Police Launch Spring Hunt for Egg Thieves and Nest Vandals
Protect Our Wild Birds This Breeding Season
As spring rolls in, police are urging the public to keep an eye out for anyone messing with wild bird nests, harming birds, or stealing eggs. This illegal activity has been banned for decades, but alarmingly, it still happens—especially targeting rare breeding birds.
Operation Easter Cracks Down on Wildlife Crime
The National Wildlife Crime Unit is spearheading Operation Easter, a UK-wide effort to share intelligence and crack down on offenders. Detective Inspector Tim Boulton of the Rural and Wildlife Crime Unit said,
“We have a great and varied number of birds in the county and we have identified a number of hotspot areas where crimes may be committed. Officers are working with wildlife groups and nest watch schemes to protect these vulnerable sites.”
How You Can Help Catch the Culprits
Police want you to report suspicious behaviour around bird nests. If you spot people interfering or taking eggs, try to record what you see—but never put yourself at risk. Your evidence could be crucial.
To report sightings or info on egg thieves and illegal nest disturbance, contact Staffordshire Police online at Staffordshire Police or call 101 and ask for the rural and wildlife crime officer.
Alternatively, send information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
