentally damaging […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2RL2XEg via IFTTT

Police are appealing for information after the discovery of two shot owls in the Peak District National Park. On the evening of 11 September 2018 a local runner witnessed a short-eared owl flying overhead, followed by what sounded like gunshots. The following morning she returned to the moorland near Wessenden Head in the northern Peak […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2BX4SAd via IFTTT

Police are appealing for information after the discovery of two shot owls in the Peak District National Park. On the evening of 11 September 2018 a local runner witnessed a short-eared owl flying overhead, followed by what sounded like gunshots. The following morning she returned to the moorland near Wessenden Head in the northern Peak […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/07/two-owls-shot-in-peak-district-national-park/

The two-day legal challenge (judicial review) of Natural England’s decision to licence hen harrier brood meddling got underway in the Royal Courts of Justice yesterday. [Mark Avery with his legal team outside the court at the end of day one. L-R: Lewis Hadler, Tessa Gregory, David Wofle QC, Zoe Levanthal, Mark Avery. Photo by Ruth […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2SBSuLF via IFTTT

The two-day legal challenge (judicial review) of Natural England’s decision to licence hen harrier brood meddling got underway in the Royal Courts of Justice yesterday. [Mark Avery with his legal team outside the court at the end of day one. L-R: Lewis Hadler, Tessa Gregory, David Wofle QC, Zoe Levanthal, Mark Avery. Photo by Ruth […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/06/hen-harrier-brood-meddling-legal-challenge-day-1/

Press release from law firm Leigh Day (4 Dec 2018) Campaign to protect endangered hen harriers to be heard in High Court The High Court will hear a legal challenge to the brood management of endangered hen harriers on Wednesday 5th and Thursday 6th December 2018. Leading conservationist Mark Avery, represented by law firm Leigh Day, is […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/05/legal-challenge-against-hen-harrier-brood-meddling-reaches-the-high-court/

Press release from law firm Leigh Day (4 Dec 2018) Campaign to protect endangered hen harriers to be heard in High Court The High Court will hear a legal challenge to the brood management of endangered hen harriers on Wednesday 5th and Thursday 6th December 2018. Leading conservationist Mark Avery, represented by law firm Leigh Day, is […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2AUwnZE via IFTTT

From Cumnock Chronicle (29 Nov 2018) POISONED BIRD OF PREY SPARKS POLICE WARNING Residents in Mauchline are being warned to be on the look out after a bird of prey was found poisoned. A member of the public discovered the buzzard, still alive but in a distressed state on land on the outskirts of the […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/04/buzzard-found-poisoned-near-mauchline-south-scotland/

From Cumnock Chronicle (29 Nov 2018) POISONED BIRD OF PREY SPARKS POLICE WARNING Residents in Mauchline are being warned to be on the look out after a bird of prey was found poisoned. A member of the public discovered the buzzard, still alive but in a distressed state on land on the outskirts of the […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2KUzl4B via IFTTT

Police press release (4 Dec 2018): POLICE INVESTIGATION LAUNCHED AFTER BIRDS OF PREY KILLED BY ILLEGAL TRAPS ON ISLE OF WIGHT Two protected birds of prey, likely to have been caught in illegal spring traps, suffered ‘horrific and traumatic’ injuries. A joint investigation has been launched by Isle of Wight Police and the RSPB after […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/04/buzzard-hobby-found-with-horrific-spring-trap-injuries-on-isle-of-wight/

Police press release (4 Dec 2018): POLICE INVESTIGATION LAUNCHED AFTER BIRDS OF PREY KILLED BY ILLEGAL TRAPS ON ISLE OF WIGHT Two protected birds of prey, likely to have been caught in illegal spring traps, suffered ‘horrific and traumatic’ injuries. A joint investigation has been launched by Isle of Wight Police and the RSPB after […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2zFYImq via IFTTT

White-tailed eagles are never far from the news and even feature in the latest edition of Private Eye: The Committee on Climate Change reports referred to in the article can be found here. They’re really worth a read. The following text in the report ‘Land use: reducing emissions and preparing for climate change‘ will be […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2PiHOPE via IFTTT

