Secret cameras are to be deployed by Devon's police, to protect wild nesting birds - but officers are also asking the public to be their eyes and ears in the countryside, to help prevent wildlife crime.
Devon is home to several rare and protected species of bird including cirl buntings, peregrine falcons, woodlarks and kingfishers.
Last year police introduced a special operation to tackle the persecution of birds and uphold the law relating to the special protection given to some species.
This operation- which continues this year - involves installing covert cameras near the nests, to capture evidence of people disturbing or interfering with eggs or fledgelings.
But as the nesting season begins, police are asking the public to report anyone they see anyone behaving suspiciously near nesting sites.
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