Derbyshire Police charge man with theft of peregrine falcon eggs in Peak District

A peregrine falcon. (Photo: Yuri Cortez/AFP via Getty Images)

John Fenton, of Bridgemont, Whaley Bridge, was charged with the offence following an investigation by the Derbyshire rural crime team and supported by the RSPB.

The 60-year-old is now expected to appear before magistrates at Chesterfield Justice Centre in February next year.

Detective Constable Paul Flint, of the Derbyshire rural crime team, said: “We take all reports of wildlife crime seriously and will seek to take action against offenders.

“This is a senseless crime and will not be tolerated. We would like to thank the RSPB for their support throughout.”

The quiet conditions of the spring lockdown provided an opportune moment for egg thieves in the Peak District, despite conservations keeping nests under surveillance.

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The threat to the falcons comes from those who wish to eliminate a predator from land used to shoot game birds, and from a wider trade in “black market” birds of prey used for racing.

Prized for their speed and strength, young female peregrine falcons can be sold for around £8,000 to buyers in Britain and overseas.

With an estimated UK breeding population of just 1,500 pairs, peregrines are a Schedule 1 listed species of The Wildlife and Countryside Act.

Criminal offences in respect of a single bird, nest or egg could incur an unlimited fine, up to six months imprisonment or both.

Commenting on the police’s decision to charge the suspect, Peak District National Park chief executive Sarah Fowler said: “The peregrine falcon is one of the most iconic species we are fortunate enough to have make a home in our national park, and crimes against these birds or any wildlife has no place in the Peak District.

"It is clear this case would not have resulted in charges without the dedication and perseverance of a number of people over many weeks and months.”

She added: “I hope these charges will send a clear message to anyone considering committing offences in our area that our eyes and ears out there. The processes remain in place to see justice brought on those responsible.”

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