Neighbourhood Officers across Devon and Cornwall are taking part in Operation Owl this weekend which is a national campaign to raise awareness of the illegal killing of birds of prey.

This can take the form of shooting, poisoning or trapping; on occasion it can also be linked to the preservation of other interests such as game species or pigeons.

Despite this, species such as golden eagles, peregrine falcons, buzzards, red kites, hen harriers, and more are shot, poisoned, and illegally trapped, as well as having their nests disturbed.

Operation Owl is a national initiative to help stop this practice and bring offenders to justice.

Inspector Andrew Tomlinson, Force Wildlife Crime Coordinator, said: ’Fortunately such offences are rare in our area, but we are warning the public that these are protected species and killing them is a criminal offence which the police will investigate. Officers across the force will be paying particular attention to rural locations over the weekend and would be happy to speak to anyone who is concerned about suspicious activity.

It is against the law to intentionally kill, injure, or take wild birds and offences can carry a prison sentence of up to six months.’

If you have any information please contact [email protected] or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.