White-tailed eagles are never far from the news and even feature in the latest edition of Private Eye: The Committee on Climate Change reports referred to in the article can be found here. They’re really worth a read. The following text in the report ‘Land use: reducing emissions and preparing for climate change‘ will be […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/04/private-eye-sea-eagles-hill-farmers-grouse-moor-burning/

Congratulations to Mark Thomas who will be taking on the role of RSPB Head of Investigations in January, following the departure of Bob Elliot earlier this year. Mark is no stranger to this field. He joined the RSPB’s Investigations Team based at The Lodge HQ way back in 1999 and has spent the last 19 […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2EaoCCJ via IFTTT

Congratulations to Mark Thomas who will be taking on the role of RSPB Head of Investigations in January, following the departure of Bob Elliot earlier this year. Mark is no stranger to this field. He joined the RSPB’s Investigations Team based at The Lodge HQ way back in 1999 and has spent the last 19 […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/03/new-rspb-head-of-investigations/

Press release from Abertay University (29/11/18): Scientitists recover fingerprints from feather exposed to outdoor conditions An Abertay University study has discovered that fingerprints can be recovered from bird feathers that have been left outside, exposing them to environmental conditions. Previous research from PhD Student Helen McMorris had revealed that it was possible to obtain fingerprints […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2StrUEn via IFTTT

Press release from Abertay University (29/11/18): Scientitists recover fingerprints from feather exposed to outdoor conditions An Abertay University study has discovered that fingerprints can be recovered from bird feathers that have been left outside, exposing them to environmental conditions. Previous research from PhD Student Helen McMorris had revealed that it was possible to obtain fingerprints […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/12/03/new-forensic-tool-to-identify-human-fingerprints-on-illegally-killed-raptors/

Police Scotland has issued a statement about the discovery of an illegal gin trap found set near Nairn in the Highlands: ILLEGAL GIN TRAP FOUND NEAR NAIRN (30 Nov 2018) Police in Nairn have issued a warning about the use of illegal traps following the discovery of one set near the town. The illegal gin […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/30/illegal-gin-trap-found-set-near-nairn-highlands/

Police Scotland has issued a statement about the discovery of an illegal gin trap found set near Nairn in the Highlands: ILLEGAL GIN TRAP FOUND NEAR NAIRN (30 Nov 2018) Police in Nairn have issued a warning about the use of illegal traps following the discovery of one set near the town. The illegal gin […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2rfffJy via IFTTT

North Yorkshire Police are appealing for information after the discovery of yet another shot & killed red kite in the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The latest in a long line of victims, this red kite was found dead on 25th October 2018 near to Wath. [X-ray of the shot red kite showing […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/30/yet-another-red-kite-shot-killed-in-north-yorkshires-nidderdale-aonb/

North Yorkshire Police are appealing for information after the discovery of yet another shot & killed red kite in the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The latest in a long line of victims, this red kite was found dead on 25th October 2018 near to Wath. [X-ray of the shot red kite showing […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2FQA08w via IFTTT

Earlier this month the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation and the Forestry Commission announced a proposal to reintroduce white-tailed eagles to the Isle of Wight (see here). [Photo by Marcin Nawrocki] The National Farmers Union has been having its say about the proposal (see here). Now’s your chance to have your say. A very short online […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/30/proposed-reintroduction-of-white-tailed-eagles-to-isle-of-wight-have-your-say/

Earlier this month the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation and the Forestry Commission announced a proposal to reintroduce white-tailed eagles to the Isle of Wight (see here). [Photo by Marcin Nawrocki] The National Farmers Union has been having its say about the proposal (see here). Now’s your chance to have your say. A very short online […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2DSln1R via IFTTT

Daniel Lingham, 65, was sentenced today at Norwich Magistrates Court after earlier pleading guilty to five charges relating to the unlawful possession of over 5,000 eggs including 75 listed on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act (species given the highest level of protection) including Marsh harrier. [Daniel Lingham, photo by Norfolk Police] Lingham was […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/27/serial-egg-thief-daniel-lingham-receives-custodial-sentence/

