Wildlife crime has risen 40% in Scotland, as animals are being accidentally and illegally poisoned. Of the 233 incidents, over two thirds are birds of prey.
August 25, 2011. Shocking statistics for 2010 released by Scotland's Wildlife Incident Investigation Scheme (WIIS) yesterday, revealed that animals and birds across Scotland are being accidentally or deliberately poisoned at an alarming rate. WIIS said of the 233 incidents reported, some are domestic pets but the majority of them – 69% are birds of prey. This includes red kites, kestrels, peregrine falcons, barn owls and four golden eagles.
Illegal use of pesticides
WIIS, which is operated in Scotland by Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture (SASA) Pesticides & Wildlife Branch, is responsible for investigating suspected poisoning of wildlife, beneficial insects, companion animals and livestock. In a newly released report, the agency said that in all of the reported cases, "46% tested positive for pesticide residues," from "twenty-five different pesticides," an increase of 40% over 2009.
The death of two peregrine falcons has launched a police investigation - Image by Kevin Law
What's going on over there? This is terrible.
Wildlife Preservation
