Story perspectives

Hare Coursing Surges 20% Amid Ongoing Wildlife Threats

1/2/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Hare coursing continues in the Vale of Pewsey, Wiltshire, with a 20% rise in hare coursing and poaching offenses and 30 arrests since January 2025.
The practice threatens wildlife and local communities, while farmers increasingly implement protective measures on their land.
Philip Wilkinson, the police and crime commissioner, links hare coursing to international crime networks.
Despite the ban on hare coursing, the activity persists and risks wildlife and communities.

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Story summary

Hare coursing continues in the Vale of Pewsey, Wiltshire, with a 20% rise in hare coursing and poaching offenses and 30 arrests since January 2025.
The practice threatens wildlife and local communities, while farmers increasingly implement protective measures on their land.
Philip Wilkinson, the police and crime commissioner, links hare coursing to international crime networks.
Despite the ban on hare coursing, the activity persists and risks wildlife and communities.