MORE than 1,200 wildlife crime incidents were recorded by non-government organisations (NGOs) in 2016, a new report has revealed.

The first ever wildlife crime report for England and Wales is being launched tomorrow and is backed by 18 NGOs including the Whale and Dolphin Conservation, Badger Trust and the Bat Conservation Trust.

The report, co-ordinated by the Wildlife and Countryside Link and Wales Environment Link, aims to shine a light on the hidden deaths, suffering, and conservation impacts of wildlife crime in England and Wales.

A total of 1,278 incidents were recorded, with 240 cases being reported to the police and 22 resulting in prosecutions and convictions.

The largest proportion of incidents recorded or reported involved badgers at 612.

Dominic Dyer, CEO of the Badger Trust, said: "It is shocking that most wildlife crimes reported to the police are not recorded in a meaningful or coordinated way. Badgers and other animals are suffering and dying, and it is hidden away amid a multitude of miscellaneous offences."

Kit Stoner, CEO of the Bat Conservation Trust, said: "These figures show that wildlife crime is still a clear and present danger for British bats, birds, and other animals. Inadequate recording and reporting is turning it into an invisible crime – making it impossible for hard-working enforcement officers to target resources effectively and stop criminals in their tracks. "

Dr Elaine King, Director of Wildlife and Countryside Link, said: "We must protect our wildlife from horrible deaths at the hands of badger baiters, poachers and illegal hunters. Scotland has legal requirements to report on this issue and wildlife in England and Wales must not be forgotten."