Despite several warnings, France has not yet put an end to illegal trade in the ortolan bunting (Emberiza hortulana), a migratory bird threatened with extinction. France is now being taken to the European Court of Justice for persistently infringing EU rules on the conservation of wild birds, explained the European Commission on Thursday 8 December.
The Birds Directive (2009/147/EC) prohibits activities that directly threaten birds, such as their deliberate killing or capture, destruction of nests and removal of eggs, and associated activities (e.g., trading in live or dead birds) with special emphasis on the protection of habitats for endangered and migratory species.
The ortolan bunting is a migratory bird species in decline in Europe. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the status of the ortolan bunting in France has changed from vulnerable to endangered, with an increased risk of extinction.
A reasoned opinion sent to France in June 2016 has not led to any action being taken (see EUROPE 11575). The Commission is now increasing the pressure by a notch to ensure this flagship EU legislation is enforced for the conservation of nature (see EUROPE 11684). (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)