Council condemns raptor killings
The Highland Council is adding its voice to the growing number of organisations condemning the illegal killing of 22 birds of prey in the Black Isle, including 12 by poisoning.
Leaders of the four main political groupings on the Council – SNP, Liberal Democratic, Labour and Independent - have signed a motion to be considered at the next council meeting on Thursday, 8 May.
The motion reads: “The Highland Council condemns the recent illegal killing of red kites and buzzards on the Black Isle both as wrong in itself and as an act with potential to reduce the economic benefits that wildlife tourism brings to the Highlands. The Council urges anyone with relevant information to contact Police Scotland; welcomes the actions of Scottish Land & Estates and of NFU Scotland in supporting attempts to identify the culprit(s); and commits itself to continuing to work with Community Planning Partners, through the Highland Environment Forum, to reinvigorate the fight against all wildlife crime in the Highlands.”
Council Leader Drew Hendry said: “It is appalling to hear that the number of birds found dead as a result of the incident on the Black Isle has now reached 22.
“The Highland community planning partnership specifically recognises the importance of the wildlife of the Highlands, and in particular iconic species such as Red Kites, to the economy of the area. We are committed to working with all interested parties, through the Highland Environment Forum, to stop such incidents in future.”
Councillor Deirdre Mackay said: “Apart from the risk to birds this indiscriminate use of poison also poses a risk to other animals namely dogs who are curious animals by their very nature.
“I understand that a local group of dog walkers have abandoned their usual route for fear their pets might be inadvertently exposed to the poison. It is important that all efforts are maintained to find the culprit(s) and bring them to justice. The level of reward, £27,000, underlines public outrage at this deliberate act.”
If anyone has any information in relation to this particular, or any similar incident, they are urged to make contact with their local police. If necessary this can be done anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
