Rare British raptors face continuing illegal killings despite legal safeguards
Illegal persecution of protected birds of prey persists in England and Scotland, with fresh evidence of shootings, poisonings and traps. A 2024 RSPB report reveals persistent hotspots and calls for urgent enforcement action.
A year-long undercover investigation by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) has uncovered fresh evidence that protected birds of prey in England and Scotland are still being illegally shot, trapped and poisoned, despite decades of legal protection.
The findings, released today, reveal that persecution hotspots remain concentrated in upland regions of northern England and eastern Scotland, particularly around grouse moor estates. Investigators documented 47 cases of shooting, 31 of poisoning and 28 of trapping, with many incidents occurring during the breeding season when adult birds and chicks are most vulnerable.
Key Points
- ⚠️ 120 confirmed persecution cases in 2024, including shootings, poisonings and traps
- 📍 Hotspots in northern England and eastern Scotland, linked to grouse moor estates
- 🦅 Golden eagles, hen harriers and red kites identified as primary targets
RSPB Scotland’s investigations officer, Ian Thomson, said: “These birds are not just numbers—they are living creatures facing deliberate cruelty. The evidence shows a clear pattern: where enforcement is weak, persecution thrives.” He added that many incidents go unreported due to remote locations and limited surveillance.
| Bird Species | Reported Incidents | Primary Threat |
|---|---|---|
| Golden Eagle | 18 | Poisoning |
| Hen Harrier | 22 | Shooting |
| Red Kite | 15 | |
| Merlin | 12 | Trapping |
| Buzzard | 33 | Poisoning |
In response, the RSPB has urged the UK government to strengthen penalties for wildlife crimes and increase funding for surveillance in high-risk areas. The charity also called for mandatory licensing of grouse moor estates, citing evidence that illegal activity is more likely where estates operate without oversight.
💡 Pro Tip
If you witness suspicious activity near raptor nests or moorland, report it immediately to the RSPB’s confidential hotline—even anonymous tips can lead to prosecutions.
Government sources confirmed they are reviewing the RSPB’s findings but declined to comment on potential policy changes. The Home Office’s National Wildlife Crime Unit, however, stated it has increased patrols in known hotspots and is collaborating with local police forces to tackle the issue.
- 2024 enforcement gap — Only 15% of reported persecution cases resulted in convictions last year.
- Breeding season vulnerability — 60% of documented incidents occurred between April and July.
- Regional disparities — Scotland accounted for 70% of confirmed poisoning cases, while England saw higher rates of shooting.
The RSPB’s report follows a 2023 study by the University of Aberdeen that linked illegal persecution to declining raptor populations in key upland areas. Researchers found that hen harrier numbers in grouse moor regions had dropped by 23% over five years, a trend they attribute directly to persecution.
📋 By The Numbers
- 47 — Shootings confirmed in 2024, the highest single category
- 60% — Incidents occurring during breeding season (April–July)
- 15% — Conviction rate for reported persecution cases in 2024
- 70% — Poisoning cases concentrated in Scotland
Environmental campaigners argue that voluntary measures have failed to curb the crisis. “Grouse moor estates operate with impunity because the system allows it,” said wildlife advocate Sarah Henshaw. “Licensing isn’t just about control—it’s about survival for these birds.” The RSPB has vowed to escalate lobbying efforts in Westminster, demanding legislative changes when parliament reconvenes in October.