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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“I remain determined to tackle outdated practices and attitudes,” she continued.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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Reporting service for dead wild birds updated

News Story 1
 The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has updated its online reporting service for dead wild birds.

The new version allows those reporting a dead bird to drop a pin on a map when reporting the location. It also includes a wider range of wild bird species groups to select from when describing the bird.

The online service, which helps APHA to monitor the spread of diseases such as avian influenza, can be accessed here. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
NI chief vet urges bluetongue vigilance

Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer (CVO) has urged farmers to be vigilant for signs of bluetongue, after the Animal and Plant Health Agency warned there was a very high probability of further cases in Great Britain.

There have been 126 confirmed cases of bluetongue virus serotype 3 in England since November 2023, with no cases reported in Northern Ireland. The movement of live ruminants from Great Britain to Northern Ireland is currently suspended.

According to the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), the virus is most likely to enter Northern Ireland through infected animals or germplasm (semen or ova) being imported.

Brian Dooher, Northern Ireland's CVO, said: "Surveillance for this disease within Northern Ireland has been increased to assist with detection at the earliest opportunity which will facilitate more effective control measures."

Farmers should report any suspicions of the disease to their private veterinary practitioner, the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or their local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.