Trappers push songbirds close to extinction

Some native songbirds are being driven to the point of extinction by trappers because their melodic calls make them prized pets.

Linnet Cardeulis cannabina in Yorkshire Photo: RSPB

Linnets, which are high on the list of collectors’ “wanted” wild birds, are becoming increasingly scarce in their natural farmland habitats.

Because of its attractive song, the male linnet is valued as a cage bird. Goldfinches, redpolls and bullfinches, are also prized because of their striking plumage.

Experts fear that if the black market in songbirds continues to thrive it will help push some species – particularly those already battling against habitat loss – over the edge.

Acting on a tip-off, police and RSPCA officials have recently seized nearly 70 birds in raids on three homes in Telford in the Shropshire.

They also found traps used to net wild birds, which are lured by sprinkling seed on the ground next to hedges and fields.

Seventeen goldfinches, a trap and equipment to clamp small identification rings on birds’ legs were found in one of the homes raided. At another property, about 50 birds including goldfinches, linnets and bullfinches were discovered.

Andy Robbins, a spokesman for the RSPCA, said “We carried out warrants at three addresses with West Mercia Police. Seven officers from the RSPCA, including members of our special operations unit, were involved.

“A total of 69 British birds were seized. Amongst the birds were goldfinches, bullfinches, redpolls and linnets. There were some traps seized from the addresses as well.

“Three men were interviewed under caution at their own homes.”

He said a case file would be put together and given to the RSPCA’s prosecutions department, which would decide whether to take the matter further.

“The onus is on the owner of the birds to prove they were bred in captivity,’’ he added.

Native finches, their nests and eggs are protected by law, and it is an offence to have in possession any wild bird, dead or alive. It is also against the law to use traps or similar items to kill, injure or take wild birds.

Some native species can be sold alive under The Wildlife and Countryside Act if they are bred in captivity.