Chris Packham reported to police after ‘sniffing’ wild goshawk chick on The One Show
CHRIS Packham has been reported to the police after he “sniffed” a wild goshawk chick on The One Show recently.
The wildlife broadcaster has come under fire after his appearance on the BBC show.
Chris, 62 had planned to inform The One Show viewers about how the bird species has recovered after nearly going extinct.
In a short 5 clip which was under 5 minutes long, the presenter participated in biometric tests in the New Forest.
He sniffed one of the three chicks to discover its “characteristic scent or perfume”.
They were weighed, sexed, and ringed in accordance with a British Trust for Ornithology permit.
After the video was shown in June, a police complaint was made alleging that a filming licence may not have been secured.
It was claimed that the filming caused a “disturbance” to a protected species.
But Chris insisted to The Telegraph that he hadn’t broken any laws. He claimed that those worried about the species should be more concerned about “widespread persecution” by gamekeepers who have killed goshawks illegally.
“I watched the programme and was struck by the way Mr Packham handled and sniffed the birds,” the complaint, who wishes to remain anonymous, told the newspaper.
“These birds are Schedule 1 protected and it is a crime to intentionally or recklessly disturb at, on or near an active nest.”
The complainant allegedly called New England to find out if permission to film was granted – and they told him they have not “been able to locate” any “relevant licences”.
According to a Hampshire Police spokesperson, on July 2 they were notified of an alleged violation of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
They stated it is currently being analysed by the force’s Coutrywatch unit.
A BBC spokesman said: “The One Show had permission to film and followed all protocols around filming wildlife.”
The Sun have contacted Chris Packham‘s rep for further comment.