If you still in any doubt as to the true horror and scale of birds of prey persecution in the Yorkshire Dales and beyond, then we would encourage a read of the newly published RSPB Patterns of Persecution report 2026 – a species-based study of the illegal killing of birds of prey in the UK (2015-2024).
The evidence in this report points to a persistent and unequivocable link between such crimes and land managed for gamebird shooting. And its relevance to our own Eyes on the Skies campaign is also clear to see, since more than three quarters of incidents in North Yorkshire are associated with the industry.
Key facts from the report include:
- 921 confirmed incidents of bird of prey persecution were recorded in the UK from 2015-2024, involving 18 protected species. Shockingly, these figures represent only a fraction of the true number of these crimes
- 55% of all confirmed incidents (2015-2024) were associated with land managed for gamebird shooting with two thirds of individuals convicted linked to the gamebird shooting industry.
Quite succinctly, James Robinson, RSPB Chief Operating Officer says: “As this report shows, existing UK laws continue to fail to protect our magnificent birds of prey. Without a meaningful deterrent, these crimes will continue.”
To provide a meaningful deterrent and effectively challenge the illegal killing of birds of prey, the RSPB is supporting the introduction of a licensing scheme for all gamebird shooting in the UK. Under a civil burden of proof, licences could be suspended or revoked where evidence indicates bird of prey persecution has occurred on licensed land. The system would promote best practice, penalising only those who break the law while respecting the rights of responsible estates. Under this legislation, birds of prey would have the effective protection they desperately need.
Jonathan Riley, Chair of Friends of the Dales said: “We commend the RSPB for this definitive report, which further highlights the link between crimes against birds of prey and land managed for game shooting, especially in North Yorkshire, and calls for the introduction of a licensing scheme for game bird shooting estates. Responsible estates have nothing to fear from the proposed licensing, only those resisting accountability will oppose stronger regulation.
“The full report is a shocking read, and we would urge anyone who wants to see real protection for birds of prey to also support our Eyes on the Skies petition, which backs the RSPB’s campaign and also calls for further reforms, vital for deterring wildlife crime in the remote areas where it too often goes unseen and where evidence gathering is a geographical and logistical challenge.
“With the new commitment from DEFRA to explore licensing for gamebird shooting in the recently published England Land Use Framework, there is real momentum for ending these horrific crimes.”
Help to end birds of prey persecution – sign our Eyes on Skies PetitionPhoto: Male Hen Harrier by Whitfield Benson