Wildlife crime in YO31 area

On 27/09/2025, North Yorkshire Police have been notified of a fox being killed with a firearm on private land in the YO31 1JL postcode of Stockton on the Forest.

The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 is the primary legislation governing wildlife protection in the UK, including foxes. 

The law prohibits certain methods of killing foxes and there are strict rules regarding use of firearms.

Any shooting on private land has to have the permission of the landowner - which in this case was not obtained.

You can report wildlife crime anonymously to Crimestoppers on telephone 0800555111 or via 101 to North Yorkshire Police

If you witness a suspected wildlife crime in action call 999 immediately and ask for the police.

Please be mindful when walking in the area and take precautions around personal safety by sticking to public footpaths and rights of way. Do not trespass on private land and consider keeping dogs on leads where applicable. 

Any information regarding the report from 27/09/2025 can be emailed to the officer dealing -  PC 1864 Wilding 

Fiona.Wilding@northyorkshire.police.uk. Quote reference 12250184970 when passing on information.