Daniel Lingham, 65, was sentenced today at Norwich Magistrates Court after earlier pleading guilty to five charges relating to the unlawful possession of over 5,000 eggs including 75 listed on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act (species given the highest level of protection) including Marsh harrier. [Daniel Lingham, photo by Norfolk Police] Lingham was […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2Aup2zF via IFTTT

Here we go again. Just last week we saw the British Association of Shooting & Conservation (BASC) claim that “the values and standards of the UK shooting community…is driven by strong ethics and respect for quarry“. The evidence continues to suggest otherwise. These pictures, sent to us by a blog reader, show approx 30 shot […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/27/pheasants-shot-dumped-near-duns-scottish-borders/

Here we go again. Just last week we saw the British Association of Shooting & Conservation (BASC) claim that “the values and standards of the UK shooting community…is driven by strong ethics and respect for quarry“. The evidence continues to suggest otherwise. These pictures, sent to us by a blog reader, show approx 30 shot […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2TOXPRc via IFTTT

Earlier this month RSPB Scotland announced that four of this year’s satellite-tagged hen harriers had ‘disappeared’ in suspicious circumstances on Scottish grouse moors (see here). We’ve blogged recently about the areas where hen harriers Margot and Stelmaria ‘disappeared’ in the Cairngorms National Park (see here and here). Today we’re looking at the area where hen harrier […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/26/hen-harrier-heather-disappeared-on-grouse-moor-in-strathbraan-raven-cull-area/

Earlier this month RSPB Scotland announced that four of this year’s satellite-tagged hen harriers had ‘disappeared’ in suspicious circumstances on Scottish grouse moors (see here). We’ve blogged recently about the areas where hen harriers Margot and Stelmaria ‘disappeared’ in the Cairngorms National Park (see here and here). Today we’re looking at the area where hen harrier […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2DIDuqU via IFTTT

Earlier this month RSPB Scotland announced that four of this year’s satellite-tagged hen harriers had ‘disappeared’ in suspicious circumstances on Scottish grouse moors (see here). We then highlighted how two of those four missing hen harriers (Margot & Stelmaria) had ‘disappeared’ inside the Cairngorms National Park (see here). [RPUK map showing approximate last known locations of hen […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/23/from-which-grouse-shooting-estate-did-hen-harrier-stelmaria-disappear/

Earlier this month RSPB Scotland announced that four of this year’s satellite-tagged hen harriers had ‘disappeared’ in suspicious circumstances on Scottish grouse moors (see here). We then highlighted how two of those four missing hen harriers (Margot & Stelmaria) had ‘disappeared’ inside the Cairngorms National Park (see here). [RPUK map showing approximate last known locations of hen […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2POpSS9 via IFTTT

Earlier this month RSPB Scotland announced that four of this year’s satellite-tagged hen harriers had ‘disappeared’ in suspicious circumstances on Scottish grouse moors (see here). Yesterday we highlighted how two of those four missing hen harriers (Margot & Stelmaria) had ‘disappeared’ inside the Cairngorms National Park (see here). Today we’re going to take a closer look […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/22/did-hen-harrier-margot-disappear-on-a-royal-grouse-moor/

Earlier this month RSPB Scotland announced that four of this year’s satellite-tagged hen harriers had ‘disappeared’ in suspicious circumstances on Scottish grouse moors (see here). Yesterday we highlighted how two of those four missing hen harriers (Margot & Stelmaria) had ‘disappeared’ inside the Cairngorms National Park (see here). Today we’re going to take a closer look […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2qYNNzx via IFTTT

Earlier this month RSPB Scotland announced that four of this year’s satellite-tagged hen harriers had ‘disappeared’ in suspicious circumstances on Scottish grouse moors (see here). [RPUK map showing approximate last known locations of four satellite-tagged hen harriers] We said at the time that we’d be coming back to this subject as we were interested in […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/21/two-of-the-four-missing-satellite-tagged-hen-harriers-disappeared-on-grouse-moors-in-cairngorms-national-park/

