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What we are not
The RSPB works for the conservation of biodiversity, especially wild birds and their habitats. This is a huge task, and one that we take very seriously. However, birds and wildlife are even bigger topics, so it is worth explaining why the RSPB takes a neutral stance in certain areas.
Falconry
The RSPB is neutral towards legal falconry and accepts its place as a traditional sport. However, where falconry impinges on the conservation of wild birds, the RSPB does take an interest. For example, there is an unscrupulous trade in wild-caught birds of prey, and theft of eggs from the nests of birds of prey is still a problem. These can seriously affect populations of some of our rarest birds. In such cases, RSPB Investigations Officers help the Police to bring prosecutions to court.
Animal welfare
Many people are concerned about a wide variety of animal welfare issues. The RSPB recognises these concerns, but accepts that these issues are well catered for by charities such as the RSPCA and SSPCA. We have neither veterinary surgeons trained to deal with sick or injured birds, nor do we run bird hospitals. A few issues, such as major oil spills at sea, may have both welfare and conservation aspects. In such cases, the RSPB works to reduce both the immediate conservation impacts and the chances of such disasters being repeated.
Field sports
The RSPB takes a neutral stance on field sports except where they adversely affect wildlife conservation. For example, we have worked closely with The Game Conservancy Trust to find ways of halting the rapid decline in grey partridge numbers. Although our desire to see partridge numbers increase may be driven by different motives, both organisations seek the same end result - a countryside fit for wildlife.