FIRECREST TOURS : Guided Birdwatching & Wildlife Days

North Yorkshire Police are appealing on Twitter for information about a shot buzzard that was found by a member of the public on Tuesday 26 March 2019 near Whashton. There doesn’t appear to be any further detail available. Anyone with information please call 101 and cite ref number #12190055485. Advertisements RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/30/shot-buzzard-found-near-whashton-north-yorkshire-police-appeal-for-info/

North Yorkshire Police are appealing on Twitter for information about a shot buzzard that was found by a member of the public on Tuesday 26 March 2019 near Whashton. There doesn’t appear to be any further detail available. Anyone with information please call 101 and cite ref number #12190055485. Advertisements from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2V1TOc6 via IFTTT

It’s not quite April Fools’ Day but the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation thought it’d get in there early this year. Just a week on from the publication of a scientific paper that demonstrated the catastrophic loss of satellite-tagged hen harriers was undeniably linked to land managed by gamekeepers for grouse shooting (see here), the National Gamekeepers’ […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2CJceXX via IFTTT

It’s not quite April Fools’ Day but the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation thought it’d get in there early this year. Just a week on from the publication of a scientific paper that demonstrated the catastrophic loss of satellite-tagged hen harriers was undeniably linked to land managed by gamekeepers for grouse shooting (see here), the National Gamekeepers’ […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/29/dont-laugh-but-gamekeepers-claim-to-care-deeply-about-protecting-hen-harriers/

A couple of weeks ago we blogged about how Tim Weston, a Development Officer for the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation (NGO) had suggested that the suspicious disappearance of satellite-tagged hen harrier ‘Vulcan’ had been a “set-up” by the RSPB (see here). At the same time, he argued that there was “zero wildlife crime” in the area […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2CEWa9R via IFTTT

A couple of weeks ago we blogged about how Tim Weston, a Development Officer for the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation (NGO) had suggested that the suspicious disappearance of satellite-tagged hen harrier ‘Vulcan’ had been a “set-up” by the RSPB (see here). At the same time, he argued that there was “zero wildlife crime” in the area […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/27/national-gamekeepers-rep-still-in-denial-about-extent-of-illegal-raptor-persecution/

Excellent news! This morning the RSPB has stated its intention to appeal the hen harrier brood meddling ruling. This follows on from the news that Mark Avery has already lodged an appeal (see here). Writing on his blog this morning, the RSPB’s Global Conservation Director Martin Harper said that after an RSPB Council meeting yesterday, […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/27/rspb-to-appeal-hen-harrier-brood-meddling-ruling/

Excellent news! This morning the RSPB has stated its intention to appeal the hen harrier brood meddling ruling. This follows on from the news that Mark Avery has already lodged an appeal (see here). Writing on his blog this morning, the RSPB’s Global Conservation Director Martin Harper said that after an RSPB Council meeting yesterday, […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2UkP5p3 via IFTTT

The Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) is a charity registered in England, Wales and Scotland and as such it has to abide by certain rules and regulations. A charity might find itself in deep water with the charities regulator if it was found to have been publishing material it knew was deliberately misleading. Andrew […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2FwXtYK via IFTTT

The Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) is a charity registered in England, Wales and Scotland and as such it has to abide by certain rules and regulations. A charity might find itself in deep water with the charities regulator if it was found to have been publishing material it knew was deliberately misleading. Andrew […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/26/game-wildlife-conservation-trust-gwct-deliberately-publishing-misleading-information/

Last August a farmer was convicted of recklessly disturbing a pair of breeding ospreys at Bassenthwaite, in the Lake District (see here). Paul Barnes, 58, of Brook Cottage, Keswick had been found guilty after a three-day trial at Workington Magistrates. The court heard how he had taken a group of children in his tractor and trailer […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2Wnn4KI via IFTTT

Last August a farmer was convicted of recklessly disturbing a pair of breeding ospreys at Bassenthwaite, in the Lake District (see here). Paul Barnes, 58, of Brook Cottage, Keswick had been found guilty after a three-day trial at Workington Magistrates. The court heard how he had taken a group of children in his tractor and trailer […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/26/lake-district-farmers-osprey-disturbance-conviction-is-quashed/

