Big fall in birds of prey poisoned
The number of bird of prey poisoning incidents in Scotland has decreased significantly, according to the latest 'hotspot map' for 2012.
The maps published today by the Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime (PAW) Scotland, show the number and general location of confirmed illegal poisonings in 2012, and cumulative figures for 2008 to 2012.
A total of three poisoning incidents were recorded in 2012 resulting in the deaths of three birds of prey: two buzzards and a golden eagle. This compares to 10 incidents and 16 birds of prey poisoned in 2011 – a drop in incident numbers of 70 per cent.
Environment Minister and chair of PAW Scotland Paul Wheelhouse said: "I very much welcome the significant reduction in the number of birds of prey poisoned which I hope signals the real change in attitude that is required to end this outdated and cruel practice.
"2013 is the Year of Natural Scotland, and our birds of prey are both a vital part of the natural environment and a stunning spectacle which attract visitors to our countryside from home and abroad.
"It is our duty to protect them and I believe that new measures brought in by the Scottish Government over a year ago – which mean that landowners and managers can no longer turn a blind eye to offences against wild birds on their land – are a major deterrent to those who think they are above the law."
He added: "While it remains frustrating that a small number of people continue to illegally persecute birds of prey, this substantial decline is testament to the good work undertaken by the PAW Scotland partners to tackle the issue of raptor poisoning.
"There has been real progress but we will not be complacent. I am determined to stamp out these practices once and for all and will remain vigilant to any change in approach being taken by those who seek to persecute raptors."