Earlier this month RSPB Scotland announced that four of this year’s satellite-tagged hen harriers had ‘disappeared’ in suspicious circumstances on Scottish grouse moors (see here). [RPUK map showing approximate last known locations of four satellite-tagged hen harriers] We said at the time that we’d be coming back to this subject as we were interested in […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2Acezsw via IFTTT

The picture often painted by the grouse shooting industry is one of community harmony – a rural idyll where local residents are deliriously enthralled by the activities of the local grouse moor managers and thankful for the boost that grouse shooting brings to the local economy, without which the local community would apparently collapse. Sounds […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/21/local-community-raises-concerns-about-grouse-moor-management-in-national-park/

The picture often painted by the grouse shooting industry is one of community harmony – a rural idyll where local residents are deliriously enthralled by the activities of the local grouse moor managers and thankful for the boost that grouse shooting brings to the local economy, without which the local community would apparently collapse. Sounds […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2FvJ0zL via IFTTT

The long-awaited trial of Edradynate Estate’s now former Head Gamekeeper began today at Perth Sheriff Court. David Campbell, 69, denies that between 14 and 16 April 2017 at Edradynate Estate he maliciously damaged game crops by spraying them with an unknown substance which caused them to rot and perish. At the time of the alleged […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/19/trial-begins-for-now-ex-head-gamekeeper-of-edradynate-estate/

The long-awaited trial of Edradynate Estate’s now former Head Gamekeeper began today at Perth Sheriff Court. David Campbell, 69, denies that between 14 and 16 April 2017 at Edradynate Estate he maliciously damaged game crops by spraying them with an unknown substance which caused them to rot and perish. At the time of the alleged […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2QWISdI via IFTTT

The Northern England Raptor Forum (NERF) annual conference took place on Saturday with a record number of 170 attendees. NERF comprises ten regional study groups (Bowland Raptor Study Group, Calderdale RSG, Cheshire RSG, Durham Upland Bird Study Group, Manchester Raptor Group, Northumbria Ringing Group, North York Moors Upland Bird (Merlin) Study Group, Peak District Raptor […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2BgGKZ9 via IFTTT

The Northern England Raptor Forum (NERF) annual conference took place on Saturday with a record number of 170 attendees. NERF comprises ten regional study groups (Bowland Raptor Study Group, Calderdale RSG, Cheshire RSG, Durham Upland Bird Study Group, Manchester Raptor Group, Northumbria Ringing Group, North York Moors Upland Bird (Merlin) Study Group, Peak District Raptor […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/19/raptor-persecution-highlighted-at-nerf-annual-conference/

Andy Wightman MSP (Scottish Green Party) has lodged the following parliamentary motion commending the Revive Coalition for grouse moor reform: It’ll be interesting to see which MSPs sign up to support this, or perhaps more interesting to see which ones don’t. They can’t say they don’t know about it as earlier this week a great […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/15/parliamentary-motion-commends-revive-the-coalition-for-grouse-moor-reform/

Andy Wightman MSP (Scottish Green Party) has lodged the following parliamentary motion commending the Revive Coalition for grouse moor reform: It’ll be interesting to see which MSPs sign up to support this, or perhaps more interesting to see which ones don’t. They can’t say they don’t know about it as earlier this week a great […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2Pt7uOO via IFTTT

We can expect significant changes in the way raptor persecution is tackled in England & Wales, if Police Supt Nick Lyall has his way. Nick is the new Chair of the Raptor Persecution Priority Delivery Group (RPPDG), which is tasked with the ‘delivery’ of action against the raptor killers (in Scotland the ‘delivery’ group is […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/14/time-for-new-approach-to-tackling-raptor-persecution-in-england-wales/

We can expect significant changes in the way raptor persecution is tackled in England & Wales, if Police Supt Nick Lyall has his way. Nick is the new Chair of the Raptor Persecution Priority Delivery Group (RPPDG), which is tasked with the ‘delivery’ of action against the raptor killers (in Scotland the ‘delivery’ group is […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2B5sVwg via IFTTT

