"A survey carried out by the
Countryside Alliance,
Moorland Association and
National Gamekeepers Organisation found 60% of people think raptors should be controlled, even though 80% were unaware there were more raptors now than at any time since records began."
Says it all really! didn't bother read any further.
Stewart
Stewart. always read further. At the very least, know your enemy! In my work I come into contact with plenty of these people, including gamekeepers, and you can (nearly) always get into an intelligent conversation if you show you have a knowledge of the subjects they are reading about (FW has a big readership amongst country folk). Promote further thought on the subject when you have the opportunity and you can go a long way to getting your point over instead of just dismissed.
"60% of people think raptors should be controlled" Excellent, nearly half of the people the organisers saw fit to be polled don't think it necessary. Persuade 11% of 'em instead of letting them just read more unsubstantiated truths and you're there.
80% didn't know more BoPs since records began Easy, and when did records begin. Most accredited surveys started when there were unnaturally low populations.
81% support work controlling predators Note change of phrase from raptors to predators. Two out of ten country folk don't support controlling predators? That's high! Actually, I bet those two don't support it but condone it. Remember as well, known fact that RSPB supports work controlling (certain) predators on some of its reserves.
Two-thirds support the work of the RSPB Woohoo! Result surely? Most positive thing I take from the article. Shows RSPB is getting something right in winning hearts and minds.
80% saying RSPB should carry out control on their reserves I'd be pleased to tell 'em they already do, (
some control,
some reserves) and then go on about their ongoing research into predation.
everyone from the Government to the RSPB has run scared of being open and honest Well, yes to a degree, in that RSPB doesn't promote control figures, but c'mon, foxproof fencing is easy enough to spot so they're not hiding it (although there was that year at one East Anglian reserve they fenced the fox
in!).
We live in a managed landscape. People understand that it is necessary to control predators to protect declining species and maintain a balance And I for one can agree with the sentiment, but would then argue that this closing statement is an oversimplification and thus misleading. Even if they disagree with your point, if they've listened they're at least heard the case opposing theirs. If you've made one of that 60% who support raptor control open his/her mind to the arguments, you'll find when you talk with them next they will have been giving them some thought. Which is a start.
