People in Wiltshire are being asked to keep an eye out for suspicious activity in the countryside as part of Operation Easter, a national effort to protect vulnerable nesting birds.
The county is home to species including the skylark, redshank, honey buzzard and yellowhammer, all of which are on the UK’s conservation Red List following sharp population declines.
Egg collecting may sound like a thing of the past, but it still happens. A small number of individuals continue to target nests, sometimes taking entire clutches from rare birds. The eggs can end up hidden in private collections or sold on, causing lasting damage to already struggling populations.
The issue is not just local. In 2024, Operation PULKA uncovered a large international network involved in trading wild bird eggs, with around 20,000 eggs seized across the UK, Australia and Norway.
As the 2026 nesting season gets underway, there will be an increased presence from police and partner organisations, including the National Wildlife Crime Unit, to help protect nesting sites and deter offenders.
Public awareness remains one of the most effective ways to tackle the problem. Anyone who spots unusual behaviour around nesting areas is encouraged to report it by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency.
If it is safe to do so, people are also asked to note descriptions, vehicle registrations or take photos that could help.
Information can also be passed on anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
With peak nesting activity beginning in April, early reports can make a real difference in protecting vulnerable species.
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