A North Somerset falconer Andrew McManus-Dunkley has appeared before Western Super Mare Magistrates Court charged with offences relating to the illegal display and trade in birds of prey.

McManus-Dunkley is the owner of Banwell Falconry based at Smallway, Congresbury near Bristol.

McManus-Dunkley keeps a number of birds of prey for display to the public at these premises and his previous premises at Blagdon Water Gardens, Upper Langford near Bristol. The business offers ‘Hawk Walks’, ‘Bird experiences’, hunting days and wedding displays. McManus-Dunkley also breeds and sells birds from the premises.

In August 2011 Banwell Falconry was visited by Wildlife Inspectors from the Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA) and Police Wildlife Crime Officers from Avon and Somerset Police following concerns raised about birds having been sold and used commercially in contravention of the Control of Trade in Endangered Species (Enforcement) Regulations 1997 (commonly referred to as COTES).

Birds including a Peregrine falcon, a European Buzzard, four European Eagle Owls and a Tawny Owl were found being used commercially on display to the public. Investigations later revealed that McManus-Dunkley had also sold a European Eagle Owl without the necessary European documentation and had lied to a purchaser by claiming he had this.

All birds of prey found in England are protected by legislation to ensure that they are only used commercially and legitimately using documents issued under the provisions of the European Wildlife Trade Regulations and are protected to the same extent as Tigers, Pandas, Elephants and Rhinos. The legislation aims to protect wild birds by ensuring that only captive bred birds are traded.

McManus-Dunkley was yesterday (Tuesday July 2) convicted of seven offences and was given a £7,000 fine. In addition, all the birds involved in the offences will be the subject of a forfeiture order.

Speaking after his court appearance Detective Inspector Nevin Hunter, the Head of the National Wildlife Crime Unit said: ‘The actions of this man have undermined the activities of all falconers who comply with the regulations regarding commercial use of and trade in endangered species of birds.

“Birds of prey are protected from illegal exploitation and it is vital that the Police work with our partner agencies to reassure the public that we take the matter of wildlife crime seriously. Sgt Andy Whysall from Avon and Somerset Police, the Compliance Team from AHVLA and my team have worked closely on this case and should be commended for bringing this man to court.”

Photograph: McManus-Dunkley holding one of the forfeited birds – a European Buzzard which is shown being scanned for a microchip during the AHVLA inspection on 8th August 2011

For original article see http://www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/LocalPages/NewsDetails.aspx?nsid=27634&t=1&lid=6