WILDLIFE CRIME

What is wildlife crime?

People buying, selling, harming or disturbing wild animals or plants that are protected by law. 

Examples include:

• Poaching of game, venison and fish.
• Disturbing, injuring or killing bats, and damaging or obstructing their roosts
• Taking protected plants from the countryside.
• Violence against badgers, disturbing a badger sett.
• Poisoning of animals, such as birds; or taking their eggs.
• Illegally trading in endangered species.
• Smuggling protected species (e.g. tortoises, ivory, …)

Why stopping wildlife crime is important?

• It can be linked to other serious crimes like theft, burglary, drugs, money laundering and firearms offences.
• It reduces the number of rare animals and plants, pushing them closer to extinction. 

How can you help?

If you witness a suspected wildlife crime in action call 999 and ask for the police.

For all other enquires including information about wildlife crime, you can contact:

• Kirklees Wildlife Crime Officer –   DC 1883 Bryan Butterworth – 01484 436565 (or 101 and leave a message)
• Valleys NPT - 01484 436855
• Crime stoppers – 0800 555111 

If possible give information on:

• What is happening
• The exact location (a map reference or local landmark can be useful)
• The date and time of the incident.
• Who is involved (e.g. number of people, clothing, tools being carried or any dogs)
• The make colour and registration number of any vehicle.
• If it is safe to do so take photos.
• Remember to ask for an incident log number.