Top cop says look for signs of wildlife crime
A high-ranking police officer has urged locals in the Strath and beyond to be mindful of wildlife and be on the alert for anyone who may be out to cause harm.
The appeal was issued recently by Chief Inspector Tom Leonard, Police Scotland’s area commander for Perth and Kinross.
CI Leonard said: “Although any officer can investigate wildlife crime, every division in Police Scotland has a wildlife crime liaison officer and there is also a network of part- time wildlife crime officers across the force.
“These officers can be contacted to report a crime or to seek advice on wildlife crime matters.
“Call Police Scotland on 101 to report a wildlife crime or email us via Contactus@ scotland.pnn.police.uk.
“If you suspect a wildlife crime has taken place report any suspicious activity as soon as possible to Police Scotland on 101, or 999 if it is an emergency, and ask to speak to a wildlife crime officer if one is available.
“Take note of the date, time, and weather conditions. If possible, identify a map reference using the My Three Words
app or, ideally, a GPS reading of both the incident scene and location from where you witnessed the incident.
“Note a description of those involved including gender, age, height, clothing, etc.
“Write down any vehicle registration numbers, make, model, and colour that may be involved.
“Identify other witnesses and obtain their name and contact details.
“If possible, video or photograph the scene or make a rough sketch.
“Cover up any suspected poisoned baits or victims to prevent any animal or person from coming into contact with them.”
The definition of wildlife crime covers the illegal disturbance, destruction, theft and sale of animals and plants both in the countryside and urban areas, and also the damage and destruction of protected habitats.
Some examples include damage to Sites of Special Scientific Interest, the illegal use of traps and snares and removal of birds’ nests from the eves of houses at certain times of the year.
There are currently seven specific wildlife crime priorities in both Scotland and the UK as a whole.
These are crimes relating to bats, badger persecution, raptor persecution, freshwater pearl mussels persecution, Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species issues, poaching and cyber-enabled wildlife crime.
CI Leonard went on to stress: “Do report. Even if you are not sure – report the incident. The evidence of wildlife crime is not always obvious.”
He added: “Do not interfere with legal countryside practices such as the legal use of traps and snares, hides, high seats, and shooting butts.
“And never approach suspects or intervene if you suspect someone is committing a wildlife crime – you may put yourself in danger.
“The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal service also has a dedicated wildlife and environmental crime unit.
“Working together we aim to ensure our officers are trained to the highest level to ensure thorough investigation and prosecution of wildlife crime.”
More information can be found on the website www.scotland.police.uk.