RSPB press release (12/11/18): A rare Hen Harrier has suddenly disappeared in North Yorkshire, triggering an investigation by the police and the RSPB. This is the ninth bird to disappear in suspicious circumstances in the last 12 weeks. The bird, named Arthur, hatched from a nest in the Peak District this summer. This was the […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2PS7Ptr via IFTTT

RSPB press release (12/11/18): A rare Hen Harrier has suddenly disappeared in North Yorkshire, triggering an investigation by the police and the RSPB. This is the ninth bird to disappear in suspicious circumstances in the last 12 weeks. The bird, named Arthur, hatched from a nest in the Peak District this summer. This was the […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/12/satellite-tagged-hen-harrier-arthur-disappears-near-grouse-moor-in-north-york-moors-national-park/

In November last year we blogged about some second-hand information we’d received that the Moorland Association (the grouse moor owners’ lobby group in England) was interested in obtaining licences from Natural England for the lethal control of Marsh harriers (see here). The issue was alleged to have been raised by Amanda Anderson (Director, Moorland Association) […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/12/licences-to-kill-marsh-harriers-on-grouse-moors-an-update/

In November last year we blogged about some second-hand information we’d received that the Moorland Association (the grouse moor owners’ lobby group in England) was interested in obtaining licences from Natural England for the lethal control of Marsh harriers (see here). The issue was alleged to have been raised by Amanda Anderson (Director, Moorland Association) […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2DjBHZ0 via IFTTT

This buzzard was found today at Skipwith in North Yorkshire, with horrific injuries caused by a shotgun. According to Jean Thorpe (raptor rehabilitator extraordinaire) the buzzard was found alive but with a broken shoulder and humerus. She thinks its injuries were so severe it would not have been able to fly from the location where […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2QtNzLL via IFTTT

This buzzard was found today at Skipwith in North Yorkshire, with horrific injuries caused by a shotgun. According to Jean Thorpe (raptor rehabilitator extraordinaire) the buzzard was found alive but with a broken shoulder and humerus. She thinks its injuries were so severe it would not have been able to fly from the location where […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/10/buzzard-found-in-north-yorkshire-with-horrific-injuries-from-shotgun/

You’ll remember Timothy Cowin. He’s the gamekeeper who was convicted this summer for the illegal killing of two short-eared owls on the Whernside Estate in the Yorkshire Dales National Park (see here). Cowin’s criminal activities were captured on camera by the RSPB Investigations Team, whose extraordinary footage also included a chase across the moor, his […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2z3ao2d via IFTTT

You’ll remember Timothy Cowin. He’s the gamekeeper who was convicted this summer for the illegal killing of two short-eared owls on the Whernside Estate in the Yorkshire Dales National Park (see here). Cowin’s criminal activities were captured on camera by the RSPB Investigations Team, whose extraordinary footage also included a chase across the moor, his […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/10/has-this-convicted-gamekeeper-had-his-shotgun-firearms-certs-revoked-yet/

Last week we blogged about the Scottish Gamekeepers Association’s (SGA) feeble attempt to undermine and discredit the findings of the damning Golden Eagle Satellite Tag Review by commissioning an opinion from a lawyer who, as far as we can tell, has no scientific expertise or qualifications (see here). This is the Golden Eagle Satellite Tag […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/09/scottish-government-dismisses-sgas-attempt-to-discredit-golden-eagle-satellite-tag-review/

Last week we blogged about the Scottish Gamekeepers Association’s (SGA) feeble attempt to undermine and discredit the findings of the damning Golden Eagle Satellite Tag Review by commissioning an opinion from a lawyer who, as far as we can tell, has no scientific expertise or qualifications (see here). This is the Golden Eagle Satellite Tag […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2OyQSzJ via IFTTT

Yesterday was the UK’s first Rural Crime Day – a national initiative organised by the National Police Chief’s Council with a series of police-led events throughout the country to help tackle rural crime, e.g. see here. As part of this ‘day of action’, the following was posted on the official twitter account of the Scottish […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2SVVR0C via IFTTT

