The R.S.P.B permits hunting! 13/01/2008 21:56:52 by Jim [URL]http://www.birddiary.co.uk/discusshome.asp?tid=1052[/URL] In the papers today,a report stating that at Langstone harbour in Dorset,the rspb is actually issuing hunting licences!WHAT!I hear you say.Well,i believe it.Apparently this has been going on for 30 years.The warden says its because to police the hunting would be too difficult,so by issuing licences,it can be better monitored..In the same way Churchill ought to have issued visas to the Germans in 1940,because defending the country was too difficult! I bet these hunting licences bring in a pretty penny,and as they are only hunting common ducks,why not? So,common ducks dont need protecting then?Then again,its well known that the rspb doesnt include the Red Grouse on its protected species list.Why,rich toffs pay thousands to shoot them! I would urge all members to address the rspb about the issuing of hunting licences,and consider their memberships otherwise! Because,it seems,the rspb is only concerned with protecting those species which people(non birders) will pay good money to see,such as White tailed Eagle,Osprey etc,etc. If you visit an rspb reserve as a birder,you do feel like an undertaker at a wedding.The rspb constantly is mystifying birding,putting it forward as only something you can do if you a a member,or go on a "guided tour". But for them to not only condone duck hunting but issue licences-its like that dreadful"canned hunting"which occurs in Africa,where rich yanks pay thousands to shoot game,on private game parks.Disgusting!I have emailed the rspb on this matter,and i urge you all to do too.I think i will withdraw my membership if this does not stop immediately!Thank you. av