LES SHOOTER FROM HUNMANBY CONVICTED FOR INJURING BARN OWL WITH TRAP NEAR FILEY

Leslie Shooter, born around 1966 and residing on Constable Road in Hunmanby, near Filey, has been found guilty of causing severe harm to a protected barn owl through the use of a rat trap. The incident took place in the allotments at Sands Lane, Hunmanby, where a dog walker discovered the injured bird on April 8, 2023.

According to reports, the adult barn owl was found caught in a spring-operated trap, commonly known as a ‘Fenn’ trap, which had been set by Shooter as part of his efforts to control rats in the area. The trap had inflicted fatal injuries on the bird, particularly to its legs, prompting immediate rescue efforts. The owl was taken to a veterinarian for treatment, but unfortunately, the extent of its injuries was too severe, and the decision was made to euthanize the animal to prevent further suffering.

When questioned by North Yorkshire Police, Leslie Shooter admitted to setting multiple traps intended for rodent control. However, he also acknowledged that he had failed to cover the traps properly, as required by law, which led to the unintended capture of the barn owl. This breach of legal regulations concerning trap use and animal protection laws resulted in his arrest and subsequent court proceedings.

During the court hearing, Shooter pleaded guilty to several charges, including the illegal use of an animal trap in circumstances that are not approved, setting a trap that caused injury to a wild bird, and causing unnecessary suffering to a protected species. The court took these violations seriously, emphasizing the importance of adhering to legislation designed to safeguard wildlife.

As part of his sentencing, Leslie Shooter was ordered to complete 100 hours of unpaid community service. Additionally, he was required to pay costs and surcharges amounting to £199. The case highlights the strict regulations governing the use of spring-operated traps in the UK, which are legal only when used correctly and within the bounds of the law, including proper coverage and regular checking to prevent harm to non-target species such as wild birds.

This incident underscores the ongoing issues related to wildlife protection and the importance of responsible pest control practices in rural and semi-rural areas like Hunmanby and Filey.