Man admits to illegally trapping wild birds

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https://www.itv.com/news/meridian/2018-11-19/man-admits-to-illegally-trapping-wild-birds/

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Some of the cages seized from the propertyPhoto: Kent Police

A man from Gravesend, who was caught illegally trapping birds, has appeared before Medway magistrates court.

Last Monday, the 39-year-old admitted possessing wild birds, using bird lime and possessing items used for trapping birds.

Officers from the Rural Task Force teamed up with the RSPCA in the summer to execute a search warrant at the man’s home.

The action, which followed information being received from the RSPB, resulted in a number of caged wild birds being seized.

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Rat glue was found on branches Credit: Kent Police

Officers also found rat glue and other bird trapping equipment.

The man was interviewed by officers and admitted he was trying to catch wild birds in his garden.

He was given a 28-day curfew order and must stay at home between 7pm and 7am and ordered to pay £300 in costs and a £85 victim surcharge.

“This is an excellent example of partnership working. The intelligence received from the RSPB allowed us to gain enough information to request a search warrant and the case built by the RSPCA resulted in the man having to admit his guilt.

“Bird trapping is not only illegal, it is incredibly cruel. We are committed to working with our partner agencies to put these criminals, who illegally trap birds for their own financial gain, before the court.”

– SERGEANT DARREN WALSHAW
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One of the cages seized from the property Credit: Kent Police

“To take a wild bird from its natural habitat and shut it inside a tiny cage is so cruel. They suffer greatly in captivity, are not used to being in cages and, sadly, often die.

‘All wild birds in England and Wales, their nests and their eggs are protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and actions may only be taken under specific licences.”

– AN RSPCA SPOKESPERSON

It is illegal under the Wildlife and Countryside Act to trap wild birds.

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