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

Report reveals 68 confirmed incidents of raptor persecution in 2017

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

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



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



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



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

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



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

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Cold-water dip to raise funds for Vetlife

News Story 1
 The veterinary mental health charity Vetlife is inviting the veterinary community to join it for a sponsored cold-water dip.

The event will take place at Walpole Bay, Margate, on 17 May during Mental Health Awareness Week. Participants of all abilities can join in the challenge and are advised to bring a towel, a hot drink, a snack, and warm clothes to get changed into afterwards.

Those taking part are being asked to try to raise 100 each to support the work of the charity.

Details about how to take part can be found here. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Bluetongue low vector period ends

In an update to its bluetongue guidance, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has announced that the seasonal low vector period for the disease has ended.

With winter over, Defra is planning for a possible increase in cases as midges become more active. It has warned that farms along the east coast of England from Norfolk to Kent, and along the south coast from Kent to Devon, are at highest risk from infected midges blown over from northern Europe.

Since the virus was detected in England in November 2023, there have been 126 confirmed cases. The most recent case to be confirmed was on 1 March 2024.

Farmers are asked to continue to frequently monitor their livestock and ensure their animals and land are registered with the Animal and Plant Health Agency.