Father Christmas has again fallen foul of the Wildlife and Countryside Act and The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations. A serial offender responsible for previous breaches he has been caught intentionally, deliberately and recklessly disturbing bats, as well as damaging their roosts, in a chimney near Tunbridge Wells. The offence was discovered by police officers who had stopped his sleigh for dangerous driving. ‘We asked the gentleman to climb out of his vehicle. He was unsteady on his feet and as he stumbled several drowsy bats fell from the hood of his red furry suit. On further questioning it appeared he had disturbed them while attempting to enter a nearby house from the roof’.
New European Protected species
The European elf population has declined to such low levels that they have been awarded special protection by the EU. It is now an offence to kill or injure elves, transport them for breeding purposes, or damage their habitats. Angus MacDougall of Scottish Unnatural Heritage commented ‘we are delighted with this news. Elves have long been a priority BAP species in Scotland so any protection offered by the EU helps us in our goal of a 50% increase in elf numbers in the Highlands’.
Lobbyists for the pixie are hopeful that they will receive similar status early in 2011.
Christmas tree praised for biodiversity
A recent Phase 1 habitat survey of the Christmas tree at Dunroamin, Acacia Avenue, revealed a wide range of flora and fauna including geese, reindeer, several rare angels and, unusually for South London, oranges. The tree will be a major contributor to the proposed new extension’s achievement of a BREEAM excellent rating.
Recipe Corner
In preparation for this year’s Christmas meal The Ecology Consultancy has reinvented the three bird roast to consist of Schedule 1 species only. After trying several variations our tasters preferred a hen harrier stuffed with a king fisher stuffed with a black redstart. The dish is best accompanied by a starter of sautéed white clawed crayfish and a great crested newt spawn sorbet for dessert.
Best wishes for Christmas, we will be back in the New Year with some more serious stories.
