Persecution of wild birds in the UK

It is shocking to many people that persecution of some of our most iconic bird species continues today and remains a real threat to their survival. In Homecoming I discuss the role of egg collecting in hastening the demise of the chough in Cornwall. Sadly, although it has been illegal to take the eggs of most wild birds since 1954 (and since 1981 to possess any wild birds' eggs taken since 1954) this issue is still a very real one. According to the RSPB, the breeds currently at particular risk from egg collecting include black-necked and Slavonian grebes, ospreys, white-tailed sea eagles, red kites and red-necked phalaropes. Egg collecting can become an all-consuming obsession and even the risk of up to six months in prison is not enough to dissuade the most determined egg thieves.
The systematic persecution of birds of prey also continues to be a huge problem, even though they have been protected for 50 years or more. It is particularly associated with management of land for shooting, in order to protect game birds. As the persecution - which includes trapping, poisoning, nest destruction and shooting - mostly occurs on private land in the uplands it generally goes unnoticed. Research shows that this illegal killing is having a major impact on populations of rare birds of prey - for example, golden eagles and hen harriers are absent from much suitable habitat in areas where moors are managed for grouse shooting. In 2009, bird of prey persecution was recognised by the government as one of the six top UK Wildlife Crime Priorities and it is hoped that there will be increased enforcement and penalties for those who threaten the future of these magnificent species.