Officers conducted a search of a property in Annalong after receiving information that a barn owl was being offered for sale through a social media site. The owl was seized by police during the search on Friday, 18 December 2015.

Barn Owls are legislated for under the Wildlife (NI) Order 1985 as amended by the Wildlife and Natural Environment Act (NI) 2011. To hold a Barn Owl you must apply for a licence from the appropriate authorities including the Northern Ireland Environment Agency. Enquiries into this incident are continuing.

PSNI Wildlife Officer, Emma Meredith said: “We would like to thank the public for their assistance and help in combating wildlife crime.

Police would encourage anyone with information on wildlife crime to report it on 101. Alternative you can contact the independent crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Source: the Chichester Observer

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