AN IMPORTANT ONE FROM WILD JUSTICE ON SSSI’S AND NATURAL ENGLAND SEEMINGLY LAPSE IN PROTECTION

Good morning, In today’s newsletter we bring you a new report, highlighting Natural England’s failure to protect some of our most important sites for wildlife. Front cover of the Unprotected Nature report, featuring a landscape with a protected area, encroached upon by development. Unprotected Nature report: click the cover above to read it. Unprotected Nature: Natural England failing to designate most important sites for nature. Two years ago we published a report on the state of Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) in England (click here). It demonstrated how SSSIs were being neglected by Natural England (NE), which was failing to assess site conditions. Two thirds (66%) of these sites hadn’t been assessed for a decade and we wanted to prevent that situation from worsening. Today’s report, featured in the Guardian and authored by researchers at the Universities of Sheffield and Oxford, reveals that NE has quietly paused its SSSI designation pipeline – that is to say that parcels of land that are home to valuable wildlife, and are deserving of having protected status, are simply not being protected by the agency with a statutory duty to do so. This failure to designate means that nationally important sites are being lost to development and many more are at risk from inappropriate building projects nearby. Of the 22 sites sitting on Natural England’s waiting list, 14 are at high risk of suffering potential damage. Headline results from the report: One potential SSSI - in Thurrock - has been lost to development while it has been sitting undesignated on the Natural England waiting list. 14 potential SSSIs (63%) in the pipeline are at high risk of suffering damage from inappropriate development within 1 km. Two sites have been sitting in the designation pipeline for more than 10 years. Ten sites have been awaiting designation for more than five years. No new sites can be added to the pipeline while it is paused, meaning that many other potential SSSIs are not even being listed. In the case of the Middlewick Ranges, a site in Essex owned by the Ministry of Defence, that clearly meets the criteria for SSSI designation, this is leading to inappropriate management for nature conservation. Wild Justice is calling for: Natural England to restart the pipeline for designating SSSIs and to add sites to its waiting list that are known to be important for wildlife. The government to provide resourcing to ensure that the work of designation can proceed quickly. The planning decision to allow development on a SSSI in Thurrock to be urgently reviewed. Click here to read the full report and accompanying press release. We’d like to thank Dr Kiera Chapman, Professor Malcolm Tait & Dr Rob Davies for producing this report. Their tenacity and observation has helped shine a spotlight on this failure by NE. We think it’s important that government agencies are held to account when it comes to protecting our wildlife. If you agree and feel able to support us with a donation, however small, you can do so by clicking here. Thank you, Wild Justice (CEO: Bob Elliot. Directors: Chris Packham and Ruth Tingay). This is the 267th Wild Justice newsletter. This email was sent to you because you subscribed to it through the Wild Justice website or through an e-action or a petition where you ticked a box. Thank you. We will only use your personal details to send you the Wild Justice newsletter. We will not give or sell your details to anyone else. You can unsubscribe at any time: there is an unsubscribe button at the foot of this email or you can reply to this email and ask us to remove you from the list (the former will happen immediately, the latter might take a few days). 124, City Road London Greater London EC1V 2NX UNITED KINGDOM Unsubscribe | Change Subscriber Options

PROTECT THE WILD HIGHLIGHT THE KILLING OF PIGEONS BY RAILWAY COMPANIES — IT’S SO CRUEL

Forwarded this email? Subscribe here for more National train companies have ordered the killing of pigeons CHARLOTTE SMITH APR 20 READ IN APP Something cruel has been uncovered. Not hidden in some distant place, not happening out of sight; but right there, in our train stations, in the spaces we pass through every day. Pigeons are being killed systematically, quietly and often, brutally. And this isn’t one rogue decision. It’s happening across the rail network. Manchester Pigeon Rehab have uncovered evidence that five train companies have ordered the killing of pigeons, despite culling being widely recognised as an ineffective long-term solution. Those companies are: ScotRail Southeastern Transport for Wales Transport for London Network Rail And now, they need your help to stop it. End the pigeon culls! What is a pigeon cull, and why should you care? A pigeon cull is exactly what it sounds like: the deliberate killing of pigeons in a specific area, usually ordered by businesses or public bodies under the guise of “population control.” But that phrase - “population control” hides the truth. Because culls are not clean. They are