What an absolutely fantastic response by supporters of Wild Justice, who have raised an amazing £36,000 in ten days, which means that Wild Justice’s legal challenge against Natural England has now been fully funded and the crowdfunder has closed. Thanks to everyone who contributed, both financially and by spreading and sharing the word. I think […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2UUpSyv via IFTTT

What an absolutely fantastic response by supporters of Wild Justice, who have raised an amazing £36,000 in ten days, which means that Wild Justice’s legal challenge against Natural England has now been fully funded and the crowdfunder has closed. Thanks to everyone who contributed, both financially and by spreading and sharing the word. I think […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/25/wild-justice-supporters-raise-36k-in-ten-days-to-fund-first-legal-challenge/

Earlier this week, Farmers Weekly wrote an article purporting to be about Wild Justice’s first legal challenge. The article headlined with this: The headline was, of course, completely inaccurate, as was a lot of the text, and led to a fair amount of online abuse. This morning Wild Justice Director Mark Avery wrote a letter […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2WtyVqP via IFTTT

Earlier this week, Farmers Weekly wrote an article purporting to be about Wild Justice’s first legal challenge. The article headlined with this: The headline was, of course, completely inaccurate, as was a lot of the text, and led to a fair amount of online abuse. This morning Wild Justice Director Mark Avery wrote a letter […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/25/farmers-weekly-struggles-with-facts-on-wild-justice-legal-challenge/

The trial of Edradynate Estate’s former head gamekeeper continued at Perth Sheriff Court last week. 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. [Edradynate Estate driveway, photo by Ruth Tingay] At […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2TX9wJ9 via IFTTT

The trial of Edradynate Estate’s former head gamekeeper continued at Perth Sheriff Court last week. 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. [Edradynate Estate driveway, photo by Ruth Tingay] At […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/25/former-edradynate-estate-head-gamekeeper-fails-to-persuade-court-to-abandon-his-trial/

The publication of the hen harrier satellite tag paper on Tuesday (here) that provided compelling evidence to highlight, yet again, the link between grouse moors and the illegal killing of hen harriers, has resulted in a flurry of responses from various individuals and organisations. We’ve be looking at these responses in turn. So far we’ve […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2us469S via IFTTT

The publication of the hen harrier satellite tag paper on Tuesday (here) that provided compelling evidence to highlight, yet again, the link between grouse moors and the illegal killing of hen harriers, has resulted in a flurry of responses from various individuals and organisations. We’ve be looking at these responses in turn. So far we’ve […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/25/responses-to-hen-harrier-satellite-tag-paper-gwct/

The publication of the hen harrier satellite tag paper on Tuesday (here) that provided compelling evidence to highlight, yet again, the link between grouse moors and the illegal killing of hen harriers, has resulted in a flurry of responses from various individuals and organisations. We’ll be looking at these responses in turn. So far we’ve […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2TwnlZL via IFTTT

The publication of the hen harrier satellite tag paper on Tuesday (here) that provided compelling evidence to highlight, yet again, the link between grouse moors and the illegal killing of hen harriers, has resulted in a flurry of responses from various individuals and organisations. We’ll be looking at these responses in turn. So far we’ve […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/24/responses-to-hen-harrier-satellite-tag-paper-moorland-association/

Press release from Cairngorms National Park Authority (23 March 2019) Cutting edge technology to provide new insight into lives of Scotland’s golden eagles An innovative new type of satellite tag has been designed to provide a boost to understanding raptor movements and behaviour, as well as help understand the fate of birds which die in […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/23/new-satellite-tag-to-detect-illegal-killing-of-golden-eagles-in-cairngorms-national-park-eagle-killing-hotspot/

Press release from Cairngorms National Park Authority (23 March 2019) Cutting edge technology to provide new insight into lives of Scotland’s golden eagles An innovative new type of satellite tag has been designed to provide a boost to understanding raptor movements and behaviour, as well as help understand the fate of birds which die in […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2JyjewL via IFTTT

The publication of the hen harrier satellite tag paper on Tuesday (here) that provided compelling evidence to highlight, yet again, the link between grouse moors and the illegal killing of hen harriers, has resulted in a flurry of responses from various individuals and organisations. We’ll be looking at these responses in turn. So far we’ve […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2FrF6EW via IFTTT

