Suffolk Police launch annual operation to deter theft of rare birds' eggs

Suffolk Police have launched their annual operation aimed at deterring the theft of rare birds' eggs with the nesting season under way.

The so-called 'Operation Easter' targets egg thieves by sharing intelligence to support enforcement action.

The operation was developed in Scotland 25 years ago and engages forces across the UK under the leadership of the National Wildlife Crime Unit (NWCU), a British national police unit.

In recent years it has also been expanded to cover emerging trends of criminal behaviour such as the online trade in eggs and the disturbance of nests for photography.

The taking of wild bird eggs involves whole clutches of eggs being taken from some of the UK's rarest birds and stored in secret collections.

Sgt Brian Calver, of Suffolk Police's Rural and Wildlife Team, said: "Operation Easter is embedded within wildlife crime policing and we work with colleagues across the country to deter this crime which can have a serious environmental impact.

"We also want to highlight to the public the importance of this campaign in protecting many of our well-loved wild bird species.”

If you have any information on egg thieves, or those who disturb rare nesting birds without a license, you should contact your local police by phoning 101 and ask to speak to Sgt Brian Calver.

Information can also be passed in confidence to Crimestoppers via 0800 555 111.