Spate of birds' nest disturbances prompts wildlife crime warning

Norfolk police have investigated a growing number of wild birds' nest disturbances in recent weeks - prompting warnings about the consequences of wildlife crime.

The county's rural crime team has been called to deal with "a large number of nest disturbance jobs", according to its monthly Operation Randall newsletter.

Rural crime officer PC Chris Shelley says this is "obviously disappointing when our wildlife really needs our help".

"The last month has continued in a similar vein as the previous month, with lots of calls around nesting birds and the actions of a few who are disturbing them," he adds.

"It is a criminal offence to disturb any nesting bird and all work, including hedge cutting where possible, should be avoided until after the nesting season to prevent harm."

Recent incidents included the disturbance of peregrine falcons at St Peter and St Paul's church in Cromer, where a bright green laser was shone into the nest box, forcing the mother to abandon her chicks for several hours.

A man in his 40s subsequently handed himself in to Cromer police station, apologising for what he said was a "genuine mistake".

The incident was dealt with through a "community resolution". It was agreed the laser would be destroyed and the man would make a donation to the Cromer Peregrine Project.

Meanwhile, PC Shelley says a teenager who was using an air rifle at wild birds has also been "dealt with on a local level".

"This is a concerning trend being seen across the country in urban areas, with ongoing work at a national level to tackle the issue with potential legislation changes in the future," he says.

"As a force we will always take appropriate action and deal with those involved, such incidents can also affect individuals should they wish to apply for shotgun or firearms licences in the future."