Committee Against Bird Slaughter (CABS)

The Committee Against Bird Slaughter (CABS) is an international conservation organisation dedicated to combating illegal bird hunting and trapping, particularly in the Mediterranean region. On Malta, a crucial stopover for migratory birds, CABS conducts regular field operations and surveillance to monitor and report unlawful activities targeting protected species. Their work includes collaborating with local authorities, raising public awareness, and advocating for stronger wildlife protection laws. Through these efforts, CABS plays a significant role in safeguarding migratory birds passing through Malta each year.

Website: Committee Against Bird Slaughter (CABS)

A Comprehensive Overview of CABS’ Mission, Activities, and Impact

Introduction

The Committee Against Bird Slaughter (CABS) is an international non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to the protection of wild birds, with a particular focus on preventing the illegal hunting, trapping, and killing of migratory species. Since its inception in 1975, CABS has become a leading voice in bird conservation, operating primarily in Europe and the Mediterranean region. Through on-the-ground interventions, advocacy, education, and cooperation with law enforcement, CABS seeks to combat wildlife crime and ensure that migratory birds can travel safely between their breeding and wintering grounds.

History and Founding Principles

CABS was founded in Germany by a group of passionate birdwatchers and conservationists alarmed by the scale of illegal bird hunting, especially in southern Europe and along critical migration routes. Recognizing the urgent need for a coordinated response to stop poaching and excessive hunting, the founders of CABS established the organization with a clear mission: to take direct action against the unlawful slaughter of wild birds and to promote international cooperation in bird protection.

From its earliest days, CABS distinguished itself by its willingness to conduct field operations, known as “bird protection camps,” in hotspots of illegal activity. Volunteers and staff would travel to regions where poaching was rampant, documenting violations, dismantling traps, rescuing birds, and working closely with local authorities.

Mission and Objectives

The core mission of the Committee Against Bird Slaughter is to protect migratory birds from illegal killing and trapping, to raise awareness of wildlife crime, and to advocate for stronger laws and effective law enforcement. Its objectives include:

• Monitoring and documenting the illegal persecution of birds, such as shooting, trapping, and netting.
• Rescuing trapped or injured birds and promoting their rehabilitation and release.
• Organizing field operations and bird protection camps in poaching hotspots.
• Lobbying for the improvement and enforcement of wildlife protection laws at national and international levels.
• Educating the public, policymakers, and law enforcement about the importance of bird conservation and the threats posed by poaching.
• Cooperating with local NGOs, law enforcement agencies, and conservation networks to maximize impact.

Geographic Focus and Areas of Operation

While CABS is based in Germany, its activities span several countries, particularly those along major migratory flyways. Key areas of operation include:

• Italy: Particularly in regions such as Sicily, Calabria, and Brescia, where illegal hunting and trapping have long threatened migratory birds.
• Malta: An important stopover for birds crossing the Mediterranean, but also a hotspot for illegal shooting and trapping.
• Cyprus: Known for the widespread use of illegal bird-trapping methods, including limesticks and mist nets.
• Lebanon: A critical corridor for migratory birds, but plagued by uncontrolled hunting and shooting.
• Spain, France, Germany, and other European countries: Where CABS monitors compliance with bird protection laws and runs awareness campaigns.

CABS also works closely with other international organizations to address bird persecution in North Africa and the Middle East, recognizing that migratory bird protection must be a cross-border effort.

Major Activities and Methods

Field Operations and Bird Protection Camps

Perhaps the most distinctive aspect of CABS’ work is the organization of intensive field missions. These operations typically involve teams of volunteers and professional staff who patrol poaching hotspots during migration seasons, searching for evidence of illegal activity. The teams locate and destroy traps, nets, and decoys, collect data on poaching incidents, and alert law enforcement officers to apprehend perpetrators.

Over the years, these camps have led to the removal of tens of thousands of traps and the rescue of countless birds, many of which are rare or endangered species. CABS’ proactive approach is credited with significant reductions in poaching activity in areas where they operate.

Collaboration with Authorities and NGOs

CABS does not work in isolation; collaboration is a key part of its strategy. The organization maintains strong partnerships with local and international NGOs, wildlife authorities, police forces, and governmental agencies. These collaborations improve the effectiveness of anti-poaching efforts, facilitate rapid response to wildlife crime, and help ensure that rescued birds receive appropriate care.

Advocacy and Legal Action

Legal advocacy is another core pillar of CABS’ mission. The organization pushes for the strengthening and enforcement of wildlife protection laws, provides evidence for prosecutions, and may participate in court cases as an expert witness or plaintiff. By lobbying both national governments and international bodies such as the European Union, CABS aims to close legal loopholes and ensure that penalties for wildlife crime are meaningful deterrents.

Education and Awareness

CABS recognizes that lasting change requires a shift in attitudes as well as laws. Thus, the organization is committed to public education, running campaigns to raise awareness about the plight of migratory birds and the ecological importance of protecting them. These efforts may include school visits, media outreach, publication of reports, and the use of digital platforms to engage a wider audience.

Impact and Achievements

Since its founding, CABS has played a crucial role in reducing illegal bird killing in many regions. Its field operations have resulted in the removal of over 100,000 traps and devices, and the prosecution of hundreds of wildlife criminals. In Malta, for example, CABS’ sustained campaigns contributed to a significant decrease in illegal trapping and helped prompt legislative reform. In Cyprus and Italy, their camps have brought international attention to the scale of poaching and forced authorities to take more decisive action.

Beyond these quantifiable achievements, CABS has influenced public discourse on wildlife crime and conservation. The organization is respected for its evidence-based approach, non-violent direct action, and unwavering commitment to the protection of birds.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite considerable progress, the work of CABS is far from over. Poaching networks adapt quickly, and new threats continue to emerge, such as the illegal trade in wild birds for the pet market or the use of advanced technology to evade detection. Political and economic instability in some regions can also impede conservation efforts and enforcement.

CABS is actively expanding its operations and seeking new partnerships to address these challenges. The organization remains committed to innovation in fieldwork, the use of technology for monitoring and data collection, and the continued education and engagement of communities.

How to Support CABS

CABS relies on donations, memberships, and volunteer efforts to sustain its activities. Supporters can get involved by contributing financially, volunteering for fieldwork, or spreading awareness about the importance of migratory bird protection. Through collective action, the vision of safe skies for migratory birds can become a reality.