Letters / SNH ignorance
In response to Mr Neville’s letter (SNH provides advice, it doesn’t monitor or police; SN, 21 August 2019) I am surprised at his ignorance regarding breeding bird disturbance.
He claims “the young of these (whimbrel and merlin) have fledged by mid-July so disturbance would no longer constitute an offence”. That statement is not correct.
Merlin and whimbrel have not necessarily fledged by mid-July. These Schedule 1 breeding birds are vulnerable to disturbance until at least mid-August. Merlin is often vulnerable until September. That is when the juveniles disperse.
See:
and
http://www.eurapmon.net/sites/default/files/raptors_2nd_ed_014_merlin.pdf
His response would indicate SNH have no idea whether these birds had nests and young chicks nor probable even looked for them!
To expect one officer, the Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW), to have accurate knowledge of 30 square kilometres of rough and wild hillside and to know where all shy and highly camouflaged birds may have young is nonsense.
I would have hoped for less ignorance from SNH and a modicum of professionalism. If this is the level of the ‘expert advice’ from SNH, heaven help our wildlife.
Ian Tinkler
Clousta
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
