09 November 2003, 18:45
trans-pondBuzzards and badgers.
Both species have enjoyed vast population explosion in UK over last ten years. Ill conceived legislation affords them both protected status for past 10 years.
Buzzards have a place, indeed I enjoy the sound and sight of a thermalling raptor high above spruce timber...however, a pair will wreak havoc in a wood with young pheasants...make that 2 or 3 nesting pairs and action is required.
A farming friend was recently ploughing a 10 acre stubble and counted 40 buzzards in the field!
Badgers are creating similar over population problems following blanket protective legislation.
A main vector for TB infection, they will shortly make the bse and foot and mouth problems of UK livestock farming pall into insignificance.