We are calling on online retailers to take urgent action, leading by example and stop selling catapults to under-18's. This simple, practical step would immediately reduce harm to wildlife by restricting access to weapons that are being misused to cause suffering and death.
Naturewatch Foundation has repeatedly contacted retailers to raise these concerns. We have been met with poor excuses and very little action.
Over the past two years, a deeply troubling trend has emerged across the UK. Wildlife, domestic pets, and even people are increasingly being harmed by the misuse of catapults and crossbows - often by children and teenagers who can easily buy them online.
Members of the 'Target Crime not Wildlife' coalition are reporting a worrying rise in injured and killed swans, birds, and other animals. Disturbingly, domestic pets such as cats and dogs are also being targeted. Many of these injuries are deliberate, raising serious concerns about animal cruelty and public safety.
We intend to personally hand-deliver these messages to retailers who can, without a doubt, make a difference.