New crackdown on wildlife crime

Wildlife crimes reported ranged from the disturbance of bats, illegal hunting, such as hare lurching, and badger digging

Wildlife crimes also relate to the unlawful destruction of vegetation in hedgerows and the illegal burning of vegetation within the restricted period.

A crackdown on wildlife crime, which saw 43 prosecutions in the courts last year, is set to intensify during 2024.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service has recruited additional staff to tackle the issue on the ground in collaboration with An Garda Síochána.