Millions of songbirds are illegally trapped and killed annually in Mediterranean countries for food and traditional use, causing welfare harms and population declines across European species.
Birds captured in limestick trapping endure entanglement, wing damage, and prolonged distress before being killed. Many birds suffer injuries during mist-net trapping that impair future survival even if released. Non-target species including protected raptors and rare migrants are frequently caught and killed alongside target species.