A peregrine falcon has been found dead in an illegal trap near a village on the outskirts of Edinburgh. The protected bird of prey was found about 100 yards from a public path, on the edge of woodland, south of Wester Bavelaw, near Balerno. The peregrine is the biggest species of falcon found in Scotland
The bird was discovered in a baited pole trap on November 23, according to the police, who requested anyone with knowledge to come forward. “Peregrine falcons are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act and forensic tests are being done as part of our ongoing inquiries to establish the full circumstances,” stated Det Con Daniel Crilley, wildlife crime officer.
The incident, which occurred simultaneously with the allegation of a golden eagle going missing in the Scottish Borders, was described by the RSPB as “another shocking raptor persecution”. “There can be very few people in the area where this peregrine died with the motive, knowledge, and equipment to target a protected bird of prey in such a callous fashion,” stated Ian Thomson, head of investigations at RSPB Scotland. “We echo Police Scotland’s appeal for information.on his desk….
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