A New Initiative to Tackle Bird of Prey Persecution
The Yorkshire Dales National Park Management Plan 2019-24 had an objective to: “work with moorland managers and other key stakeholders to devise and implement a local approach to end illegal persecution of raptors”. As the current Management Plan draws to a close, and with limited progress having been made in achieving the objective, the National Park Authority is bringing to an end the Yorkshire Dales National Park Bird of Prey Partnership to pursue a different approach to the issue.
Current Initiatives
National Police Hen Harrier Taskforce
The police-led Hen Harrier Taskforce was launched in 2024 to tackle the ongoing illegal persecution of Hen Harriers on UK grouse moors.
The Taskforce was set up specifically in response to the ‘all time high’ level of Hen Harrier persecution crimes in 2022/2023 (at least 21 known incidents in 2022 and at least 33 known incidents in 2023). The extent of the criminality had become a major source of embarrassment for the police and for the government and they needed to be seen to be doing something.
National Wildlife Crime Strategy
A framework that outlines how the police and their partners in England and Wales work together to tackle wildlife and rural crime. The current strategy, developed by the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC), is in effect from 2022-2025. It focuses on addressing the most prevalent threats and emerging issues that significantly impact rural communities and wildlife.
The strategy aims to disrupt and target individuals and organised criminal groups who profit from illegal wildlife activities.