A Newry-based animal welfare charity has issued a warning about the deliberate destruction of nests following the death of a starling covered in an “unknown substance.”
USPCA Wildlife Volunteer Ian responded to a report of a starling found covered in what was suspected to be insulation foam filler.
After locating the bird, Ian and the veterinarian attempted to carefully clean away the material to free its legs, beak, and eyes, and administered antibiotics and pain relief – but sadly, the starling succumbed to its injuries.
A spokesperson for the charity said: “We can only speculate as to how this starling came to be covered in insulation foam.
“It could have been accidental, though unfortunately, it also serves as a dark reminder that some individuals intentionally obstruct and destroy active nests that are perceived to be inconvenient.
“Under the Wildlife (NI) Order 1985, all wild birds, their nests, and eggs are protected during the nesting season.
“It is illegal to disturb or destroy an active nest, or obstruct a wild bird from using their nest.
“If you witness illegal nest disturbance or destruction, please report it to the PSNI on 101 and reach out to the USPCA to report injured wildlife on 028 3025 1000.”
The bird nesting season in Northern Ireland is taken to be between March 1 and August 31.
The Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime NI (PAW NI) – which brings together statutory agencies, non-statutory agencies, and interested parties with the common goal of combating wildlife crime through publicity, education, and campaigning – states that criminal activity can be “intentional, reckless, or opportunistic.”
It is an offence to kill, injure, or take any wild bird; take, damage, destroy, or disturb a nest whilst it is being built or is in use; obstruct or prevent any wild bird from using its nest; take or destroy the egg of any wild bird; disturb any wild bird whilst it is in, on, or near a nest containing eggs or young; and to disturb dependent young.
Reporting suspicious activities may not immediately lead to an arrest but can help build a picture that later leads to successful enforcement action.
