Wildlife Horror Unfolds: Yorkshire Man Banned for Life After Keeping Drugged and Decorated Birds
A Yorkshire resident receives a lifetime wildlife ban after shocking mistreatment of injured birds, raising urgent questions in 2025.
- 2 wild birds found drugged and injured
- Lifetime ban on keeping wildlife issued
- 18-month community order handed down
- £194 in court costs imposed
Police and animal welfare groups are sounding alarms after a disturbing case in North Yorkshire. Lee Jefferson, a 30-year-old man from Malton, has been given a lifetime ban on keeping wildlife. The ruling follows the discovery of two wild birds—a jackdaw and a wood pigeon—kept in inhumane conditions and exposed to marijuana.
RSPCA inspectors described a shocking scene: the jackdaw’s claws painted with glittery nail polish, a bell tied around its neck, appearing dazed and “withdrawn.” Beside it, a wood pigeon had a broken wing, wrapped crudely in gaffer tape instead of a proper splint. Veterinarians later revealed both birds showed signs of marijuana toxicity—an alarming first for local wildlife welfare in 2025.
Jefferson admitted guilt on two counts under the Animal Welfare Act. Despite claiming to have found the birds already injured, he never sought veterinary help. Instead, he tried treating the jackdaw with a vitamin paste meant for cats—further compounding its suffering.
Both animals suffered serious neglect. While the jackdaw survived after intensive hydration and care at an RSPCA wildlife center, the wood pigeon had to be euthanized due to irreversible injuries.
The case has sent shockwaves through the region and renewed calls for tightening wildlife protection laws in the UK. With wildlife trafficking and mistreatment on the rise, authorities are urging the public to report any suspicious activity.
Q: What made this case so shocking?
Evidence gathered by RSPCA Inspector Laura Barber painted a grim picture: recreational drugs, glittery nail polish, and makeshift medical care. Marijuana toxicity causes lethargy and can be fatal for birds, making this case exceptionally dangerous and unusual for local wildlife.
How to Help Injured Wildlife Safely
If you find an injured wild animal, follow these steps:
- Contact your local animal welfare organization, such as the RSPCA
- Avoid administering human or pet medication without expert guidance
- Keep the animal safe, warm, and quiet while awaiting help
- Never expose wildlife to recreational drugs or substances
Q: What are the legal consequences for wildlife mistreatment in 2025?
UK law, including the Animal Welfare Act, has ramped up penalties for animal cruelty in recent years. Lifetime bans, hefty fines, and even jail time await offenders—especially in cases involving extreme neglect or cruelty.
Related: How Can You Report Suspected Wildlife Abuse?
Suspect wildlife abuse? Instantly contact organizations like the WWF or Born Free Foundation. Most charities now offer easy online reporting and hotlines.
Why Protecting Wildlife Matters More than Ever in 2025
As urban expansion and human-wildlife encounters rise, responsible stewardship is essential. Wildlife is protected by law—and by public outcry. Even seemingly minor mistreatment can have devastating consequences for local ecosystems and fragile species.
Take action: If you see or suspect animal cruelty, don’t wait. Contact authorities and ensure vulnerable wildlife get expert care and a fighting chance.
Checklist: What To Do If You Find Injured Wildlife
- Stay calm and observe from a distance
- Record details and take photos if safe
- Call the RSPCA or local wildlife rescue group
- Never use human or pet products on wildlife
- Report suspicious cases immediately to authorities
Let’s protect our wildlife—your vigilance could save a life!