Wildlife crime cases up almost 40% this year

The unlawful burning of vegetation within the restricted period is included as a wildlife crime. File picture: Andy Gibson

Prosecution cases for wildlife crimes — like illegal hunting and vegetation burning — increased by 39% in 2023, according to new National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) data.

And record fines, some as high as €31,000, have been imposed for offences against nature in the 112 successful prosecutions closed by NPWS since 2020.