not quick. And they are not humane. Birds are frequently left injured, not killed outright. With their wings shattered and bodies broken, they are left to suffer in corners, under platforms, out of sight. Chicks are abandoned in nests, waiting for parents who will never return. They don’t die quickly, they slowly starve. This is not management. This is suffering. Manchester Pigeon Rehab rescue and begin treating an injured pigeon. The lie at the heart of culling If culling actually solved the problem, it would still be cruel. But it doesn’t. Remove a flock, and what happens? Space opens up. More pigeons move in. They roost, they nest, they breed. The numbers rise again. So the killing starts again - this isn’t a solution, it’s a cycle. A revolving door of violence that never addresses the real issue. Because the real issue is us. We built cities that strip away natural nesting spaces and leave waste exposed, creating unreliable food sources. We domesticated pigeons, bred them to trust us, and then abandoned them.And now we punish them for surviving in the world we created. End the pigeon culls! This is not isolated, this is systemic What Manchester Pigeon Rehab uncovered is not a one-off. It is a pattern. ScotRail, despite partnering with a leading bird protection charity, scheduled 196 pigeon shooting visits in a single year, and requested even more. Records show instructions to remove nests from active sites, including chicks. Transport for Wales scheduled at least 30 culls at a single depot in 2025, many described simply as “routine.” Transport for London has already carried out 50 culls in 2025, killing at least 237 pigeons. Network Rail has culled pigeons at multiple stations. Southeastern runs monthly shootings at depots — while describing those same spaces as “wildlife friendly.” Routine. Scheduled. Normalised. Killing as maintenance. And all of it, despite clear evidence that it doesn’t work. Manchester Pigeon Rehab rescue two babies from a cull site. End the pigeon culls! Who pigeons really are They are not “pests.” They are animals we shaped. Pigeons were once war heroes, carrying messages across battlefields, saving human lives. We bred them to be calm around us, to live alongside us. And when we no longer needed them? We left them behind. Now they live in concrete landscapes that offer little shelter, little safety, and even less compassion. And still, they endure. Until some human decides they’re “inconvenient”. This is where you come in We cannot look away from this. Not when it’s happening in plain sight. Not when we know culling doesn’t work. Not when we know it causes suffering. You have two simple, powerful ways to act: 1. Email the companies Use our tool to send a message directly to the five companies calling for an end to lethal pigeon culling. It takes minutes. It creates pressure. It matters. End the pigeon culls! 2. Support Manchester Pigeon Rehab They are doing everything they can, with limited resources, and an overwhelming need. Your donation helps them treat injured birds, feed orphaned chicks. Donate to pigeon care A small group of volunteers, standing in the gap Donate to pigeon care Manchester Pigeon Rehab see the consequences of this every single day. They are the ones picking up the broken bodies. The ones feeding orphaned chicks through the night. The ones trying to save birds who never should have suffered in the first place. Right now, they have close to 150 pigeons in their care, babies and adults, many with severe injuries. And somehow, alongside that relentless, hands-on care… MPR are fighting back. They’ve identified five train stations where lethal pigeon culling is taking place. Now they need people like you, to help. SHARE LIKE COMMENT RESTACK © 2026 Protect the Wild Protect the Wild, 71-75 Shelton Street Covent Garden, London, W2CH 9JQ Unsubscribe Start writing

FROM THE WONDERFUL HUNT SABOTEURS — TEME VALLEY CAUGHT IN THE ACT DIGGING A FOX OUT

View this email in your browser Hi, Supporter Taking One For The Teme: BHSA Backs Dig-out Hunt In a move that will surprise no one, hunting's governing body - the British Hound Sports Association (BHSA) – continues to give active support to the notorious Teme Valley Hunt. Teme Valley and Coniston hunters dig the fox from her earth. Note white terrier latched onto fox’s leg. The BHSA website is currently hosting an advert for “assistance” at the Teme Valley Hunt kennels, describing the location as being "ideally situated in the heart of fabulous hill hunting country." BHSA – actively recruiting for the Teme Valley Hunt. The Powys-based Teme Valley Hunt hit national headlines when they were caught digging out and killing a fox while on their annual visit to the Coniston Foxhounds last November. The horrendous scene was captured on film by Lake District Hunt Sab’s drone and as a direct result, around sixteen people from both the Teme Valley Hunt and Coniston Foxhounds have been arrested to date. Teme Valley and Coniston Foxhounds swarm all over the fellside. As we reported back in December 2025, the case is so disturbing that even the Countryside Alliance desperately tried to