WENSUM VALLEY BIRDWATCHING SOCIETY

When we were youngsters, some 50 years ago, we collected stamps and birds eggs. I still have my stamps but I am happy to report that my egg collection has long gone. Which is just as well after hearing Nicholas Crampton, a lawyer from the Crown Prosecution Service, who gave  a talk on Fighting Wildlife Crime. Nicholas, who has ten years experience of prosecuting wildlife crime, outlined the various acts which have been introduced for the protection of wildlife starting as far back as 1822. He listed a range of threatened species which come under the act such as Badgers, Bats, Raptors and also plants, such as Bluebells and Snowdrops. Penalties for wildlife crime have become more severe and a recent case of a local man, who received a 6½ year jail sentence for trafficking in endangered birds of prey, was given as an example. Nicholas also spoke about protection laws in the Mediterranean particularly Malta and Cyprus where he felt that steady progress was being made. An interesting and reassuring talk.

The Wensum Valley Project, established in 1988 to conserve wildlife, were very supportive of us when we formed our society. They have now decided to become a charitable trust to take over the work of the Wensum Valley project and would welcome anyone with an interest in the Wensum Valley to help launch this exciting new start for the trust. More information can be found on www.wensumvalleyproject.org.uk .

Our outdoor meeting in May is Sunday 6^th  -  the dreaded Dawn Chorus. Meet at Sparham Pools car park at the magical time of 4.30 a.m. All are welcome, bacon butties at 8.30 for those who last the course.

Next indoor meeting is Thursday May 17^th, starting at 7.30 at Weston Longville Village  Hall. Steve Cale will give a talk entitled ‘Ethiopia’.  All are welcome. Non-members £2, or free if you join.

Colin Wright:   01603 740548    e-mail:  admin@wvbs.co.uk