WILDLIFE enthusiasts are travelling to Israel to help prevent the illegal slaughter of migratory bird species.

Four Yorkshire nature buffs will be competing in an international bird-watching competition while raising money for conservation.

Champions of the Flyway, in the Israeli coastal city of Eilat on March 26, is a race to record the most species of birds in 24 hours.

Richard Baines, turtle dove project officer at the North York Moors National Park, said: “In the National Park we’re very fortunate to have one of the largest populations of turtle doves in England, but these long-distance flyers must complete a perilous journey to reach their winter home in Africa.

“Illegal hunting in parts of southern Europe, the Mediterranean and Middle East mean many of our much-loved migratory species are at risk, including the nightingale, cuckoo, flycatchers and yellow wagtails.”

The challenge focuses on the illegal hunting and trapping of songbirds in Croatia and Serbia.

More than 50,000 quails have been shot in the area, with the use of illegal tape lures – electronic recordings used to entice birds.

Each team will raise money for the cause, with proceeds used to tackle local prosecution and support education initiatives aimed at changing hunting practices.

Joining Mr Baines as part of Zeiss Yorkshire Terriers is team captain Mark Pearson, a Filey-based ornithologist and ecologist who has appeared on BBC's Springwatch and Autumnwatch, wildlife artist Darren Woodhead, and Jono Leadley, northern regional manager at the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust.

The team, who have already raised £12,000, will be competing against 25 groups to be crowned the Champions of the Flyway 2018.

They are also hoping to clinch the award for the most funding raised for this year’s conservation work.