cut ties with the Teme Valley Hunt. But the fox-hunting extremists of the BHSA have no such qualms and, instead of investigating the Teme Valley, they are actively recruiting for them! The Hunt Saboteurs Association will have much more to say about high-level BHSA connections to this case in due course. If you have not already done so, please help bring down the Teme Valley, the Coniston and all other hunts by filling in the government consultation on banning so-called trail hunting. We have produced guidance to help you do this quickly, easily and effectively here. Have your say Join the Hunt Saboteurs Association! Support our vital work by becoming a member. Join The HSA Spread the word! Please share our news Share via email Facebook icon Instagram icon Twitter icon Logo Copyright (C) 2026 Hunt Saboteurs Association. All rights reserved. You were subscribed to the newsletter from Hunt Saboteurs Association. Our mailing address is: BM HSA, London, WC1N 3XX, U.K. Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe

FROM CORNWALL WILDLIFE TRUST — LETTING US KNOW WHAT IS OCCURRING

View this email in your browser SPRING EVENTS FOR WILDLIFE LOVERS We’ve put together a great range of events and opportunities to enjoy this spring and summer - whether you’re keen to learn more, explore new places, or simply get outdoors and enjoy nature. Browse all events THE STATE OF NATURE IN CORNWALL - JOIN THE CONVERSATION Chaired by the brilliant BBC Radio Cornwall presenter Julie Skentelbery, this panel discussion will ask an important question: how do we stay hopeful for nature when decline can feel inevitable? The evening will explore practical changes already making a measurable difference, alongside the policy shifts needed to secure better protection for the environment. Against a backdrop of increasing public concern about nature in Cornwall, the discussion will offer reassurance, perspective and clear reasons for hope. Just announced: we’re delighted to welcome Gillian Burke as a panellist. Join us for an evening of conversation and debate, with pasties and drinks & nibbles beforehand, and the opportunity to stay on afterwards to meet the panel and team. 🎟 Tickets are just £5 - but already selling fast. Book your place today EXPERT-LED Whale Watching Tours Tues 21 April | 9.30am - 2.30pm Falmouth Premier Marina Enjoy a 5 hour whale watching experience from Falmouth. These unique cruises offer a rare chance to experience whales, dolphins, and other incredible marine wildlife, guided by one of our marine team onboard. Looe Island: Island Life Wed 22 April | 9am - 12.30pm Looe Island This is a small-number experience offering access to our island nature reserve — ideal for wildlife & history lovers, photographers, and those interested in sustainable, off-grid living. More dates available. World Crab Day Sun 26 April | 10am - 3pm Do you know your Montagu's from your Decorator crab? Join our Marine Conservation Officer Matt Slater for a classroom-based day of learning crustacean identification for rockpool, snorkel and dive enthusiasts. Looe Island: Birds, butterflies & more Sun 26 April | 9am - 12.30pm This is a small-number experience offering access to our island nature reserve — ideal for wildlife lovers, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful morning immersed in nature. More dates available. See more events OPEN GARDENS Various Sundays, April - Sept 2pm - 5pm | Free entry for under 16s Come and celebrate 15 years of our wildlife-friendly open gardens as eight private garden open their doors this summer. Explore a garden (or all eight…) and enjoy a delicious sweet treat, discover some gardening tips, or try a creative workshop. Find out more about Open Gardens BEAVER WALKS Beaver walks at Woodland Valley Farm Weds & Thurs | April - Sept 7pm - 9pm (or 6pm - 10pm with BBQ!) Join Cornwall Wildlife Trust for a guided walk around our fantastic beaver project at Woodland Valley Farm. Events run weekly, with special BBQ evenings also on offer this summer - see our website for dates. Learn about Cornwall Beaver Project LOOE ISLAND HOLIDAYS Immerse yourself in Looe Island's nature. Unwind to the sound of lapping waves in the quaint and cosy Smuggler’s Cottage, or go back to basics in the Bell Tent. Remaining availability below. 06-09 May 09-12 OR 13 July 06-09 May | 20-23 May | 05-08 June 18-21 June | 04-07 July | 18-21 July | More dates available throughout summer. Take a look ANNUAL ERCCIS CONFERENCE Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Biological Recorders Conference 2026 Sat 09 May | 2pm - 9.30pm Penryn Campus, University of Exeter This year’s conference will explore nocturnal species, the effects of light pollution, novel survey techniques and much more through a series of fascinating talks. Final tickets Facebook icon Instagram icon LinkedIn icon YouTube icon © 2026 Cornwall Wildlife Trust. All rights reserved. Registered charity number 214929. Privacy Policy and T&Cs Our mailing address is: Cornwall Wildlife Trust Five Acres, Allet, Truro, Cornwall, TR4 9DJ Want to change how you receive these emails? You can unsubscribe from this list.

