‘Help us halt wildlife killers’
CONSERVATION GROUP CALLS FOR ASSISTANCE FROM MOORS WALKERS
WALKERS and ramblers on moors above the Holme Valley are being encouraged to report suspected wildlife persecution.
A tawny owl was shot dead on Wessenden Head and Digley Moor at Holmfirth in September. The bird of prey was discovered with shotgun wounds inflicted at close range before it was stuffed into a wall.
Jaw-like traps had also been set to eradicate native stoats and weasels, with one containing the decomposing remains of a targeted wild animal, said conservation group Ban Bloodsports on Yorkshire’s Moors (BBYM).
The group wants action and spokesman Luke Steele said: “Walkers are in a unique position to help protect wildlife on York- shire Water’s moors where suspected persecution is encountered.
“This may include finding injured animals in traps or snares, birds of prey which have been shot or individuals simply acting suspiciously.
“We urge those who visit Yorkshire Water’s moorland to familiarise themselves with the signs of wildlife persecution, then come forward with any suspected incidents.
“It’s a grim reality that wildlife is being wiped out by trap, snare and gun on some of the region’s most popular moorlands to boost red grouse numbers for shooting.”
An interactive map showing locations of traps and snares on the utility company’s moorland has been published by BBYM to warn visitors of their whereabouts.
The wildlife organisation has also released a practical guide detailing how to detect and report wildlife persecution. Any suspected wildlife persecution can be reported to Ban Bloodsports on Yorkshire’s Moors at www. stoptheshoot.com/contact-us/