Kildare gardai in joint operation targeting unlawful hunting, trespass

On Sunday, January 25 2026, Gardaí in County Kildare, in partnership with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), carried out a joint operation in response to ongoing reports of unlawful hunting, trespass, and the illegal targeting of protected wildlife, contrary to the Wildlife Acts.

The operation focused on rural and farming communities most impacted by this activity.

A number of high-visibility checkpoints were established by Community Gardaí across mid and south Kildare, alongside joint patrols at known locations associated with unlawful hunting.

A garda spokesperson stated: “Illegal hunting has a serious and damaging impact on local biodiversity and conservation, with the potential to cause localised extinctions of protected and iconic species such as the Irish Hare.

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“These activities are often linked with other offences, including trespass and criminal damage, which can cause significant distress within rural communities.

“Gardaí and NPWS remain committed to protecting wildlife, supporting landowners, and tackling unlawful activity.”

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact their local Garda station.