Hunters convicted for toxic lead shot and other hunting violations

GOOSE BAY, N.L. -- May 7, 2012 -- Three individuals were sentenced on April 30 in Provincial Court in Goose Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador, after being convicted of offences under the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994 (MBCA). Total fines in this case are $4,000 and the Court ordered the forfeiture of hunting equipment to the Crown.

Frank Flynn, Roy Butt and Scott Hancock were each fined $500 for possessing toxic lead shot for the purpose of hunting migratory game birds. They were each fined an additional $500 for possessing migratory birds without a permit. They are also prohibited for one year from hunting migratory birds, or from being in the company of anyone hunting migratory birds

Roy Butt and Scott Hancock were also each fined $500 for possessing migratory birds without a permit in a place other than their residence.

All three individuals were also ordered to forfeit their hunting equipment to the Crown, including firearms, ammunition as well as 18 migratory birds. 

Waterfowl are poisoned when they ingest toxic lead pellets while feeding.

Hunting waterfowl with lead shot has been banned in Canada since 1999.

Environment Canada enforces federal wildlife legislation which protects plant and animal species throughout Canada. This is done in collaboration with other federal departments, provincial and territorial governments as well as international agencies and organizations.

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