Killing the Skydancer: episode three, An Open Secret
Aug 17, 2023
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In this episode of Science Weekly, guest Susie, a victim of raptor persecution, shares her experiences. The podcast explores the economic benefits and moral concerns surrounding bird killing, the challenges faced by gamekeepers, the police investigation into wildlife crime, efforts to combat raptor persecution, and the importance of protecting birds like the hen harrier.
The economic influence and livelihood dependency on grouse shooting make it challenging for locals to speak out against the illegal killing of birds of prey.
The high-stress and fragile work environment of gamekeepers, coupled with pressure from landowners, creates conditions where committing wildlife crimes may seem like the only choice to secure their employment.
Deep dives
Economics and Tolerance: The Overlooked Factors in Raptor Persecution
The podcast explores the economic considerations and social tolerance that contribute to the overlooked issue of raptor persecution. The moorlands in North Yorkshire, a popular destination for grouse shooters, generate substantial income and employment opportunities. This economic influence and livelihood dependency make it challenging for locals to speak out against the illegal killing of birds of prey. While some individuals express discomfort or opposition to raptor persecution, the overall sentiment suggests that the killing of raptors is tolerated due to the perceived benefits it brings to the community.
Employment Power Dynamics and Pressure on Gamekeepers
The podcast delves into the employment power dynamics that exist within the grouse shooting industry and the pressures faced by gamekeepers. Gamekeepers, often living on the estates they work for, have limited job prospects outside of countryside management and shooting. The fear of losing their job and livelihood, coupled with the low salaries and limited holiday time, creates a high-stress and fragile work environment. The pressure from landowners and bosses to produce high numbers of grouse adds to the complexities of their role, leaving gamekeepers in a precarious position where committing wildlife crimes may seem like the only choice to secure their employment.
Challenges in Enforcement and Accountability
The podcast highlights the challenges in enforcing wildlife protection laws and holding individuals accountable for raptor persecution. Despite efforts from wildlife crime units and conservation organizations, detecting and prosecuting wildlife crimes, particularly raptor persecution, remains difficult. The widespread nature of these crimes and the limited resources allocated to tackle them contribute to the low priority given by the criminal justice system. The lack of public pressure and societal perception also impact the willingness of individuals to report incidents or come forward with information. The podcast emphasizes the need for increased engagement, education, and collaboration among law enforcement, communities, and landowners to address these challenges effectively.
In this special Age of Extinction mini-series from Science Weekly, Guardian biodiversity reporter Phoebe Weston explores the illegal killing of birds of prey on grouse moors, and asks why it is so difficult to solve these crimes. In the third and final episode, Phoebe finds out more about the pressures that drive people to commit raptor persecution, discovers how the police investigation into the case of Susie’s crushed chicks unfolded, and how Susie is doing now. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/sciencepod
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