Stewartry Birdwatchers are set to receive a special presentation from Gavin Ross of the National Wildlife Crime Unit at their upcoming meeting. The event will take place at Balmaclellan Village Hall on Thursday, November 14 at 2.30pm. Ross will provide insights into the efforts to track down and prosecute individuals involved in the persecution of birds of prey.
Dumfries and Galloway has been identified as one of the most problematic areas in the UK for the illegal killing of birds of prey, according to a recent report by the RSPB. Over the past 15 years, there have been 1,529 confirmed incidents of wildlife crime in the UK, with 1,344 involving the illegal killing of birds of prey. Scotland alone accounts for 400 of these cases. Species such as golden eagles, goshawks, and hen harriers have been among those targeted.
Despite legal protections in place for birds of prey since 1981 under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, the persecution of these birds continues to be a significant issue. The alarming disappearance of 34 hen harriers under suspicious circumstances in 2023 reflects the ongoing threats faced by these majestic birds.
The Stewartry Birdwatchers welcome anyone interested in attending the meeting, where there will be a break for refreshments and an opportunity to engage with the speaker. In a recent talk during the Dumfries and Galloway Wildgoose Festival, Larry Griffin highlighted the population dynamics of geese in the UK, focusing on the greylag goose as an often overlooked species.
The meeting serves as an important platform to raise awareness about wildlife crimes and the urgent need to protect birds of prey in the region and beyond.
In summary, the upcoming meeting for Stewartry Birdwatchers promises to shed light on the critical issue of wildlife crime, particularly the illegal persecution of birds of prey in Dumfries and Galloway. Gavin Ross’ presentation from the National Wildlife Crime Unit will offer valuable insights into the challenges faced in protecting these magnificent species. The gathering presents an opportunity for the community to come together, learn, and advocate for the conservation of our natural heritage.