Police appeal after badger sett attacked in West Yorkshire

Police say the poachers had attempted to remove heavy stone and rubble in a bid to dig up the sett. It is unclear whether any animals were taken.

Calderdale district police’s Wildlife Officer, Phil Sanderson said: “The area has an active badger monitor group who monitor all the setts in Calderdale on a regular basis and report all matters of interference or concern to the police.

“Badgers are a protected species by law, as is their habitation and anyone found interfering with a badger sett could face prosecution.

“Poachers can be charged with many offences, including criminal damage and theft, and will face arrest and conviction and the seizure of any vehicles, equipment and dogs used in the crimes. Poachers can also face disqualification from driving if they are using their vehicles for crime.”

Mr Sanderson said there had been three attacks on badger setts in the Barkisland area this year, mainly in the Black Brook valley area.

Anyone with information should call 101, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.