Home / Crime and Justice / Bird of Prey Seized: Taxidermy Sale Sparks Licensing Warning
Bird of Prey Seized: Taxidermy Sale Sparks Licensing Warning
22 Aug
Summary
- Taxidermied goshawk advertised online was seized by police.
- Seller unaware of licensing requirements for trading wildlife.
- Seized birds will educate public on conservation and wildlife crime.
Officers are urging individuals involved in buying or selling taxidermied animals to adhere strictly to licensing regulations. This warning follows the recent seizure of a mounted Eurasian goshawk, discovered for sale on a social media platform by Norfolk Police's Rural Crime Team.
The 65-year-old seller from south Essex was unaware that a commercial use license, known as an Article 10 certificate from the Animal and Plant Health Agency, is mandatory for trading such specimens in the UK. He received a community resolution after the goshawk was confiscated by Essex Police.
Investigating officer Det Con Dane Wyatt stressed the vital role of licensing in protecting wild birds, which are a crucial part of the natural heritage. The seized birds will be retained by Essex's Rural Engagement Team to enhance public awareness regarding wildlife conservation efforts and the prevention of wildlife crime.
