With the harvesting period now upon us, the threat of hare coursing is looming across rural areas of Hertfordshire.

In response, Hertfordshire Constabulary will be conducting targeted patrols to deter hare coursers.

Hare coursing – which has been illegal in the UK since 2005 – involves the pursuit of a hare with a greyhound or similar dog. If the hare is caught by a dog it is usually killed.

Those involved in hare coursing often travel over many counties to meet in rural areas within Hertfordshire to carry out this abhorrent activity.

In Hertfordshire, police officers from the specialist Rural Operational Support Team will be carrying out a series of days of action, through Operation Galileo, with other forces in the East of England.

Carried out alongside officers from the Safer Neighbourhood Team Special Constabulary, these days of action will be in addition to usual patrols.

A number of officers and staff in Hertfordshire Constabulary will also be receiving specialist training in dealing with hare coursing.

Sergeant Jamie Bartlett, who leads the Rural Operational Support Team, said: “We have already received reports of suspected incidents in East and North Herts recently but it is also a problem which happens across rural areas throughout the county, and we expect these reports to continue now that farmland is being cleared.

“Not only do illegal coursers and poachers trespass on private land, damage crops and property, but they also often steal property and can be abusive and intimidating to those who challenge them.  

“There is also the matter of animal cruelty, frequent illegal gambling, driving stolen vehicles and using red diesel.

“With the advent of the new season upon us, I would like to reassure farmers and those who live and work in rural areas that we will be putting on extra patrols in areas where hare coursing is likely to take place.”

Anyone caught hare coursing could face a fine of up to £5,000, disqualification from driving and even imprisonment.