FROM PROTECT THE WILD — A CHALLENGE FOR THE READER

Forwarded this email? Subscribe here for more I have a Sunday afternoon mission for you!... ROB POWNALL APR 19 READ IN APP I have a mission for you! Since my last email on this, more than 16,000 of you have already taken action, submitting a response to the Government consultation on ending so-called “trail” hunting. In fact, as of this very second that number stands at 16,306. That’s an incredible effort in just the last 4 days! But over 240,000 people receive these emails, which means we can go much further. And let’s be honest. It’s Sunday. There’s a good chance you’ve got 15 seconds to spare. We’ve built a simple tool that lets you submit a full response in under 20 seconds. The hunting lobby will be doing everything it can to defend the indefensible. We need to show clear, overwhelming public support for ending this for good. TAKE ACTION If you oppose fox hunting, stag hunting, or hare hunting… If you’re fed up with hunts continuing to kill wildlife and disrupt communities… Please take 15 seconds and act now. Click the button below and submit your response instantly. Together, we can help bring hunting with hounds to an end, once and for all. TAKE ACTION SHARE LIKE COMMENT RESTACK © 2026 Protect the Wild Protect the Wild, 71-75 Shelton Street Covent Garden, London, W2CH 9JQ Unsubscribe Start writing

FROM PROTECT THE WILD — IT’S ALL ABOUT ILLEGAL HUNTING — THREE CHARGED & DUE AT COURT TOMORROW

Forwarded this email? Subscribe here for more Hunting news update - Three fox hunters charged and more TOM ANDERSON APR 18 ∙ GUEST POST READ IN APP Labour has finally begun its consultation on banning ‘trail hunting’, almost a year after it initially announced it. Protect the Wild has published guidance for people submitting their answers. While the consultation is going on, the government has been busy going back on their other animal welfare policies. Labour is set to backpedal on its manifesto commitment to end imports of foie gras and also won’t stop fur imports. Meanwhile, it’s been business as usual for hunt groups around the UK. The fox hunting ‘season’ has now ended, but that doesn’t mean a break for wildlife. The handful of remaining UK mink hunts are gearing up to terrorise our waterways once again, while the three operational staghound packs have been killing at an alarming rate. Three members of the Vale of Taunton and Banwell Harriers Hunt have been charged with illegal hunting. The move by Avon & Somerset Police Rural Crime Team comes after Somerset Sabs caught them on camera chasing a fox at Chilton Trinity near Bridgwater last November. Also in this update, a couple of bits of good news: A vegan hiking group happened across a hunt, and sabbed it. A new hunt sab group has been set up in Oxfordshire. Three hunters charged Ross Cordery, Wayne Greggory and James Parish of the Vale of Taunton and Banwell Harriers Hunt have been charged with hunting a wild mammal with dogs - an offence under the Hunting Act 2004. The action by Avon & Somerset Police Rural Crime Team comes after Somerset Hunt Saboteurs‘ drone caught the hunt chasing a fox at Chilton Trinity on 26 November last year. Blatant hunting at Devon’s Chilton Trinity on 26 November 2026 - this drone footage from Somerset Hunt Sabs was shown on Channel 4. The three will have their first appearance in Taunton Magistrates’ Court on 20 April. A ‘miracle’ that the fox survived Somerset Sabs described what happened on 26 November on their Facebook page: “we watched Vale of Taunton and Banwell Harriers Huntsman ‘Wingnut’ hunt his hounds around scrub then encourage hounds onto the line of the fox. By some miracle the fox made a huge leap across a ditch and evaded the hounds. But they were seconds behind and no one called them off.” The sabs told Protect the Wild: “After watching them blatantly hunt all season it’s a relief to see them finally being held accountable. Hoping for more convictions to follow.” According to Protect the Wild’s Rob Pownall: “Caught on camera, chasing a fox, and now finally facing charges, this is exactly what hunt groups are still doing across the country. The law is being ignored, and wildlife is paying the price. If this government is serious about animal welfare, it must strengthen the Hunting Act and end these loopholes once and for all, we’re glad to see the public consultation is now live and we urge people to respond.” Show Quoted Content “Caught on camera, chasing a fox, and now finally facing charges, this is exactly what hunt groups are still doing across the country. The law is being ignored, and wildlife is paying the price. If this government is serious about animal welfare, it must strengthen the Hunting Act and end these loopholes once and for all, we’re glad to see the public consultation is now live and we urge people to respond.” As the government’s consultation on banning ‘trail hunting’ takes place, hunters are still up to their old tricks. Our wildlife’s first line of defence against them is - as always - the UK’s sabs and monitors. Why not join your local sab group? Check out Protect the Wild’s Page on ‘Foxes and the Law’. If you’re able to support Somerset Hunt Sabs’ efforts please use this link. And don’t forget to fill out the government consultation on ‘trail hunting’. You can refer to Protect the Wild’s advice here. As the consultation goes on, hunts are still killing The Devon and Somerset Staghounds (DSSH), Tiverton Staghounds, Quantock Staghounds and the Beaufort Hunt have all killed again during March and April 2026. On 6 March, Wiltshire Hunt Saboteurs‘ (WHS) eye-in-the-sky caught Gloucestershire’s Beaufort Hunt killing a fox. As the Hunt searched hedgerows close to Commonwood Farm in Wiltshire, the drone captured images of the