The publication of the hen harrier satellite tag paper on Tuesday (here) that provided compelling evidence to highlight, yet again, the link between grouse moors and the illegal killing of hen harriers, has resulted in a flurry of responses from various individuals and organisations. We’ll be looking at these responses in turn. So far we’ve […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/22/responses-to-hen-harrier-satellite-tag-paper-northern-england-raptor-forum/

The owner of Denton Moor, a company called NG Bailey, has announced it will not renew the grouse shooting lease to its current tenant following a spate of wildlife crime. Denton Moor in the Nidderdale AONB in Yorkshire was where the RSPB filmed footage of several armed men, dressed as gamekeepers, shooting at a nesting […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/22/grouse-shooting-lease-on-wildlife-crime-grouse-moor-will-not-be-renewed/

The owner of Denton Moor, a company called NG Bailey, has announced it will not renew the grouse shooting lease to its current tenant following a spate of wildlife crime. Denton Moor in the Nidderdale AONB in Yorkshire was where the RSPB filmed footage of several armed men, dressed as gamekeepers, shooting at a nesting […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2TSLD5h via IFTTT

First legal case for Wild Justice challenges Natural England’s licences for bird killing Environmental organisation Wild Justice has issued legal proceedings in the High Court challenging the lawfulness of the General Licence system used by Natural England to authorise the killing of birds that would otherwise be protected. Wild Justice, a not-for-profit organisation, was launched […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/22/wild-justice-submits-application-for-judicial-review-general-licences/

First legal case for Wild Justice challenges Natural England’s licences for bird killing Environmental organisation Wild Justice has issued legal proceedings in the High Court challenging the lawfulness of the General Licence system used by Natural England to authorise the killing of birds that would otherwise be protected. Wild Justice, a not-for-profit organisation, was launched […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2UPfWGC via IFTTT

The publication of the hen harrier satellite tag paper on Tuesday (here) that provided compelling evidence to highlight, yet again, the link between grouse moors and the illegal killing of hen harriers, has resulted in a flurry of responses from various individuals and organisations. We’ll be looking at these responses in turn. So far we’ve […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/21/responses-to-hen-harrier-satellite-tag-paper-wildlife-minister-dr-therese-coffey/

The publication of the hen harrier satellite tag paper on Tuesday (here) that provided compelling evidence to highlight, yet again, the link between grouse moors and the illegal killing of hen harriers, has resulted in a flurry of responses from various individuals and organisations. We’ll be looking at these responses in turn. So far we’ve […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2Wl6gUN via IFTTT

Some of you may remember the footage of an armed man, believed to be a gamekeeper, lying in wait close to a decoy hen harrier on a grouse moor in the Peak District National Park, back in 2016 (see here). The footage was so disturbing, and the public reaction so strong, it prompted the National […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2Wkr3I5 via IFTTT

Some of you may remember the footage of an armed man, believed to be a gamekeeper, lying in wait close to a decoy hen harrier on a grouse moor in the Peak District National Park, back in 2016 (see here). The footage was so disturbing, and the public reaction so strong, it prompted the National […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/21/lying-in-wait-gamekeepers-trying-to-lure-raptors-to-within-shotgun-range-in-peak-district-national-park/

The publication of the hen harrier satellite tag paper on Tuesday (here) that provided compelling evidence to highlight, yet again, the link between grouse moors and the illegal killing of hen harriers, has resulted in a flurry of responses from various individuals and organisations. We’ll be looking at these responses in turn. Yesterday we looked […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2U0Dv1U via IFTTT

The publication of the hen harrier satellite tag paper on Tuesday (here) that provided compelling evidence to highlight, yet again, the link between grouse moors and the illegal killing of hen harriers, has resulted in a flurry of responses from various individuals and organisations. We’ll be looking at these responses in turn. Yesterday we looked […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/21/responses-to-hen-harrier-satellite-tag-paper-basc/

The publication of the hen harrier satellite tag paper yesterday (here) that provided compelling evidence to highlight, yet again, the link between grouse moors and the illegal killing of hen harriers, has resulted in a flurry of responses from various individuals and organisations. We’ll be looking at these responses in turn. To begin with, Police […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2Jnh7M6 via IFTTT

