New figures obtained through a Freedom Of Information request reveal that more than 2000 red listed birds, including 1,589 Starlings, have been culled since 2014 with the blessing of NRW (Natural Resources Wales), the Welsh Government sponsored nature regulator.
The data shows that 193 bird kill licences were issued between 2014 and 2018, including several to kill Starlings, which are on the RSPB's red list and are among the most exterminated species in the country. NRW's official figures confirm that more than 500 Herring Gulls, another red listed bird, have also been killed across Wales in the past five years. The birds, both of whose populations are in severe decline, are classified by the RSPB as being of 'conservation concern'. It is very worrying that these threatened species have been killed in such large numbers with the approval of the Welsh government. So why is Natural Resources Wales officially sanctioning the lethal control of legally protected species that are already in rapid population decline? Well, reasons for the Starling culls are believed to include the prevention of damage to cattle feed and to maintain air safety, and in the case of the Gulls to ensure 'public health and safety' at landfill sites. Other birds killed under NRW's licences included Amber Listed Lesser Black Backed Gulls, Red Listed House Sparrows, widely persecuted Cormorants and legally protected Ravens. All that said, the numbers of licences issued by NRW is significantly less than those issued across the border by Natural England, who in the same period of time, have granted thousands of licences affecting red and amber listed species, and whose reputation as killers of wildlife has left many questioning the very future of that agency.
3 Comments
Peter Gates
24/5/2019 06:44:17 pm
Another reason to stop aircraft traffic. Appalling slaughter.
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Sue Allen
25/5/2019 09:55:33 am
Stop this slaughter now !
Reply
Serena Johnson
30/5/2019 05:59:51 pm
After the recognized decline in house sparrows and starlings I have been thrilled to have a flock of 20 plus house sparrows and about ten starlings visiting my garden.
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