Badger killing sparks Police Scotland appeal; Highland-based wildlife crime officer appeals for information over illegal persecution of the animal in woods near Duncanston, Dingwall, Ross-shire
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
AN illegal badger killing in a Ross community has sparked a police investigation.
Police Scotland's Highland-based wildlife crime officer PC Dominic Corcoran has appealed for information after being "left in no doubt whatsoever" that the animal was killed in a deliberate act.
The mammal's corpse was discovered within Oak Wood, near Duncanston, Dingwall, on Christmas Day.
It is thought the animal was killed sometime between Monday, December 21 and Christmas Day.
PC Corcoran said "Badgers are protected under legislation meaning that it is an offence to disturb an inhabited sett or take, kill or injure the animal.
"The circumstances in which the badger was discovered leaves me in no doubt whatsoever that human involvement is a factor in its death and/or disposal.
"Badger persecution is a national wildlife crime priority. Police Scotland will investigate any suspected offences against badgers and deal with those responsible robustly".
Anybody with any information is urged to contact Alness Police Station using 101 or anonymously via crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