kill. Huntsman Will Bryer picked up the mangled body and handed her to a female rider who “unceremoniously” placed her in a bin-bag.] The Beaufort Hunt’s terriermen set up artificial earths and tempted foxes to take refuge there. They blocked them up on the morning of the kill to ensure that the ill-fated fox had nowhere to hide. Photo courtesy of Wiltshire Hunt Saboteurs. Police confiscate wildlife defenders’ equipment Wiltshire Police officers, rather than deal with the obvious wildlife crimes that were being committed, looked the other way as members of the Hunt pursued another fox. WHS wrote on their Substack page: “Enter PC Plum W79, he really didn’t know his arse from his elbow when it comes to drones, but he sure knew how to make a phone call and picked his moment during the next fox chase - in which a fox had been flushed from New Covert, and was in the process of being chased hell for leather by a terrier-man (or whatever the masked thugs with terriers want to be called) as the hounds were being encouraged to ‘hunt for it’, to well…decide that the ‘powers that be’ demand the drone be seized.” Show Quoted Content “Enter PC Plum W79, he really didn’t know his arse from his elbow when it comes to drones, but he sure knew how to make a phone call and picked his moment during the next fox chase - in which a fox had been flushed from New Covert, and was in the process of being chased hell for leather by a terrier-man (or whatever the masked thugs with terriers want to be called) as the hounds were being encouraged to ‘hunt for it’, to well…decide that the ‘powers that be’ demand the drone be seized.” Police seize evidence of illegal hunting from sabs. They were forced to give it back after a week-long campaign. Photo courtesy of Wiltshire Hunt Saboteurs Officers seized the equipment and evidence from the sabs. However, after a week-long pressure campaign the force was thankfully forced to return it. WHS have made a complaint to the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) about the incident. A spokesperson for the Hunt Saboteurs Association said: “Once again, prolific fox killers, the Duke of Beaufort’s Hunt, seem able to avoid police scrutiny even as wildlife crime is unfolding. This hunt, repeatedly filmed hunting and killing foxes this season alone, has been the subject of numerous police investigations. While police drag their heels, sabs are in the fields and skies doing their best to prevent wildlife crime and provide evidence to the often lackadaisical officers who attend. We will continue until a proper ban is in place and until it is properly enforced by those paid to uphold the law.” Show Quoted Content “Once again, prolific fox killers, the Duke of Beaufort’s Hunt, seem able to avoid police scrutiny even as wildlife crime is unfolding. This hunt, repeatedly filmed hunting and killing foxes this season alone, has been the subject of numerous police investigations. While police drag their heels, sabs are in the fields and skies doing their best to prevent wildlife crime and provide evidence to the often lackadaisical officers who attend. We will continue until a proper ban is in place and until it is properly enforced by those paid to uphold the law.” We recently called out the Beaufort Hunt as one of the UK’s worst hunts, in terms of the number of animals chased and killed and frequency of attacks on sabs, monitors and other members of the public. In 2022, Protect the Wild and the Hunt Investigation Team filmed the Beaufort, who are - incidentally - King Charles and Camilla’s old hunting crew, shooting their hunting hounds in the head after they were no longer deemed of use to them. Stag hunts on the rampage It’s stag hunting ‘season’ again, and England’s three remaining stag hunts have been on a killing spree over the past month. Stag hunts often avail themselves of the ‘Research and Observation’ exemption in the Hunting Act 2004. In reality, no research has ever been published, and this is yet another smokescreen for illegal hunting. A hound chasing a stag - courtesy of North Dorset Hunt Saboteurs. Stag hunts have been caught killing or chasing stags on several occasions over the last month: On 2 March, sabs from North Dorset Hunt Saboteurs (NDHS) and Mendip Hunt Saboteurs (MHS) were able to SCUPPER the Quantock Staghounds’ attempts to make a kill near Crowscombe Park Gate in Somerset. On 5 March, a stag miraculously OUTRAN the hounds and horses of the DSSH to safety near Winsford in Somerset. On 7 March, DSSH chased and killed a stag near Cheriton in Somerset. On 9 March a stag was killed by Quantock Staghounds near Hurley Farm in Crowcombe, Somerset. On 12 March a young stag - known as a pricket - managed to ESCAPE the DSSH. NDHS wrote: “What possible excuse could they have for chasing this fit up-and-coming stag? And in storm conditions too. Certainly nothing lawful. Stag hunting for sport, not an exemption in sight.” On 14 March, NDHS reported that DSSH and their quadbikes hunted and killed a stag near Molland in Devon. This wildlife crime took place as officers from both Avon & Somerset Constabulary and Devon & Cornwall police watched idly. Mendip Hunt Sabs reported that Quantock Staghounds killed a stag near the A39 on 16 March. They wrote on their Facebook page: “Eventually hitting [a] fence by the A39, the stag reached his limit and could not jump or run to escape. Our sab interrupted the hunt as they were about to shoot him, but instead of letting him go, they heartlessly chased him away just far enough from our sab that they could discharge the weapon. Seconds later, the stag was killed just a few feet from our sab.” On 19 March, Quantock Staghounds killed an exhausted stag after meeting close to Taunton Vale & Banwell Harriers kennels in Huish Champflower in