A 65-year-old man from south Essex has been issued with a community resolution after he attempted to sell a taxidermied eurasian goshawk on a social media ‘for sale’ site, without realising he was breaking the law.
Police acted after spotting the bird of prey, which was mounted in a glass display case alongside a thrush, listed for sale online. Norfolk Police initially identified the listing and handed the investigation over to Essex Police's rural engagement officers when it was determined that the man lived in south Essex.
A legitimate business owner unaware of licensing rules
The man, who was running a legitimate business, had never been in trouble with the law before and did not know he needed specific licences to sell or trade the goshawk. All birds of prey are strictly protected under wildlife trade regulations and are listed on Annex A, which is part of the European Union and UK Wildlife Trade Regulations.
To sell a taxidermied goshawk in the UK, a specific commercial use licence known as an Article 10 certificate must be obtained from the Animal and Plant Health Agency. Buying, selling or displaying any bird of prey for commercial sale without this document is illegal.
Police urge compliance with licensing requirements
PC Dane Wyatt, of Essex Police's rural engagement team, 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.
"I would urge anyone considering buying or selling taxidermied birds and animals to make sure they understand and comply with the relevant licensing requirements. We can, and do, take action."
Community resolution and educational outcome
The seller was issued with a community resolution, with a condition to research Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Fauna conditions for the sale of taxidermied wildlife. The bird display was seized, but will be kept by the Rural Engagement Team for use at public engagement events about wildlife conservation and wildlife crime prevention.
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."
