News

Disturbance of protected badger sett- Appeal for Information

Date Released: Thursday, January 25, 2024

At approximately 4pm on the 24th January, 2024 an Garda Síochána working in conjunction with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) were alerted to an incident at a rural location in the vicinity of Croagh village, Co. Limerick (between Adare and Rathkeale) contrary to the Wildlife Acts.

When Gardaí arrived to the scene they observed two holes which had been intentionally dug in the ground. This is believed to be associated with the practice of badger baiting – when badgers are dug out of their setts and captured to be used to fight with dogs.

This is a harmful and serious offence under the Wildlife Acts as badgers are a protected species. The wilful disturbance or interference with the breeding or resting site of any protected mammal is an offence under the Wildlife Acts. Any associated activity with the disturbance or capture of protected mammals and persecution in such activities such as badger baiting is strictly illegal.

Gardaí are appealing for anyone with information regarding this incident to come forward. In particular, they wish to speak to anyone that was in the Croagh village area or the wider Adare and Rathkeale areas during 1pm and 4pm today (24 January) and may have seen anything of relevance. Any road users who may have video camera footage (including dash-cam) from this area at this time are asked to make it available to Gardaí.

Vigilance from the public is always of benefit to Gardaí and the NPWS in thwarting wildlife crime.  If you suspect that a wildlife crime has taken place do report it to An Garda Síochána or make a report to NPWS by email on WildlifeEnforcement@npws.gov.ie or contact your local conservation ranger.

PICTURES UNDER OF THE DISTURBED BADGER SETT- 24 JANURAY 2024