The number of migrating songbirds illegally trapped on the island of Cyprus last autumn rose by around 25%.
Each year, hundreds of thousands of Blackcaps, Garden Warblers and other migrant birds are trapped using nets and limesticks, to be eaten in the dish ambelopoulia – a banned delicacy.
The Autumn 2023 Trapping Report – based on systematic field monitoring, published in March by BirdLife Cyprus and supported by the RSPB and the Committee Against Bird Slaughter – showed that the number of songbirds killed in the survey area increased to an estimated 435,000 last autumn, up from 345,000 in 2022.
The number of songbirds killed in the survey area increased to an estimated 435,000 last autumn, up from 345,000 in 2022
“For two decades, NGOs working in partnership with the Cypriot and UK authorities have shown that criminal activity can be tackled by direct action on the ground backed up by enforcement action,” said Mark Thomas, Head of RSPB Investigations. “However, this autumn shows that more still needs to be done, particularly to tackle the organised gangs in the Republic of Cyprus.” Read more at BirdLife Cyprus.
Three songbirds affected by the illegal killings in Cyprus. Illustrations: Mike Langman (rspb-images.com)
Report bird crime
You can help stop bird crime in your local area by reporting them to RSPB Investigations. The team helps authorities by providing advice, expert witness, intelligence and investigative support, but doesn’t have any direct enforcement powers. The team prioritises crimes involving species and issues of conservation concern, so get in contact right away if you witness the following:
- Crimes against wild birds of prey, owls or ravens
- Wildlife poisoning
- Egg or chick collecting or trading
- A bird of prey who died under suspicious circumstances
- Offences against Schedule 1 birds
Please call RSPB Wildlife Enquiries at 01767 693690 or email wildlife@rspb.org.uk
Red Kite. Photo: Ben Andrew (rspb-images.com)