Somerset. On 21 March Devon and Somerset Staghounds and Tiverton Staghounds chased a stag to exhaustion and killed him near Winsford on Exmoor. Quantock Staghounds and Tiverton Staghounds killed a stag on 23 March after meeting at Firebeacon Hill near Crowcombe in Somerset. They hunted him across the land of Forestry England and the National Trust, both of which have banned hunting on their land. On 31 March NDHS sadly reported that DSSH had misused an exemption in the Hunting Act which enables mammals to be hunted for the purpose of ‘rescue’ to ‘relieve suffering’. Horrifyingly, the hunt used this loophole in the law to hunt a disabled stag for over an hour before killing him. On 1 April South Wessex Hunt Saboteurs together with members of several other groups witnessed DSSH chasing and killing another stag in Exmoor National Park. On 2 April, NDHS reported that a member of the Quantock Staghounds, who was wearing a mask and motorcycle helmet, assaulted a sab who was trying to monitor the hunt chasing a stag, in breach of the Hunting Act. On 4 April DSSH met at Cussicombe Post. Five sab groups turned out in an attempt to stop them from killing. Sadly they weren’t able to stop the Hunt from chasing a stag from Somerset’s Barton Wood and pursuing him over a period of more than three hours. He was finally killed near the river at Leworthy. NDHS posted a shocking video on their Facebook page. After the killing, DSSH prepared to carve up the murdered stag. However, their efforts were foiled by sabs who made clear that they weren’t willing to allow this further desecration to happen. On 7 April, MHS reported that the Quantock Staghounds’ riders rode their horses at a stag. They wrote: “As the stag was chased out of Little Quantock Combe, the riders shouted at and rode at him to try to turn him and stop him from crossing the Macmillan Way towards Forestry England-owned Rams Combe. Incredibly, the stag held his nerve and continued past the screaming riders towards safer ground. There are no Hunting Act exemptions that permit a howling group of riders to charge at a hunted stag on their horses. Yet the stag hunts continue to flaunt various exemptions to absurdly claim that their behaviour is legal.” This beautiful stag was chased down mercilessly and killed by the Tiverton and Quantock Staghounds on 23 March - Image courtesy of North Dorset Hunt Saboteurs. End the cruelty! We need a real ban in order to end this cruelty once and for all. Please remember to take the time to fill out the government consultation. Check out Protect the Wild’s pages on how to pressure the National Trust and Forestry England, to persuade them to enforce their own policies banning stag hunting and ‘trail’ hunting on their lands. Read Protect the Wild’s page on ‘Assaults and the law’. Support Wiltshire Hunt Saboteurs. Donate to South Wessex Hunt Saboteurs. Click here to support Mendip Hunt Saboteurs. Make a donation to help North Dorset Hunt Saboteurs keep the pressure up on the Southwest’s remaining Staghound packs. Read the Hunt Saboteurs Association’s new piece of undercover research on stag hunting. Hunts gear up to terrorise mink mink on unsplash july 2025 A mink in a burrow, via Unsplash. Minks are hunted from March all the way through to September, coinciding with their breeding season. Hunts often leave young mink - known as kits - motherless and sure to perish. The UK’s mink hunts are the successor to the banned otter hunts, which were disbanded after that species was declared endangered. After the 1978 ban on hunting otters, several otter hunts began hunting mink, whose river habitats are similar to those of otters. Mink live in rabbit burrows, tree roots and brush along waterways. They established themselves in the UK in the 1950s after being released from fur farms. Minks are covered by the Hunting Act, and hunting them with dogs is illegal. Dove Valley Mink Hounds’ huntsman Will Shaw after being sent packing by sabs last year - via Northants Hunt Saboteurs. Mink hunts operate by thrashing through vegetation along waterways, accompanied by dogs. They try to masquerade as ‘just doing surveys’ - but the telescopic poles they carry to knock minks out of trees are sure signs that they are intent on killing. Support your local sabs and monitors to put an end to this cruel bloodsport once and for all. Make sure you tip off your local sabs or monitors if you see mink hunting going on in your area. Read our explainer on mink hunting. Check out our report from 2024, and this one from last ‘season’. Make a donation to Northants Hunt Saboteurs. Support your local sabs and monitors to put an end to this cruel bloodsport once and for all. Check out our report from 2024, and this one from last ‘season’. Make a donation to Northants Hunt Saboteurs. New sab group set up in Oxfordshire Oxfordshire Hunt Saboteurs (OHS) is a new group that has just sabbed its first season. OHS was set up to “support the furry inhabitants of the area”. Protect the Wild caught up with them to ask them how the new group is going. We asked OHS what motivated them to start a new group in Oxfordshire. They said: “There are around two hundred active fox hunts in the UK, and that’s not counting all the beagle packs, stag hunts, and other forms of organised hunting across the country. Of those, at least ten are known to hunt in Oxfordshire. The Hunt Saboteurs Association works tirelessly to bring these cruel, barbaric practices to an end, and hold accountable those who break the law, slaughter wildlife, cause havoc across the countryside and are a danger on public roads. But while many counties have their own dedicated sab group, despite the prevalence of fox hunting in our area, Oxfordshire [did] not have one. And while there are some fantastic, hardworking