Eastern Europeans have been a problem for quite a while in my area of West Pennine Moors. This year has got really bad, especially around Entwistle and even along Eagley Brook. The police have signs up along Greens Arms Road warning about prosecution over wildlife crimes. The locals have reported that poaching and lamping is going on but nothing has been done. The fly fishermen at Entwistle are having to police it themselves, and the ranger is supposed to sort them out himself. He has no chance against these organised gangs.
I seem to recall a few years ago that some foreigners (possibly immigrants from former eastern block countries) were apprehended shooting swans, etc. for the pot and that they were doing this out of ignorance rather than just plain wickedness. Nevertheless, ignorance of the law is no defence/ excuse of course and it needs to be addressed asap by the police.
__________________
Challenges are inevitable, but failure is optional.
We've had a message this afternoon from Natalie at Greenmount Bird Sanctuary informing us that 2 men have recently been seen shooting a Mute Swan and taking it away. Also, several Mallard have been shot. The police have been informed. Natalie told us this was on 2 lodges near Pilsworth Asda, which I presume are the fisheries. Just letting people aware of the situation.
