REPORT IT!

What is wildlife crime?

The illegal destruction and theft of animals, plants and habitats both in the countryside and urban areas.

What should I be looking for?

• Dead animals including birds, in particular those found in suspicious circumstances.
• Suspicious vehicles
• People you are unfamiliar with in your local area. Often offenders travel distances to commit crimes.

The Do’s

• Do report – even if you are not sure, report the incident. Evidence of wildlife crime is not always obvious.
• Do take a note of the date time and weather conditions.
• Do identify a map reference or accurate description of both the incident scene and location from where you witnessed the incident.
• Do take a description of the person/s involved including gender, age, height and clothing etc.
• Do make a note of vehicle registration numbers, make, model and colour that may be involved.
• Do identify other witnesses and obtain their name and contact details.
• Do photograph or video the scene or make a rough sketch.
• Do cover up any suspected baits or victims that may have been poisoned to prevent any person or other animal coming into contact.
• Do remove any discarded fishing line if you think this could present a hazard to wildlife, to prevent animals becoming tangled in it.

The Don’ts

• Do not disturb the scene by moving items.
• Never approach suspects or intervene if you suspect someone is committing a wildlife crime, putting yourself in danger.

Who should I report to?

Phone the police on 101.

Click here to download this page in PDF format
(with nice animal photos  🙂 )