Yesterday was the UK’s first Rural Crime Day – a national initiative organised by the National Police Chief’s Council with a series of police-led events throughout the country to help tackle rural crime, e.g. see here. As part of this ‘day of action’, the following was posted on the official twitter account of the Scottish […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/09/we-need-action-not-trite-sound-bites-on-social-media/

Revive, the coalition for grouse moor reform, was formally launched in Edinburgh on Tuesday evening and what a fantastic reception it received! The Revive coalition is an unusual alliance of campaigners, scientists and policy advocates from the fields of social justice, conservation, animal welfare and environmental protection, coming together to present the case for the […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/08/great-reception-for-launch-of-revive-the-coalition-for-grouse-moor-reform/

Revive, the coalition for grouse moor reform, was formally launched in Edinburgh on Tuesday evening and what a fantastic reception it received! The Revive coalition is an unusual alliance of campaigners, scientists and policy advocates from the fields of social justice, conservation, animal welfare and environmental protection, coming together to present the case for the […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2RIjnwN via IFTTT

Press release from RSPB Scotland (6 Nov 2018): Four rare hen harriers disappear on Scottish grouse moors: RSPB Scotland appeals for information RSPB Scotland is appealing for information following the suspicious disappearance of four satellite tagged hen harriers over the last 10 weeks. All of the birds were tagged at various nest sites, three this […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/06/four-more-satellite-tagged-hen-harriers-disappear-on-scottish-grouse-moors/

Press release from RSPB Scotland (6 Nov 2018): Four rare hen harriers disappear on Scottish grouse moors: RSPB Scotland appeals for information RSPB Scotland is appealing for information following the suspicious disappearance of four satellite tagged hen harriers over the last 10 weeks. All of the birds were tagged at various nest sites, three this […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2QrObSs via IFTTT

The newly-formed Revive Coalition for grouse moor reform will be launched tomorrow evening in Edinburgh. As a build up to the event, two coalition members have published opinion pieces today on why grouse moor reform is needed: Robbie Marsland, Director of the League Against Cruel Sports Scotland has a guest blog on Mark Avery’s blog […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/05/revive-the-coalition-for-grouse-moor-reform-why-its-needed/

The newly-formed Revive Coalition for grouse moor reform will be launched tomorrow evening in Edinburgh. As a build up to the event, two coalition members have published opinion pieces today on why grouse moor reform is needed: Robbie Marsland, Director of the League Against Cruel Sports Scotland has a guest blog on Mark Avery’s blog […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2PJdG4c via IFTTT

A new scientific peer-reviewed paper, authored by a group of highly-respected award-winning ecologists, commends the “exemplary” and “thorough” scientific approach of the golden eagle satellite tag review. The paper has just been accepted for publication but due to publishing restrictions we’re unable to publish it here (although we’ve read it in full). When it finally […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/04/golden-eagle-satellite-tag-review-exemplary-and-thorough/

A new scientific peer-reviewed paper, authored by a group of highly-respected award-winning ecologists, commends the “exemplary” and “thorough” scientific approach of the golden eagle satellite tag review. The paper has just been accepted for publication but due to publishing restrictions we’re unable to publish it here (although we’ve read it in full). When it finally […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2F3s17I via IFTTT

From the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation: White-tailed Eagles were once widespread along the whole of the South Coast of England, from Cornwall to Kent, before being driven to extinction by relentless persecution that began in the Middle Ages. The last pair bred on Culver Cliff on the Isle of Wight in 1780. Many parts of […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/11/01/proposal-to-reintroduce-white-tailed-eagles-to-isle-of-wight/

From the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation: White-tailed Eagles were once widespread along the whole of the South Coast of England, from Cornwall to Kent, before being driven to extinction by relentless persecution that began in the Middle Ages. The last pair bred on Culver Cliff on the Isle of Wight in 1780. Many parts of […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2Pu8KQT via IFTTT

Earlier this month we blogged about the discovery of a dead peregrine in the Pentland Hills Regional Park just south of Edinburgh (see here). The dead adult male, part of a breeding pair, had been found in May and toxicology results confirmed he had been killed with a highly toxic banned poison, capable of killing […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/10/31/parliamentary-questions-on-poisoned-peregrine-in-pentland-hills/

