Pigeon fanciers investigated by police for Peregrine persecution

Police officers across UK swoop on homes of pigeon fanciers in bird of prey crime investigation

February 2012. A multiagency operation investigating alleged crimes against peregrine falcons was launched on Thursday 2 February 2012 across four police areas in England and Wales.

Police officers issued with search warrants, supported by staff from the RSPB, RSPCA, Natural England and the Countryside Council for Wales, raided the homes of four pigeon fanciers. The raids took place within the following constabulary areas: Avon and Somerset Police; South Wales Police; Northumbria Police and West Midlands Police.

A 47-year old man has been arrested by officers at one of the addresses in connection with evidence which has been seized during the operation.

Mark Thomas, an RSPB investigations officer, said: "The peregrine falcon is one of the UK's most heavily persecuted birds of prey, and we hope that today's operation will help further our investigations."

http://www.wildlifeextra.com/go/news/pigeon-peregrine.html

Olympic sailors sign up peregrine falcon

The British Olympic sailing team has recruited a peregrine falcon - to scare off the seagulls which keep them awake at night.

Team GB hired the bird of prey after squawking gulls began affecting their preparations for the London 2012 Games, reports the Daily Telegraph.

The bird, known as Felix, will patrol the skies above the squad's accommodation in Weymouth, Dorset, night and day.

Felix has also been charged with stopping the seagulls from leaving their droppings on vital equipment, causing it to rust.

Team manager Stephen Park said: "Seagulls are a natural part of the seaside environment but the sheer quantity of them around our accommodation block is the problem for us.

"We needed to act and act quickly. Felix will have his work cut out to ensure the sailors' sleep is not disturbed.

"But if he does his job well, his place in the team is assured."

Olympic sailors sign up peregrine falcon

The British Olympic sailing team has recruited a peregrine falcon - to scare off the seagulls which keep them awake at night.

Team GB hired the bird of prey after squawking gulls began affecting their preparations for the London 2012 Games, reports the Daily Telegraph.

The bird, known as Felix, will patrol the skies above the squad's accommodation in Weymouth, Dorset, night and day.

Felix has also been charged with stopping the seagulls from leaving their droppings on vital equipment, causing it to rust.

Team manager Stephen Park said: "Seagulls are a natural part of the seaside environment but the sheer quantity of them around our accommodation block is the problem for us.

"We needed to act and act quickly. Felix will have his work cut out to ensure the sailors' sleep is not disturbed.

"But if he does his job well, his place in the team is assured."