Taxidermized bird of prey seized by police after being listed on social media – Southend Echo

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A social-media listing has led to action by Essex Police after officers uncovered an item being offered for sale in south Essex.
The investigation centred on a display involving a protected bird of prey, with police now using the seized item to help educate the public about wildlife conservation.
Essex Police said its Rural Engagement Team seized a taxidermied Eurasian goshawk mounted in a glass display case alongside a thrush.
The listing was first spotted on a social-media sales site by an officer from Norfolk Police’s Rural Crime Team, before it was established that the seller lived in south Essex.
The force said the 65-year-old man was operating a legitimate business but had not realised a specific licence was required to sell or trade the bird.
PC Dane Wyatt, the investigating officer, said: “Wild birds are an important part of our natural heritage and the licensing system plays a vital role in protecting them.
“ It helps to prevent illegal wildlife crime, supports responsible trade and ensures there is a clear and lawful record of where specimens have come from.
“Following the law is an important way of helping to safeguard our wildlife for future generations.”
The man was issued with a community resolution, which is an informal, voluntary and non-statutory way police can deal with an offence.
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As part of the outcome, he must research CITES rules covering the sale of taxidermied wildlife.
The display has been retained by Essex Police’s Rural Engagement Team and will be used at public engagement events to raise awareness of wildlife conservation.
PC Wyatt added: “The man had never been in trouble with the law before and didn’t know what licences are needed for selling taxidermied items.
“We want to make sure he is properly educated to understand it’s an offence to sell or trade taxidermied birds without the appropriate licences, so he doesn’t repeat his mistake.”
Under UK wildlife trade regulations, selling a taxidermied goshawk requires an Article 10 commercial-use certificate from the Animal and Plant Health Agency.
Birds of prey are protected, and buying, selling or displaying one for commercial sale without the correct documentation is illegal.
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