WILDLIFE officers from Durham Police have joined colleagues across the country to discuss problems facing birds, badgers and other endangered animals.

Among those attending a conference in Bristol this weekend is Durham Police wildlife liaison officer Sergeant Eddie Bell.

Topics include implications of human rights laws for wildlife crime detection and a need for greater powers of arrest and stiffer penalties.

Parliament is already discussing tougher legislation on animal crimes under the Countryside and Rights of Way Bill.

Sergeant Bell said: "Those involved in wildlife crime are as well organised and as dangerous as criminals from other areas of offending."

Apart from crimes committed against domestic animals such as eagles and badgers, UK police are uncovering illegally imported parrots or reptiles and even tiger and bear parts used in oriental medicines.

The UK's birds suffer at the hands of egg collectors, from poisoning and from trapping.

Police increasingly work alongside RSPB officers to combat wildlife crimes.

Graham Elliott, RSPB head of investigations, said: "Wildlife crime is at an outrageously high level, despite a century of legislation designed to protect our animals and plants. We urgently need improved legislation.