Police step up fight against wildlife crime

Residents in Perth and Kinross have been told police officers are stepping up their actions against wildlife crime.

Last week, Police Scotland launched its new wildlife crime investigators course in a bid to tackle the growing problem.

CI Ian Scott, area commander for Perth and Kinross, said this will cover a wide range of wildlife offences.

He said:“To emphasise our commitment to Scotland’s natural environment, Police Scotland has launched a new wildlife crime investigators course to enhance capability across the country in this complex area of local policing.

“Wildlife crime covers a wide range of offending from badger baiting to raptor persecution, freshwater pearl mussel theft, to hare coursing and salmon poaching.

“It includes the illegal disturbance, destruction, theft and sale of animals, birds and plants both in the countryside and urban areas, and includes the destruction of and damage to protected habitats.

“Wildlife crime poses significant harm to the species targeted by the criminals, as well as the communities who rely on wildlife for employment and tourism.”

He continued:“There are currently six specific wildlife crime priorities in Scotland - bat persecution, badger persecution, bird of prey persecution, freshwater pearl mussels, Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species issues, and poaching and coursing.

“And the penalties for such crimes can be severe. “For instance, for every freshwater pearl mussel killed, taken or injured, a fine not exceeding £5000 or six months in custody may apply.

“The Crown and Procurator Fiscal Service also has a dedicated wildlife and environmental crime unit.

“Working together we aim to ensure out officers are trained to the highest level to ensure thorough investigation and prosecution of wildlife crime.”

More information can be found online at www. scotland.police.uk/contact-us/report-wildlife-crime