Appeal Following poaching of Pheasants Near Lilley

Dear Resident

Police are appealing for information after a significant number of young pheasants (poults) were unlawfully killed and damage was caused within a pheasant enclosure on land near Chalk Hill and Lilley Bottom, North Hertfordshire. 

The incident is believed to have occurred sometime between 7pm on Thursday 20 August 2026 and 7am on Friday 21 August 2026.

Initial enquiries indicate that the pheasants suffered fatal injuries consistent with being struck by metal bolts, which investigators believe may have been fired from a catapult or a similar device.

The incident has caused considerable loss and distress, and officers are treating the matter very seriously. A number of enquiries are ongoing, including the examination of potential forensic opportunities.

Officers from the Rural Operational Support Team (ROST) are now keen to hear from anyone who may have been in the area during the overnight period and witnessed anything suspicious. This includes anyone who saw individuals acting unusually, heard disturbances, or noticed unfamiliar vehicles parked in nearby country lanes.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police on the non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference 41/80137/26.

Information can also be reported online via the police website.