Illegal persecution of birds of prey: this is how Bavaria protects its birds of prey!

Illegal persecution of birds of prey: this is how Bavaria protects its birds of prey!

The secret persecution of birds of prey in Bavaria is causing a stir. Six months after the discovery of a poisoned bird of prey, it emerged that the highly effective poison carbofuran, which has been banned in the EU since 2008, was once again used as a murder weapon. This incident highlights the ongoing problems with illegal hunting of endangered species, as [br.de](https://www.br.de/nachrichten/bayern/mit-barenem-gift-wie-greifvoegel-heimlich-getoetet- Werden,UpnbcIB) reports.

Nicole Meier from the State Association for Bird and Nature Conservation (LBV) confirms that 34 animals suspected of being poisoned have been registered in the last few months alone, 14 of which have already been confirmed. Two poison baits were seized, while toxicology results are still pending in another four cases. According to experts, the number of unreported cases goes far beyond this; only about five percent of killings are actually discovered. Bettina Schröfl from the LBV Straubing-Bogen district group suspects that perpetrators often cover up their cruel acts by disposing of the doomed birds as quickly as possible.

Illegal hunting methods and motives

The endangered birds of prey, including red kites, buzzards and falcons, are strictly protected by law and killing them is a criminal offense. In addition to poisoning, common methods of illegal persecution include the use of traps or shooting the birds. The already mentioned carbofuran is often used, with which the perpetrators want to gain an advantage. ARD Mediathek highlights how perfidious methods such as the preparation of pigeons are used as poisonous bait to lure birds of prey to attract and kill.

According to nature conservation organizations and the police, the suspicion that hunters or racing pigeon breeders are behind these acts is becoming increasingly louder. These perpetrators may want to eliminate their hunting competitors or take measures to protect their pet pigeons.

Commitment to protecting birds of prey

The illegal persecution of birds of prey is not just a local challenge, but a widespread problem. NABU calls for more effective measures to prevent such acts and demands that the authorities monitor the protection of these animals more strictly. The “Düsseldorf Declaration against Illegal Hunting of Birds of Prey” was signed as early as 2005, making both politicians and hunting associations responsible. This is about year-round protection of bird of prey species without special permits. There is also a call for staff offices to be set up to combat environmental crime in every federal state in order to consistently pursue the perpetrators. NABU calls on the population to report information about illegal activities.

It is clear that tackling the gray area in which these horrific acts take place is a top priority. Close cooperation between nature conservation organizations, the police and committed citizens could be the key to solving these crimes. The responsibility does not only lie with the authorities; Every individual can also contribute to education through vigilance and reporting to ensure the survival of our native birds of prey.