Earlier this month we blogged about the discovery of a dead peregrine in the Pentland Hills Regional Park just south of Edinburgh (see here). The dead adult male, part of a breeding pair, had been found in May and toxicology results confirmed he had been killed with a highly toxic banned poison, capable of killing […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2yIPvcK via IFTTT

Press statement from Hertfordshire Constabulary (25 Oct 2018): Red kite shot in Ashwell Officers from Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Rural Support Team are currently investigating the shooting of a Red Kite. The injured bird was spotted by a local gamekeeper on a bridleway called Green Lane, just off Northfields Road in Ashwell, on Saturday September 29. However […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2PlLHHV via IFTTT

Press statement from Hertfordshire Constabulary (25 Oct 2018): Red kite shot in Ashwell Officers from Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Rural Support Team are currently investigating the shooting of a Red Kite. The injured bird was spotted by a local gamekeeper on a bridleway called Green Lane, just off Northfields Road in Ashwell, on Saturday September 29. However […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/10/27/red-kite-shot-in-ashwell-hertfordshire-2/

Today’s earlier blog post (here) on the hypocrisy of the Scottish Government’s reaction to #Goatgate took a bit of a side swipe at the length of time it’s taking the Scottish Government to introduce regulation, enforcement and accountability to the driven grouse shooting industry. But here’s a bit of perspective on the matter. At least […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/10/26/at-least-scottish-ministers-are-listening-those-at-westminster-not-so-much/

Today’s earlier blog post (here) on the hypocrisy of the Scottish Government’s reaction to #Goatgate took a bit of a side swipe at the length of time it’s taking the Scottish Government to introduce regulation, enforcement and accountability to the driven grouse shooting industry. But here’s a bit of perspective on the matter. At least […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2qd6OxH via IFTTT

An opinion piece for the New Statesman today, discussing the Scottish Government’s quick reaction to the peverse trophy-hunting of goats and its less-than-quick reaction to the equally peverse trophy-hunting of driven red grouse. Article available here Advertisements RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/10/26/trophy-hunting-of-goats-is-no-less-peverse-than-driven-grouse-shooting-new-statesman-opinion-piece/

An opinion piece for the New Statesman today, discussing the Scottish Government’s quick reaction to the peverse trophy-hunting of goats and its less-than-quick reaction to the equally peverse trophy-hunting of driven red grouse. Article available here Advertisements from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2EIIRZu via IFTTT

Once again, we’re having to report on the deliberate persecution of a protected bird of prey in the Moy area of Highland Scotland, a well-known raptor persecution hotspot. RPUK map showing location of Moy: Police Scotland has issued the following appeal for information this morning: Appeal after buzzard reported trapped south of Inverness Police Scotland […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2O5cL9n via IFTTT

Once again, we’re having to report on the deliberate persecution of a protected bird of prey in the Moy area of Highland Scotland, a well-known raptor persecution hotspot. RPUK map showing location of Moy: Police Scotland has issued the following appeal for information this morning: Appeal after buzzard reported trapped south of Inverness Police Scotland […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/10/25/buzzard-caught-in-illegally-set-trap-near-moy/

Diversionary feeding of hen harriers (where alternative food is provided for breeding birds to reduce the number of red grouse chicks they might otherwise have taken) has long been an option for grouse moor managers who complain that hen harriers eat ‘too many’ grouse. This practice has been studied in depth during the Langholm Moor […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/10/24/new-paper-from-langholm-study-shows-effectiveness-of-hen-harrier-diversionary-feeding/

Diversionary feeding of hen harriers (where alternative food is provided for breeding birds to reduce the number of red grouse chicks they might otherwise have taken) has long been an option for grouse moor managers who complain that hen harriers eat ‘too many’ grouse. This practice has been studied in depth during the Langholm Moor […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2OIgkrn via IFTTT

