Distressing of wild birds

At this time of year wild birds are busy building their nests and some are even already sitting on clutches of eggs. With such an early start to the breeding season this year due to a spell of good weather the breeding season is going to be a long and hopefully fruitful one for our wild bird population.

With access to the countryside and local parks and lakes being used more for day trips by holidaymakers and recreational use by local people it is not a surprise that the police are receiving calls from members of the public reporting incidents involving wild birds.

Over the last three weeks, Dyfed Powys Police have dealt with reports of children throwing broken glass at ducks on the river Severn at Newtown to seagulls being shot at with catapults by children in Llanelli. Such behaviour is not only anti-social to those who witness it but it is also cruelty towards the animals and a wildlife crime.

Sergeant Matthew Howells from Dyfed Powys Police, who is seconded to the Countryside Council for Wales, said, “Spring is here and with the summer months ahead more and more people are going to be accessing the countryside and visiting their local lakes and parks. The majority of people do so to enjoy what is there but unfortunately there are those who seem to think it is ok to behave in a manner that ends up injuring and even killing the wild animals. What might start out as a bit of fun between friends trying to chase after and scare birds can end up in birds being injured and dying. Unbeknown to those involved the injured birds may not be able to return to their nests to feed their young resulting in several chicks perishing needlessly.

“Wild birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act so I would urge people to consider their own actions and the actions of others in their company. If anyone witnesses a wildlife crime they can report it to the police using the 101 number for non-emergency calls. If they are within a recognised park (town, nature reserve, National Park etc), then bring it to the attention of any wardens or rangers in the vicinity.

“If anyone finds themselves at a loose end during the weekend and holiday season, rather than victimise wildlife use your time to get involved with local wildlife organisations. Search the Internet to see what is available in your locality; there are plenty of organisations looking for extra help at anytime of the year.”