Bird poisoning on the rise in Scotland

The rise led to Environment Minister Roseanna Cunningham describing it as a ‘wake-up call’ for those who thought such incidents were on the wane.

Maps published by the Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime (PAW) outlining the number and general location of confirmed poisonings in 2009, revealed there were 22 poisoning incidents resulting in 27 dead birds of prey, including 19 buzzards, four red kites and two golden eagles.

Ms Cunningham said the latest PAW map clearly indicated poisonings remained a problem in some parts of Scotland. The figures were a ‘disappointing return’ to the high levels of several years ago and ‘simply incomprehensible’.

Duncan Orr-Ewing, head of species and land management for RSPB Scotland said: “The number of illegal poisoning incidents discovered in 2009 is one of the highest on record. Experience tells us that this represents just a fraction of the true scale of this illegal activity, which persist with shocking regularity in some areas of Scotland.”

Lord Hopetoun, Director of the Scottish Rural Property and Business Association (SRPBA) said: “I am hugely disappointed that numbers have shown an increase but, as with many forms of wildlife crime, increasing awareness of the issues will lead to a greater number of reported incidents and follow-up, with more police time dedicated to these types of offences.”

Members of the public are warned not to touch any suspected poisoned animals or baits and to report them to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or contact their local wildlife police officer.

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