Scotland bird of prey poisonings fall
Image - Tom Byrne
Poisonings of birds of prey in Scotland fell by more than half last year after the introduction of a new law under which landowners and managers could be prosecuted for poisonings actually committed by gamekeepers and contractors who are responsible to them. Ten known poisonings resulting in 16 known deaths were reported in 2011, as compared to 22 known poisonings and 26 known deaths in 2010.
Commenting on the news, Environment Minister Stewart Stevenson said "This is the fourth year we have published these maps and I very much welcome the reduction in poisoning numbers. I hope this proves to be the beginning of a continuing reduction in such cases, leading to the end of this outdated, dangerous and cruel practice. Birds of prey are a key part of our ecosystems and a magnificent spectacle in our countryside. They are valued by locals and visitors alike."
Also commenting, Head of Species and Land Management for RSPB Scotland Duncan Orr-Ewing expressed the hope that the drop in poisonings ”should also be reflected in an increase in the populations and ranges of some of our most vulnerable species, including golden eagles, hen harriers and red kites."
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