The Scottish Government-commissioned review of grouse moor management continues, with the Review Group, chaired by Professor Alan Werritty, taking evidence from a variety of individuals and organisations. For new blog readers, this review was ordered in May 2017 by Environment Cabinet Secretary Roseanna Cunningham after the publication of another review, ‘Analyses of the fates of […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2JaAiFe via IFTTT

The Scottish Government-commissioned review of grouse moor management continues, with the Review Group, chaired by Professor Alan Werritty, taking evidence from a variety of individuals and organisations. For new blog readers, this review was ordered in May 2017 by Environment Cabinet Secretary Roseanna Cunningham after the publication of another review, ‘Analyses of the fates of […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/10/23/werritty-review-evidence-of-raptor-persecution-on-some-grouse-moors-compelling-shocking/

An exciting new partnership will be launched in Scotland in early November – Revive: the coalition for grouse moor reform. The Revive coalition is an unusual alliance of campaigners, scientists and policy advocates from the fields of social justice, conservation, animal welfare and environmental protection, coming together to present the case for the reform of […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2Cvdb6W via IFTTT

An exciting new partnership will be launched in Scotland in early November – Revive: the coalition for grouse moor reform. The Revive coalition is an unusual alliance of campaigners, scientists and policy advocates from the fields of social justice, conservation, animal welfare and environmental protection, coming together to present the case for the reform of […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/10/20/revive-the-coalition-for-grouse-moor-reform-coming-soon/

We learned about the suspicious disappearance of satellite-tagged hen harrier Mabel on Thursday (here), the same day we learned about the suspicious disappearance of satellite-tagged hen harrier Thor (here). As usual, we’ve been tracking the official responses of the so-called partners in the Raptor Persecution Priority Delivery Group (RPPDG), which was established in 2011 and […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/10/20/responses-to-missing-hen-harrier-mabel/

We learned about the suspicious disappearance of satellite-tagged hen harrier Mabel on Thursday (here), the same day we learned about the suspicious disappearance of satellite-tagged hen harrier Thor (here). As usual, we’ve been tracking the official responses of the so-called partners in the Raptor Persecution Priority Delivery Group (RPPDG), which was established in 2011 and […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2q1TZWZ via IFTTT

Yesterday we were hit with the news of two missing hen harriers – ‘Thor’, a young bird tagged by the RSPB who disappeared in a wildlife crime hotspot in the Bowland AONB (here) and then later in the day, ‘Mabel’, a young bird tagged by Natural England who disappeared in a wildlife crime hotspot on […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2P9aRcF via IFTTT

Yesterday we were hit with the news of two missing hen harriers – ‘Thor’, a young bird tagged by the RSPB who disappeared in a wildlife crime hotspot in the Bowland AONB (here) and then later in the day, ‘Mabel’, a young bird tagged by Natural England who disappeared in a wildlife crime hotspot on […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/10/19/responses-to-missing-hen-harrier-thor/

Hot on the heels of this morning’s news that satellite-tagged Hen Harrier Thor ‘disappeared’ in Bowland on 3 October (here), there’s now news of another one. Hen harrier ‘Mabel’ hatched from the only nest in the Yorkshire Dales National Park earlier this year (you’ll remember, the nest that was declared by the Yorkshire Dales Moorland […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/10/18/hen-harrier-mabel-disappears-near-grouse-moor-on-yorkshire-dales-national-park-boundary/

Hot on the heels of this morning’s news that satellite-tagged Hen Harrier Thor ‘disappeared’ in Bowland on 3 October (here), there’s now news of another one. Hen harrier ‘Mabel’ hatched from the only nest in the Yorkshire Dales National Park earlier this year (you’ll remember, the nest that was declared by the Yorkshire Dales Moorland […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2pYzZVl via IFTTT

Just a little over a month ago the RSPB told us that three of this year’s satellite-tagged hen harrier chicks had all ‘dsiappeared’ in suspicious circumstances on driven grouse moors (here). This morning they’ve announced the suspicious disappearance of another one. Here’s the RSPB’s report: Thor is no more: First hatched hen harrier in Bowland […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2018/10/18/hen-harrier-thor-disappears-next-to-grouse-moor-in-bowland-aonb/