Keepers pledge to save birds of prey

Oct 24 2008 by Tony Henderson, The Journal

A TOTAL of 25 organisations took a stand yesterday in the North East against the killing of birds of prey. Led by Wildlife Minister Huw Irranca-Davies, they signed a pledge which said: “There should be no place in England’s future for the illegal killing of birds of prey.”

The signing took place at the National Trust’s Gibside estate near Rowlands Gill, which played a key part in the reintroduction of red kites to the region.

Among bodies signing were the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC), and the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation.

RSPB director of conservation Dr Mark Avery said: “This is a massive step in the right direction for the conservation of England’s birds of prey.

“We know what can be achieved when we get it right and the continuing recovery of red kites in England, including here in the Derwent Valley, is a great example.

“We now need to get it right for other birds of prey like the hen harrier, which is on the verge of extinction in England because of illegal killing. The only way we can stamp out the illegal killing of birds of prey is by everyone with an interest in our countryside working together.”

Only one pair of hen harriers has nested successfully in the North East in each of the past two years, with 24-hour protection from volunteers.

Dr Avery said: “There is still far too much illegal killing of birds of prey and it is terrible. There is far too much persecution, mostly in the uplands, and it has to stop.”

He said most gamekeepers and shooting organisations supported the law, but a minority gave the rest a bad name. “All of the organisations who have signed have come together to make a fresh start on this issue. We want right-thinking people who represent legitimate field sports, and the organisations who have signed are just that.”

Mr Irranca-Davies said: “Our countryside would be a poorer place without birds of prey and I want to help these magnificent birds thrive.”

BASC chief executive John Swift said: “Working together is addressing issues of strict protection and impacts on the rural economy. Strict protection under the law can only be anticipated if due regard is given to local rural communities and people’s livelihoods. By working together we can find good solutions.”

Chairman of Natural England Sir Martin Doughty said: “Conservationists and countryside managers are today standing shoulder to shoulder to help make safe our land and skies for birds of prey.

“At a time of increasing pressure on our natural environment from climate change, economic development and food production we must make space for Nature – and keep these magnificent birds in our lives.

“By working together to improve their habitat and demonstrating that harmful acts will not be tolerated, birds of prey can have a hopeful future.”

Gibside property manager Mick Wilkes said: “We are proud partners of the Northern Kites Project and are delighted that the red kite’s recovery is central to this celebration. The support the red kites have received from local communities, especially schools, has been fantastic.”

Signed up

SIGNATORIES to the pledge include: RSPB; Defra; National Trust; BASC; Natural England; RSPCA; Northumberland National Park; Hawk and Owl Trust; United Utilities; Forestry Commission; Environment Agency; National Gamekeepers Organisation; Northumberland Wildlife Trust; Northern England Raptor Forum; Gateshead Council; Government Office North East; Moorland Association; Association of North East Councils; 20 North Pennines AONB; Washington Wetland Trust; British Trust for Ornithology; Kennel Club; Sustrans; British Trust for Conservation Volunteers; North York Moors National Park.

Red letter day

WILDLIFE Minister Huw Irranca-Davies was given a taste of the Derwent Valley’s red kite culture yesterday.

Travelling by Go North East’s red kite liveried bus, he called in on Rowlands Gill Primary School.

The badge of the school, which opened 18 months ago, features a red kite, and the minister was given a mug portraying the bird.

He was entertained by pupils who performed a red kite dance, and headteacher Hannah Martin, staff and youngsters all wore red and enjoyed a red-themed lunch.

Pupils have adopted two kites, Speedy and Scarlet Flame. As the minister left, three kites took their cue and soared overhead.

The RSPB’s Dr Mark Avery said: “These children are the first generation in 150 years in the North East to grow up with red kites as part of their lives.”