The Scottish Gamekeepers Association (SGA) has expressed its satisfaction at the progress being made in Scotland after figures released showed another decline in wildlife crime.
Scottish Government scientific agency, Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture (SASA) yesterday (Jan 12) published official quarterly statistics highlighting a drop in the incidents of abuse of birds of prey.
The figures, which cover the whole of Scotland, up to the end of September 2011, show that such incidents fell from 22 in 2010 to 12 up to the end of September 2011.
It continues a positive trend, with 2009 figures showing 36 incidents of abuse of birds of prey in the Scottish countryside.
The Scottish Gamekeepers Association, which represents 5300 gamekeepers, stalkers, ghillies, rangers and wildlife managers is a central player in the multi-agency PAW UK, Partnership For Action Against Wildlife Crime.
It has also been unequivocal in its stance on the issue, recently handing a life ban to a former member, David Alexander Whitefield, who was found guilty of poisoning four buzzards in Lanark.
SGA Chairman Alex Hogg said that, while the policy of educating everyone who has a stake in Scotland’s countryside must continue, the figures were positive.
“These figures from SASA are further indication that the message is getting through about wildlife crime in Scotland, although even one incident is too many.
“Our organisation, like other countryside organisations, has worked very hard to get the word around and make sure people know their responsibilities.
“Hopefully this downward trend will continue.”
Of the 12 incidents reported so far in 2011, 11 are still the subject of ongoing police investigations to identify possible perpetrators.
Ends.