Reporting Wildlife Crime: A Crucial Step Towards Conservation

At Wildscape Deer Management, we prioritise the ethical treatment of deer and wildlife in general. Unlawful activities such as poaching and other wildlife crimes pose significant threats to the ecological balance and biodiversity. Thus, reporting wildlife crime becomes a crucial step towards conservation and lawful management of wildlife resources.

Understanding Wildlife Crime

Wildlife crime encompasses a variety of illegal activities involving wild animals and plants. This includes poaching, illegal trade, and possession, as well as habitat destruction. These unlawful activities jeopardise the survival of many species, disrupt ecological processes, and can have broader negative impacts on communities and ecosystems.

The Importance of Reporting Wildlife Crime

  1. Conservation: Reporting wildlife crime contributes to the conservation of endangered species and the preservation of biodiversity.
  2. Law Enforcement: Timely reporting enables law enforcement agencies to take swift action against perpetrators.
  3. Community Safety: Some wildlife crimes may pose direct threats to community safety and property.
  4. Education and Awareness: Reporting incidents of wildlife crime raises awareness about the issue and educates the public on the importance of wildlife conservation.

How to Report Wildlife Crime

  1. Observe: If you witness a wildlife crime, observe the details of the incident, including the location, time, individuals involved, and any vehicles used without putting yourself at risk.
  2. Record: Document the details of the incident. Photographs or videos can be invaluable, but ensure it's safe to obtain them.
  3. Report: Contact the relevant local or national authorities to report the crime. This could include local police, wildlife agencies, or specialised wildlife crime reporting hotlines.

Contacts for Reporting Wildlife Crime

  • In England, contact the local police or the National Wildlife Crime Unit: NWCU website.
  • In Scotland, contact the local police or Scottish Natural Heritage: SNH website.
  • In Wales, contact the local police or Natural Resources Wales: NRW website.

For urgent matters, always contact your local police immediately on 999.

Stay Engaged

We encourage everyone to be vigilant and take action by reporting any suspected wildlife crimes. This collective effort plays a vital role in preserving our natural heritage and promoting a culture of respect and care for wildlife.