Police confirm 13 dead birds of prey found in Ross-shire
The police are today continuing with their enquiries into birds of prey being found dead within the Ross-shire area.
Following multi-agency searches, which initially began on Monday, further dead birds have been recovered, increasing the total to 13, consisting of nine red kites and four buzzards.
The birds were located within an approximate two square mile area to the south east of Conon Bridge around Conon Brae, Balvail, Leanaig and Alcaig.
Seven of the recovered birds have undergone post mortems and six of these have confirmed as having been poisoned. Due to this discovery the initial inquiry has now become a wildlife crime.
Police Scotland is working in close collaboration with partner agencies, RSPB, SSPCA, Scottish Agricultural College (SCA) and Science & Advice for Scottish Agriculture (SASA).
Partner agencies would seek to remind members of the public that if anyone finds any further dead birds or animals in the area they are asked to make a note of its location and inform the police on 101. Under no circumstances should anyone touch or attempt to recover any dead animal.
Police are keen to speak to anyone who has any information about the incident and would encourage them to contact Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://www.crimestoppers-uk.org/. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.
