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Bird poisonings
10/09/2007
Figures released today show that at least 455 birds have been killed by poisoning in Scotland since May 1999.
The figures cover a mixture of species including birds of prey, corvids (crows, ravens, magpies) and other smaller birds. A total of 168 poisoned baits were also recovered over the same period.
Minister for Environment Michael Russell said:
"A few weeks ago on a visit to wildlife crime officers in Duns, I had to hold the corpse of a golden eagle.
"That bird had been deliberately killed by an individual who had laced bait with poison, and while this is the case which has received the most media attention, these figures show that it's far from an isolated incident.
"Birds of prey are magnificent creatures and wonderful assets for Scotland. Killing them isn't just a crime against the bird; it's a crime against Scotland.
"But of course, crows, ravens and their relatives are also important to Scotland's biodiversity and as with all wild birds are protected by law. I find their deliberate poisoning equally unpleasant.
"If we are to be seen as a modern, civilised and environmentally friendly country, this barbaric practice must end. I will work with all interests to control bird nuisance, and I am sympathetic to those working in the country, but poisoning is never a solution.
"I have spoken to the Justice Secretary about ways in which we can penalise offenders, and having met the wildlife crime officers themselves, I plan to ask Chief Constables about ways in which we can further support them.
"Today's figures - together with the RSPB's annual report, also published today - show the stark reality of bird poisoning in Scotland.
"It's not just a few isolated incidents, it's worryingly prevalent."
The number of birds poisoned each year is as follows:
| Year | Birds Poisoned |
|---|
| 1999* | 16 |
| 2000 | 95 |
| 2001 | 78 |
| 2002 | 29 |
| 2003 | 76 |
| 2004 | 55 |
| 2005 | 26 |
| 2006 | 50 |
| 2007** | 30 |
* = from May
**= up to the end of August
Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 as amended by the Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004 all wild birds, their nests and their eggs are protected. Derogations are in place which allow the issuing of General or Specific Licences to control certain species of birds under specific circumstances.