groups that do their best to protect our wildlife, like the Three Counties and the Cotswolds Hunt Sabs, they’re covering a lot of ground, taking on many different hunts. Effectively, there’s a line of activists protecting our wildlife, but the line is stretched thin, with other groups forced to over-extend themselves. For a long time, we’ve seen a gap in the line… A gap we felt an obligation to fill.” Show Quoted Content “There are around two hundred active fox hunts in the UK, and that’s not counting all the beagle packs, stag hunts, and other forms of organised hunting across the country. Of those, at least ten are known to hunt in Oxfordshire. The Hunt Saboteurs Association works tirelessly to bring these cruel, barbaric practices to an end, and hold accountable those who break the law, slaughter wildlife, cause havoc across the countryside and are a danger on public roads. But while many counties have their own dedicated sab group, despite the prevalence of fox hunting in our area, Oxfordshire [did] not have one. And while there are some fantastic, hardworking groups that do their best to protect our wildlife, like the Three Counties and the Cotswolds Hunt Sabs, they’re covering a lot of ground, taking on many different hunts. Effectively, there’s a line of activists protecting our wildlife, but the line is stretched thin, with other groups forced to over-extend themselves. For a long time, we’ve seen a gap in the line… A gap we felt an obligation to fill.” OHS was initiated by a “small group of activists tired of letting these thugs on horseback get away with breaking the law and killing helpless creatures.” We couldn’t “sit back and do nothing” OHS told Protect the Wild: “Some of us were experienced sabs from other groups who recognised the need for an Oxfordshire group. Others were concerned members of the local community who never wanted to don the sab flag and dedicate their free time to traipsing across the countryside chasing fox hunters, but could not in good conscience sit back and do nothing. We work closely with a network of other animal rights groups, doing our bit to make the local area a safer place for animals.” Show Quoted Content “Some of us were experienced sabs from other groups who recognised the need for an Oxfordshire group. Others were concerned members of the local community who never wanted to don the sab flag and dedicate their free time to traipsing across the countryside chasing fox hunters, but could not in good conscience sit back and do nothing. We work closely with a network of other animal rights groups, doing our bit to make the local area a safer place for animals.” We asked OHS how their work had been going so far. They told us: “We’re a small group, but growing already after just one hunting season! And while it’s difficult to find people willing to risk their safety to be bullied and ridiculed by members of the local hunts and their supporters, we’ve found that an overwhelming number of people are eager for the hunters to be held accountable, and are out there, rooting for us, encouraging us, supporting in other ways, and even sending in tip-offs about illegal hunting in the area.” Show Quoted Content “We’re a small group, but growing already after just one hunting season! And while it’s difficult to find people willing to risk their safety to be bullied and ridiculed by members of the local hunts and their supporters, we’ve found that an overwhelming number of people are eager for the hunters to be held accountable, and are out there, rooting for us, encouraging us, supporting in other ways, and even sending in tip-offs about illegal hunting in the area.” The group is looking for new comrades to join them in whatever capacity they can. According to OHS: “[The] new group offers locals a chance to do something to help protect the furry inhabitants of the area. Their involvement doesn’t have to be on the front lines: some of our volunteers help with fundraising or organisational work. Some help with our social media presence or public outreach. Some join our network to share information about illegal hunting happening in their area. If you’re looking for ways to protect animals, please get in touch, and help us to show the hunters in the area, whether they’re with the Heythrop, Kimblewick, Warwickshire, Vale of the White Horse, Bicester Hunt with Whaddon Chase, Old Berks, Grafton, or any of the other hunts that have crossed our borders that there are consequences for animal abuse, and let the world know that such cruelty has no place in civilised society.” Show Quoted Content “[The] new group offers locals a chance to do something to help protect the furry inhabitants of the area. Their involvement doesn’t have to be on the front lines: some of our volunteers help with fundraising or organisational work. Some help with our social media presence or public outreach. Some join our network to share information about illegal hunting happening in their area. If you’re looking for ways to protect animals, please get in touch, and help us to show the hunters in the area, whether they’re with the Heythrop, Kimblewick, Warwickshire, Vale of the White Horse, Bicester Hunt with Whaddon Chase, Old Berks, Grafton, or any of the other hunts that have crossed our borders that there are consequences for animal abuse, and let the world know that such cruelty has no place in civilised society.” You can follow Oxfordshire Hunt Saboteurs here, and donate to support their work here. Vegan hiking group sabs hunt Members of Newcastle Hunt Saboteurs (NHS) were out rambling with the Vegan Hikers Club in Devon, close to Bellever Forest on Dartmoor, when they happened across a hunting hound straying across their path. Their sabbing instincts soon kicked in. Photo courtesy of Newcastle