The publication of the hen harrier satellite tag paper yesterday (here) that provided compelling evidence to highlight, yet again, the link between grouse moors and the illegal killing of hen harriers, has resulted in a flurry of responses from various individuals and organisations. We’ll be looking at these responses in turn. To begin with, Police […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/20/responses-to-hen-harrier-satellite-tag-paper-supt-nick-lyall-chair-rppdg/

At long last, after years of stalling, hiding, prevaricating and obsfuscating (e.g. see here and here) and 13 years after its publicly-funded study began, Natural England’s hen harrier satellite tag data has finally been analysed and published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal. The paper is open access and can be downloaded here: Widespread illegal killing […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2HIRG55 via IFTTT

At long last, after years of stalling, hiding, prevaricating and obsfuscating (e.g. see here and here) and 13 years after its publicly-funded study began, Natural England’s hen harrier satellite tag data has finally been analysed and published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal. The paper is open access and can be downloaded here: Widespread illegal killing […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/19/at-least-72-satellite-tagged-hen-harriers-presumed-illegally-killed-on-grouse-moors/

Duncan Orr-Ewing, Head of Species and Land Management at RSPB Scotland, has written a blog discussing the state of raptor conservation in Scotland, how certain species are still suffering due to the ongoing illegal killing associated with land managed for driven grouse shooting, and how the Scottish Government needs to bring about significant change. Duncan’s […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/19/effective-regulation-required-for-excesses-of-driven-grouse-shooting-in-scotland/

Duncan Orr-Ewing, Head of Species and Land Management at RSPB Scotland, has written a blog discussing the state of raptor conservation in Scotland, how certain species are still suffering due to the ongoing illegal killing associated with land managed for driven grouse shooting, and how the Scottish Government needs to bring about significant change. Duncan’s […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2FlV8Bk via IFTTT

Last week we learned that Natural England’s decision to licence hen harrier brood meddling had been ruled lawful by Mrs Justice Lang at London’s High Court (see here) following a judicial review instigated by Mark Avery and the RSPB. Today – some excellent news – Mark Avery has decided to appeal that ruling (see here […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/19/mark-avery-appeals-hen-harrier-brood-meddling-ruling/

Last week we learned that Natural England’s decision to licence hen harrier brood meddling had been ruled lawful by Mrs Justice Lang at London’s High Court (see here) following a judicial review instigated by Mark Avery and the RSPB. Today – some excellent news – Mark Avery has decided to appeal that ruling (see here […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2JwTiSm via IFTTT

At the weekend, the Revive coalition for grouse moor reform issued the following press release: CAMPAIGN GROUP CALLS FOR URGENT ACTION TO END MUIRBURN ON GROUSE MOORS A campaign group has released new footage showing parts of the Cairngorms, an area which has a high density of peat, quite literally on fire, as gamekeepers burn […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2Hr5KRJ via IFTTT

At the weekend, the Revive coalition for grouse moor reform issued the following press release: CAMPAIGN GROUP CALLS FOR URGENT ACTION TO END MUIRBURN ON GROUSE MOORS A campaign group has released new footage showing parts of the Cairngorms, an area which has a high density of peat, quite literally on fire, as gamekeepers burn […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/18/liar-liar-your-grouse-moors-on-fire/

It’s really generous of the Shooting Times to provide supporting evidence for Wild Justice’s first legal challenge, announced two days ago. Wild Justice’s first case challenges the casual killing of birds such as Jackdaws and Rooks under a series of General Licences (if you’re unfamiliar with General Licences, Mark Avery has written a useful blog […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/17/shooting-times-provides-supportive-evidence-for-wild-justice-legal-challenge/

It’s really generous of the Shooting Times to provide supporting evidence for Wild Justice’s first legal challenge, announced two days ago. Wild Justice’s first case challenges the casual killing of birds under a series of General Licences (if you’re unfamiliar with General Licences, Mark Avery has written a useful blog today), such as Jackdaws and […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2HJ3a8G via IFTTT

The non-profit company Wild Justice launched last month with the intention of taking legal action, on behalf of wildlife, against public bodies where they are failing to protect species and/or habitats. Wild Justice’s first case has just been announced and it is a legal challenge against the casual killing of birds permitted under Natural England’s […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2F34O2i via IFTTT

The non-profit company Wild Justice launched last month with the intention of taking legal action, on behalf of wildlife, against public bodies where they are failing to protect species and/or habitats. Wild Justice’s first case has just been announced and it is a legal challenge against the casual killing of birds permitted under Natural England’s […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/15/wild-justice-launches-its-first-legal-challenge/

Mrs Justice Lang has today handed down her ruling on the lawfulness of Natural England’s decision to issue a hen harrier brood meddling licence, after a judicial review was brought by Mark Avery and the RSPB (see here). She has judged the brood meddling licence to be lawful as it has been issued for ‘research’ […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2JfP7dt via IFTTT

Mrs Justice Lang has today handed down her ruling on the lawfulness of Natural England’s decision to issue a hen harrier brood meddling licence, after a judicial review was brought by Mark Avery and the RSPB (see here). She has judged the brood meddling licence to be lawful as it has been issued for ‘research’ […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/15/high-court-rules-decision-to-licence-hen-harrier-brood-meddling-was-lawful/

The Scotsman has published a feature article today by Robbie Marsland, Director of the League Against Cruel Sports Scotland and a partner in the Revive Coalition for grouse moor reform, outlining why grouse shooting is bad for the Scottish countryside. You can read the article at The Scotsman here and we’ve reproduced the text below […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/15/why-grouse-shooting-is-bad-for-the-scottish-countryside-by-robbie-marsland/

The Scotsman has published a feature article today by Robbie Marsland, Director of the League Against Cruel Sports Scotland and a partner in the Revive Coalition for grouse moor reform, outlining why grouse shooting is bad for the Scottish countryside. You can read the article at The Scotsman here and we’ve reproduced the text below […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2Jez1Re via IFTTT

A year ago in March 2018, a dead raven was found on a grouse moor in the Peak District National Park. The member of the public who found it, Bob Berzins, was savvy enough to call the RSPB Investigations Team, who collected the corpse. [Dead raven, photo by Bob Berzins] Given the location, and the […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/14/poisoned-raven-found-on-peak-district-grouse-moor-natural-england-police-fail-to-investigate/

A year ago in March 2018, a dead raven was found on a grouse moor in the Peak District National Park. The member of the public who found it, Bob Berzins, was savvy enough to call the RSPB Investigations Team, who collected the corpse. [Dead raven, photo by Bob Berzins] Given the location, and the […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2O5AKa6 via IFTTT

This is a fantastic opportunity to have a real impact on the frontline of raptor conservation in one of the country’s persecution hotspots, the driven grouse moors in the Dark Peak area of the Peak District National Park.. The Upland Skies project appears to be the conservation world’s alternative to the useless pseudo-partnership known as […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/14/job-opportunity-empowering-communities-to-protect-raptors-in-peak-district-national-park/

This is a fantastic opportunity to have a real impact on the frontline of raptor conservation in one of the country’s persecution hotspots, the driven grouse moors in the Dark Peak area of the Peak District National Park.. The Upland Skies project appears to be the conservation world’s alternative to the useless pseudo-partnership known as […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2Cjthj3 via IFTTT

Last month we blogged about conflicting approaches to the proposed reintroduction of golden eagles to Wales (see here). One group (Eagle Reintroduction Wales Project, ERW) being led by researchers at Cardiff University is part-way through conducting a careful scoping exercise to properly consider all the factors that need to be addressed before permission for a […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/14/more-on-proposed-reintroduction-of-golden-eagles-to-wales/

Last month we blogged about conflicting approaches to the proposed reintroduction of golden eagles to Wales (see here). One group (Eagle Reintroduction Wales Project, ERW) being led by researchers at Cardiff University is part-way through conducting a careful scoping exercise to properly consider all the factors that need to be addressed before permission for a […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2Jbl9r2 via IFTTT

Excellent news! Highly-regarded environmentalist Tony Juniper has finally been appointed as the new Chair of Natural England and he’ll begin on 23 April 2019. [Tony Juniper, photographer unknown] Environment Secretary Michael Gove confirmed Tony’s appointment yesterday with this press statement. It comes after a long recruitment process, including some vacuous questioning from two parliamentary committees […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2T2tPPV via IFTTT

Excellent news! Highly-regarded environmentalist Tony Juniper has finally been appointed as the new Chair of Natural England and he’ll begin on 23 April 2019. [Tony Juniper, photographer unknown] Environment Secretary Michael Gove confirmed Tony’s appointment yesterday with this press statement. It comes after a long recruitment process, including some vacuous questioning from two parliamentary committees […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/13/tony-juniper-appointed-chair-natural-england-from-23-april/

At the end of February 2019, the RSPB announced the suspicious disappearance of a satellite-tagged hen harrier called Vulcan who had vanished in January 2019 in an area heavily managed for gamebird shooting in Wiltshire (see here). [Hen harrier Vulcan, photo by RSPB] The suspicious disappearance of any satellite-tagged hen harrier in the UK is […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2Jbrdj5 via IFTTT

At the end of February 2019, the RSPB announced the suspicious disappearance of a satellite-tagged hen harrier called Vulcan who had vanished in January 2019 in an area heavily managed for gamebird shooting in Wiltshire (see here). [Hen harrier Vulcan, photo by RSPB] The suspicious disappearance of any satellite-tagged hen harrier in the UK is […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/12/gamekeepers-rep-suggests-disappearance-of-hen-harrier-vulcan-was-set-up-by-rspb/

Following the publication last week of a number of reports on the socio-economic and biodiversity impacts of driven grouse shooting in Scotland (see here), a number of news articles are now appearing. The National published the following article yesterday: GROUSE shooting in Scotland could be negatively affecting Scotland’s tourist industry, according to a new report. Populations of […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2J7XWG6 via IFTTT

Following the publication last week of a number of reports on the socio-economic and biodiversity impacts of driven grouse shooting in Scotland (see here), a number of news articles are now appearing. The National published the following article yesterday: GROUSE shooting in Scotland could be negatively affecting Scotland’s tourist industry, according to a new report. Populations of […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/12/grouse-shooting-could-be-negatively-affecting-scotlands-tourist-industry/

Natural England has been planning a so-called ‘reintroduction’ of hen harriers to southern England since 2016, as part of DEFRA’s ludicrous Hen Harrier Action Plan. We’ve blogged about this ‘reintroduction’ for three years (see links at the foot of this blog) and its recently been in the news again as a young satellite-tagged hen harrier […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2TCJgCV via IFTTT

Natural England has been planning a so-called ‘reintroduction’ of hen harriers to southern England since 2016, as part of DEFRA’s ludicrous Hen Harrier Action Plan. We’ve blogged about this ‘reintroduction’ for three years (see links at the foot of this blog) and its recently been in the news again as a young satellite-tagged hen harrier […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/10/hen-harrier-reintroduction-to-southern-england-natural-england-suggests-persecution-not-an-issue/

Revive, the coalition for grouse moor reform held its first ever fringe event at a party political conference yesterday, at the Scottish Labour conference in Dundee. The event was chaired by Claudia Beamish MSP and three speakers from Revive joined the panel (Dr Ruth Tingay of RPUK, Max Wiszniewski, Revive Campaign Manager, and Dr Craig […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/09/eagles-are-being-slaughtered-as-part-of-serious-organised-crime/

Revive, the coalition for grouse moor reform held its first ever fringe event at a party political conference yesterday, at the Scottish Labour conference in Dundee. The event was chaired by Claudia Beamish MSP and three speakers from Revive joined the panel (Dr Ruth Tingay of RPUK, Max Wiszniewski, Revive Campaign Manager, and Dr Craig […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2TChqqs via IFTTT

Revive, the coalition for grouse moor reform, is hosting a fringe event at the Scottish Labour conference tomorrow: A fantastic opportunity for bringing illegal raptor persecution and the urgent need for grouse moor reform to the attention of politicians and party members and supporters. Many thanks to Claudia Beamish MSP for hosting this fringe event. […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/07/scottish-labour-conference-raptor-persecution-and-grouse-moor-reform/

Revive, the coalition for grouse moor reform, is hosting a fringe event at the Scottish Labour conference tomorrow: A fantastic opportunity for bringing illegal raptor persecution and the urgent need for grouse moor reform to the attention of politicians and party members and supporters. Many thanks to Claudia Beamish MSP for hosting this fringe event. […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2VLgMV1 via IFTTT

An injured buzzard was found on Ryton flood bank in North Yorkshire last week. The bird was still alive but unable to fly – its broken humerus was sticking through the skin (see the x-ray below) and the wound site was infected. Unfortunately the bird had to be euthanised. If anyone has any information about […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/05/buzzard-found-with-shotgun-injuries-at-ryton-north-yorkshire/

An injured buzzard was found on Ryton flood bank in North Yorkshire last week. The bird was still alive but unable to fly – its broken humerus was sticking through the skin (see the x-ray below) and the wound site was infected. Unfortunately the bird had to be euthanised. If anyone has any information about […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2XC0YFA via IFTTT

Remember back in May 2017 when Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham commissioned the Werritty Review to examine the environmental impact of grouse moor management and to make recommendations for how the industry might be regulated (see here)? Part of that announcement also included a commitment to commission additional research in to the costs and benefits of […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2SInZ6f via IFTTT

Remember back in May 2017 when Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham commissioned the Werritty Review to examine the environmental impact of grouse moor management and to make recommendations for how the industry might be regulated (see here)? Part of that announcement also included a commitment to commission additional research in to the costs and benefits of […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/05/new-report-published-socio-economic-biodiversity-impacts-of-driven-grouse-moors-in-scotland/

If you’re new to this blog and you’ve ever wondered what happens to satellite tagged hen harriers that suddenly ‘disappear’ in suspicious circumstances on driven grouse moors in Yorkshire (and elsewhere!), the latest video from the RSPB’s investigations team might just provide a clue. Just a little teeny tiny one. The video was filmed by […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/04/why-did-this-gunman-2-dogs-visit-this-hen-harrier-roost-site-on-this-yorkshire-grouse-moor/

If you’re new to this blog and you’ve ever wondered what happens to satellite tagged hen harriers that suddenly ‘disappear’ in suspicious circumstances on driven grouse moors in Yorkshire (and elsewhere!), the latest video from the RSPB’s investigations team might just provide a clue. Just a little teeny tiny one. The video was filmed by […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2Ug06EM via IFTTT

The Scottish Raptor Study Group (SRSG) held its annual conference last weekend – a day of fascinating presentations from a series of expert speakers on the latest developments in the field of raptor research and conservation, and a chance for SRSG members from across Scotland to catch up with one another. This year the SRSG […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/04/vip-guests-attend-scottish-raptor-study-group-conference/

The Scottish Raptor Study Group (SRSG) held its annual conference last weekend – a day of fascinating presentations from a series of expert speakers on the latest developments in the field of raptor research and conservation, and a chance for SRSG members from across Scotland to catch up with one another. This year the SRSG […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2tLZ9Zf via IFTTT

This blog turns nine years old today! We’ve come a long way, as the number of blog views approaches five million, but we’ve barely scratched the surface. Thank you to everyone who contributes and supports this effort – it is much appreciated. Advertisements from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2NFZZ2D via IFTTT

This blog turns nine years old today! We’ve come a long way, as the number of blog views approaches five million, but we’ve barely scratched the surface. Thank you to everyone who contributes and supports this effort – it is much appreciated. Advertisements RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/03/our-ninth-birthday/

A kestrel has been euthanised after being found shot in North Yorkshire. It’s a kestrel, FFS. You’d have to be a gun-toting psychopath to shoot one of these. Unsurprisingly, it’s not the first kestrel to have been shot in North Yorkshire, England’s raptor-killing capital (see here here and here). [Photo by Louise Morris] News of […] from Raptor Persecution UK https://ift.tt/2XwWmAA via IFTTT

A kestrel has been euthanised after being found shot in North Yorkshire. It’s a kestrel, FFS. You’d have to be a gun-toting psychopath to shoot one of these. Unsurprisingly, it’s not the first kestrel to have been shot in North Yorkshire, England’s raptor-killing capital (see here here and here). [Photo by Louise Morris] News of […] RaptorPersecutionUK https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2019/03/01/kestrel-shot-in-north-yorkshire-2/