The report published by the Scottish Agricultural Science Agency (SASA) states that last year the agency dealt with 190 suspected pesticide poisoning incidents, up from 144 incidents in 1997.  More than 50 of these related to birds of prey. 

This report comes in the wake of a review of wildlife crime published by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary for Scotland (HMICS) and Inspectorate of Prosecution in Scotland (IPS) last week.  Amongst other measures, the review recommended that all police forces should have a full-time wildlife coordinator in post. 
 
Environment Minister Michael Russell said:

"Once again, I have been presented with information that presents a stark picture of crimes against Scotland's unique natural heritage.

"SASA's report highlights a particularly high level of raptor poisoning but other animals have been victims, including other birds, badgers, foxes and even pet cats and dogs.

"It is absolutely clear that this kind of incident must stop. Using pesticides to poison an animal is cruel, illegal, and in the case of pets, very upsetting for owners.

"Last week Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary (Scotland) (HMICS) and the Inspectorate of Prosecution Scotland (IPS) made a number of recommendations on the investigation and prosecution of these incidents.

"I have no doubt that their review will help greatly in getting to grips with the unacceptable level of wildlife crime across Scotland. I intend to set out my detailed response to the review shortly.

"While there have been positive signs of change, including a growing willingness from countryside groups to work with the authorities, more work needs to be done.”

For information on Holyrood’s forthcoming Wildlife Crime conference on Tuesday 10 June see:

http://conferences.holyrood.com/content/view/426/