PREDATORY birds are becoming an increasing problem for pigeon fanciers on Portland.

Brad Gould, who has pigeon lofts in Wakeham, Portland, and has pursued the hobby for more than 40 years, said: "It's nature.

"I have lost 14 birds over the past year or so to sparrow hawks, ravens and peregrines who kill and eat them after catching them in flight or on the ground and I even had two ravens fly, into the loft last week to attack the pigeons."

"The problem is long-standing and is getting worse and these predators, all beautiful birds, are even going for small birds who are feeding from crumbs and water put out for them in gardens," he added.

Mr Gould feels that these hunters are the biggest cause of our diminishing sparrows, blackbirds, blue tits and finches which used to be such a part of the summer scene.

Ramblers and dog walkers in the area of the lofts are distressed by the sight of the pigeons being devoured but, as Mr Gould remarked: "While we like to see all birds, the RSPB has told us that there is nothing we can do about it as the predators are protected."

He is seriously thinking of giving up his hobby as every time he releases his racing pigeons, they are attacked.

"The problem is widespread, it's not just in Portland and Weymouth, and many pigeon fanciers are losing birds which, besides many being worth a considerable sum, are also creatures they care about, and it's a sad sight to see one being dragged from flight."