Friends of the Dales has launched a new initiative, Eyes on the Skies, aimed at raising awareness of raptor persecution in the Yorkshire Dales and encouraging efforts to protect vulnerable birds of prey.
The charity notes that, despite decades of legal protection, species such as hen harriers, short-eared owls and red kites continue to suffer illegal shooting, trapping and poisoning within the National Park.
Jonathan Riley, Chair of Trustees at Friends of the Dales, expressed concern that these species remain at risk in areas where wildlife should be safeguarded.
“It is appalling that the hen harrier, one of the UK’s rarest birds, continues to be shot, trapped and poisoned in our National Park, which should be a sanctuary for wildlife,”
As part of the campaign, an online talk will take place on Tuesday 27 January from 5:30pm to 7:00pm, featuring Detective Inspector Mark Harrison of the UK National Wildlife Crime Unit.
He will discuss the practical challenges involved in addressing wildlife crime in North Yorkshire and share examples of the work being done to protect threatened species. Attendance is free and spaces can be booked through the Friends of the Dales website.
Further background on the campaign is available on the Friends of the Dales YouTube channel, where conservation expert Kate Jennings outlines the history of bird crime in the region and the role of the RSPB Investigations Team in working alongside police and other agencies.
Those interested in ongoing updates about Eyes on the Skies and related events can sign up for the Friends of the Dales monthly e-newsletter via the organisation’s website.
Council approves earlier opening for McDonald's near Ilkley
Chocolate appeal launched ahead of Ilkley's Santa Float
Ilkley Round Table to collect at railway stations for Children in Need
Local care provider celebrates double win at Bradford Care Awards
Birthday card appeal for Ilkley WWII veteran as he turns 102
Ilkley businesses could benefit from new £2million electric vehicle grant scheme
Veterans selling poppies on Northern trains say support from passengers has been 'heartwarming'
Date announced for Ilkley's Macmillan Fashion Show 2027
Conveyancing firm celebrates new Ilkley office and ten years in business
Overnight A59 closures planned as Kex Gill road works reach final stages
Nominations open for 2026 Small Business Awards across Ilkley and Keighley
Call for Yorkshire Water to return to public ownership after 335 pollution incidents
66 poppies displayed in Menston to honour fallen servicemen
Dates announced for Ilkley Food and Drink Festival 2027
Two Ilkley businesses nominated for UK's Favourite Local Business award
Ilkley's first Pumpkin Festival hailed a huge success
Who will take over Alpamare? Questions remain after Flamingo Land departure
Police appeal to identify man following assault and burglary in Ilkley
Police investigate burglary and two attempted break-ins in Ilkley
Yorkshire Garden Centres raises more than £106,000 for children's hospice