Hunt Saboteurs. They soon realised that they had stumbled across the South Devon Hunt and set out to confront them. The Hunt didn’t know what had hit them as they were faced by over 30 vegan hikers. NHS wrote: “It appeared they did not know what to do in the face of such strong opposition, hunting for only about ten minutes with the hounds briefly ‘in cry’ before gathering them up after they spilled onto Forestry Commission land; land the hunt are explicitly banned from.” The hikers - including the sabs - soon came across members of South Devon Hunt Saboteurs who were more than happy for the extra numbers. Unsure what to do, the Hunt soon packed up and went home. NHS continued: “After this embarrassing display, the hunt returned to the meet [point] and packed away with several hours of daylight still left.” Protect the Wild spoke to Norb, one of the hunt saboteurs present on the day. He said: “Whilst hiking I often experience the dark side of our countryside - the sounds of a shoot nearby, deadly traps, and even dead sheep in fields. It was only a matter of time before I stumbled upon a hunt too. Instead of letting it ruin our enjoyment of the day, it was a great opportunity to protect wildlife and introduce a group of animal lovers to the world of hunt sabotage.” Show Quoted Content “Whilst hiking I often experience the dark side of our countryside - the sounds of a shoot nearby, deadly traps, and even dead sheep in fields. It was only a matter of time before I stumbled upon a hunt too. Instead of letting it ruin our enjoyment of the day, it was a great opportunity to protect wildlife and introduce a group of animal lovers to the world of hunt sabotage.” Vegan hikers get stuck in - image courtesy of Newcastle Hunt Sabs. It’s heartwarming to see another hunt sent packing through people power! Support South Devon Hunt Saboteurs by clicking here and Newcastle Hunt Saboteurs by clicking here. Find out how to join the Vegan Hiking Club. Help get Newcastle Hunt Saboteurs vehicle back on the road before the next fox hunting ‘season’. Thanks again to all the wildlife defenders who have allowed us use their footage and pictures. Sabs and monitors often put themselves at significant personal risk to get these images. We appreciate and admire all of the groups and individuals working to end the cruelty of hunting. A guest post by Tom Anderson Journalist for Protect the Wild Subscribe to Tom SHARE LIKE COMMENT RESTACK © 2026 Protect the Wild Protect the Wild, 71-75 Shelton Street Covent Garden, London, W2CH 9JQ Unsubscribe Start writing

BUGBYTES CAMAPAIGN SPECIAL — IT’S ABOUT INVERTEBRATES — EVERY LITTLE HELPS

View this email in your browser Dear John We’re excited to share that Buglife has once again been selected to participate in Big Give’s Earth Raise; this year our campaign is "Invertebrates: The Backbone of Species Recovery." A week long event where every donation made via our Big Give web page, from midday on Wednesday 22 April until midday on Wednesday 29 April, will be doubled thanks to the Garfield Weston Foundation. Find out more and save the date! Invertebrates: The Backbone of Species Recovery This year our campaign focus is species recovery! The UK is home to over 40,000 terrestrial invertebrate species - vital to a healthy planet and for the free services they provide, many are in trouble and at risk of extinction. We urgently need funding to understand, communicate and take action to save our special invertebrates on the edge of extinction. Our species recovery work raises awareness of the importance of invertebrates, carrying out research to better understand their needs, and restoring habitats to provide safe havens for threatened species. Through our species recovery work, we take actions to safeguard priority invertebrates that are on the edge of extinction; benefitting other animals and plants too! This programme of work will benefit a number of priority species across the UK from the Bog Hoverfly (Eristalis cryptarum) to the White-clawed Crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes) and many species in between! Liz Oldring releasing a rescued White-clawed Crayfish with Nick Mott © Karim Vahed Will you help us raise awareness and take actions to safeguard priority invertebrates that are on the edge of extinction? 👀 Keep your eyes peeled, check out our socials next week and be sure to share with family and friends as we share more details about some of the amazing species we are working with, and for. Our supporters are amazing and we would like to "thank you" now, for supporting our work and our appeal in any way you can; whether that's by making a donation, forwarding the email you’ve received on to a friend, even liking or sharing our social media posts. It all helps. Whatever you can give, no matter the size, every donation will make double the difference, supporting our invertebrate species recovery work. ✅ Add a calendar reminder to your diary; ✅ Save this email, or the link and the donate button will appear on when the campaign starts at midday on Wednesday 22 April . Together we can save the small things that run the planet! The Buglife Team Facebook icon Instagram icon LinkedIn icon YouTube icon Website icon Buglife Logo Copyright (C) 2026 Buglife - The Invertebrate Conservation Trust. All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you opted in to receive Member communications electronically following becoming a Member. Thank you. Our mailing address is: Buglife - The Invertebrate Conservation Trust Allia Future Business Centre London Road Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE2 8AN United Kingdom Company No. 04132695 | Registered Charity No. 1092293 | Scottish Charity No.SC040004 Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe