Pesticides Involved in Almost Half of Wildlife Poisoning
In total, 74 of the 159 incidents showed the use of pesticides, (which amounts to 47 per cent) with 36 out of the 74 of those categorised as the abuse of pesticides i.e. deliberate and illegal attempts to poison animals.
The 'Pesticide Poisoning of Animals in 2009' report from the Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture (SASA) shows that incidents investigated included:
The approved use of pesticides where a buzzard was poisoned by slug pellets even though the product had been applied in accordance with the label instructions
The abuse of pesticides where a poisoned golden eagle was discovered along with a sheep carcase found to be laced with the same pesticide that killed the eagle
The unspecified used of pesticides where a colony of honeybees died after being exposed to a pesticide normally used to control wasps
The incorrect storage of pesticides
Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment Richard Lochhead said: "This report highlights the devastating impact that the irresponsible use of pesticides can have on our countryside and I applaud the Wildlife Incident Investigation Scheme in Scotland for their work in investigating these incidents throughout the year.
"The evidence provided by the scheme is also a vital tool exposing crimes against wildlife. The figures suggest that birds of prey continue to be the victims of deliberate poisoning and we will continue to work with the Partnership for Action against Wildlife Crime in Scotland in our efforts to put a stop to these illegal actions.
"Scotland's natural environment is one of our most valuable assets and it is essential that we protect it and ensure that pesticide use is regulated appropriately. The Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture plays a vital role in monitoring this and helps make our countryside a safer place for us all."
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
