Police investigate illegal poisoning of dogs and buzzards in Scotland

Edradnyate Estate had its shooting licence restricted last year following the deaths of birds of prey

The illegal killing of raptors is 'extremely disappointing', Police Scotland said (RSPB)

Police in Scotland have launched an investigation after three working dogs and two buzzards were “deliberately poisoned”.

The incidents all took place within six months between October 2017 and April this year on the Edradynate and nearby Pitnacree sporting estates in Perthshire.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "The owners are understandably extremely upset at the loss of their dogs.

"Once again, we also find ourselves investigating the illegal killing of raptors and this is extremely disappointing.

"The poisons which have been used in both cases are illegal poisons and have been banned from use in the UK for many years.”

They added: "We have searched the areas and our investigations to date would suggest that there is not a wider threat to public safety.

"However, all members of the public in the area are asked to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour, especially during the hours of darkness.”

An RSPB Scotland spokesperson told The Independent: “There have been numerous incidents of wildlife persecution in this area going back several years. In 2015 two buzzards were found poisoned, in 2011 two buzzards, and one carrion crow were found poisoned, and two pheasant baits were found, in 2010 one red kite was found poisoned and in 2009 one tawny owl and five buzzards were found poisoned."

In September last year the Edradynate Estate, which offers game bird shooting, had its license restricted by Scottish Natural Heritage for three years amid allegations of wildlife crimes against birds.

A spokeswoman for the estate said: "These are appalling incidents that have affected local estates and farms.

"We reported a number of these incidents to Police Scotland and have been working closely with them to provide help to the investigation but in spite of this, we have most recently seen the terrible death by poisoning of a sheepdog when it was most needed during the lambing period."

“We would urge anyone with information, especially if they see anything suspicious late at night, to contact Police Scotland as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.