Poaching
🚨 Community Alert: Poaching in Herefordshire – What You Need to Know
West Mercia Police and local wildlife groups have reported an increase in poaching incidents across Herefordshire. Poaching is illegal and harmful to wildlife, farming, and rural communities. Here’s how you can help:
✅ What to Look Out For
Suspicious activity at night: Bright lights, lamps, or torches in fields during late hours.
Trespassers with dogs: Lurcher or greyhound-type dogs are commonly used.
Unusual vehicles: Often parked near farmland or woodland, sometimes with trailers.
Gunshots or loud noises: Especially in rural areas after dark.
Animal carcasses: Deer or other wildlife found with injuries or missing parts.
Snares or traps: Illegal devices left along animal trails.
📞 How to Report
Emergency (crime in progress or danger): Call 999.
Non-emergency: Call 101 or report online at https://www.westmercia.police.uk.
Anonymous tip: Contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Poacher Alert App: Submit sightings and incidents to help enforcement agencies.
If possible, note:
Vehicle details (make, model, registration)
Number of people and dogs
Exact location and time
Any photos or CCTV (only if safe to do so)
⚠️ What to Avoid
Do NOT confront poachers – they may be armed and dangerous.
Do NOT put yourself at risk – stay at a safe distance.
Avoid interfering with evidence – leave traps or carcasses untouched.
✅ How to Stay Safe
Inform someone if you’re going out to remote areas.
Keep your property secure: gates locked, install trail cameras, and use rural crime signage.
Join local Poacherwatch or community WhatsApp groups for updates.
Together, we can protect our countryside and wildlife. If you see something, report it immediately – your information could make a big difference