Predator cull to protect curlew chicks angers RSPB members

RSPB supporters are cancelling their membership after learning of a Uk-wide trial cull of foxes and crows.

The cull is an attempt to reduce predation of the endangered curlew.

Explaining her decision to cancel her membership, former RSPB member Alexandra Williams said: “I cannot support an organisation that is involved in the killing of wildlife, when there are other ways this can be managed that do not involve the death of animals.”

Julian Hughes, head of public affairs for RSPB Cymru, said: “We need to conduct this trial to see whether controlling the population is a necessary part of the solution.”

GWCT research has shown that curlew numbers have increased by a crucial 14 per cent on moorland where predators are controlled.

Andrew Gilruth, director of communications at the GWCT, commented: “It is right that we start protecting curlew young but how to best achieve this in practice is always challenging.

“The RSPB must be congratulated for beginning to explain all this to its members.” The GWCT has raised enough money to buy more than 180 sea-trout tags, which give vital information on why the species is struggling.

It is estimated that sea trout have declined by 70 per cent since the 1970s. The GWCT is hoping to buy 300 tags, at £300 each, for the project, which is co-funded by the EU, which covers 69 per cent of the overall cost.

Dylan Roberts, head of fisheries at GWCT, said: “We are only just halfway to our target, If you can support us, please do.”

Donations can be made at po.st/gwctseatrout.

Curlew have a better chance when foxes and crows are controlled