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Report highlights extent of wildlife crime in Scotland
Salmon jumping
Figures suggest that fish poaching remains the most commonly reported type of wildlife crime.

Fish poaching remains the most commonly reported offence

The number of recorded wildlife crimes in Scotland fell by 20 per cent in the five-year period to 2015 according to the annual wildlife crime report.

Published on Friday (25 November), the report collates data from the Scottish Government, the Crown Office, Police Scotland and all members of the Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime Scotland.

While the latest figures show a positive five-year trend (2010-2015), the report highlights an increase of 11 per cent in recorded wildlife crime between 2013-14 and 2014-15.

“This fourth wildlife crime annual report continues to shine a spotlight on the ongoing issues we are facing to protect Scotland’s wildlife from illegal activity,” commented Roseanna Cunningham, cabinet secretary for environment, climate change and land reform.

“Responding to feedback, this report now contains even more detailed data as we strive to improve the big picture view of the true extent of wildlife crime in Scotland.”

In 2014-15, the report shows there were 284 recorded wildlife crime offences in Scotland, compared to 255 in 2013-2014.

Figures suggest that fish poaching remains the most commonly reported type of wildlife crime, with 90 recorded offences in the period 2013-2014.

Ms Cunningham recently instructed a review of satellite tagging data to discover why so many tagged birds of prey are going astray.

“I remain determined to tackle outdated practices and attitudes,” she continued. “Scotland’s wildlife is for everyone to enjoy; not for criminals to destroy for their own ends. The Scottish Government will use all of the tools available to enable our law enforcement colleagues to bring those responsible to account.”

Image (C) Walter Baxter

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Cold-water dip to raise funds for Vetlife

News Story 1
 The veterinary mental health charity Vetlife is inviting the veterinary community to join it for a sponsored cold-water dip.

The event will take place at Walpole Bay, Margate, on 17 May during Mental Health Awareness Week. Participants of all abilities can join in the challenge and are advised to bring a towel, a hot drink, a snack, and warm clothes to get changed into afterwards.

Those taking part are being asked to try to raise 100 each to support the work of the charity.

Details about how to take part can be found here. 

Click here for more...
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Bluetongue low vector period ends

In an update to its bluetongue guidance, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has announced that the seasonal low vector period for the disease has ended.

With winter over, Defra is planning for a possible increase in cases as midges become more active. It has warned that farms along the east coast of England from Norfolk to Kent, and along the south coast from Kent to Devon, are at highest risk from infected midges blown over from northern Europe.

Since the virus was detected in England in November 2023, there have been 126 confirmed cases. The most recent case to be confirmed was on 1 March 2024.

Farmers are asked to continue to frequently monitor their livestock and ensure their animals and land are registered with the Animal and Plant Health Agency.