Politics put aside as Highland Council condemns raptor killings
HIGHLAND Councillors have put politics aside to roundly condemn the growing death toll of birds of prey on the Black Isle.
Leaders of the four main political groupings on the council – SNP, Liberal Democratic, Labour and Independent - have signed a motion to be considered at the next council meeting on Thursday May 8.
The council wants to add its voice to the growing number of organisations condemning the illegal killing of 22 birds of prey around Conon Bridge - 16 red kites and six buzzards.
The motion reads: "The Highland Council condemns the recent illegal killing of red kites and buzzards on the Black Isle both as wrong in itself and as an act with potential to reduce the economic benefits that wildlife tourism brings to the Highlands.
"The council urges anyone with relevant information to contact Police Scotland; welcomes the actions of Scottish Land and Estates and of NFU Scotland in supporting attempts to identify the culprit(s); and commits itself to continuing to work with Community Planning Partners, through the Highland Environment Forum, to reinvigorate the fight against all wildlife crime in the Highlands."
Council Leader Drew Hendry (SNP) said: "It is appalling to hear that the number of birds found dead as a result of the incident on the Black Isle has now reached 22. The Highland community planning partnership specifically recognises the importance of the wildlife of the Highlands, and in particular iconic species such as red kites, to the economy of the area. We are committed to working with all interested parties, through the Highland Environment Forum, to stop such incidents in future."
Depute Leader Councillor Alston (Liberal Democrat) said: "It is disturbing that so many birds have been found dead, but I’m heartened that so many people are coming together to put up a reward for information. This demonstrates the strong attachment that people have for Scotland’s wildlife and their determination to put an end to these abhorrent acts."
Councillor Deirdre Mackay (Labour), said: "Apart from the risk to birds this indiscriminate use of poison also poses a risk to other animals namely dogs who are curious animals by their very nature.
"I understand that a local group of dog walkers have abandoned their usual route for fear their pets might be inadvertently exposed to the poison.
"It is important that all efforts are maintained to find the culprit(s) and bring them to justice. The level of reward, £27,000, underlines public outrage at this deliberate act."
Councillor Carolyn Caddick, the council’s Red Kite Champion, said: "The growing catalogue of bird deaths in the Black Isle is grim and distressing. It is clear that acts like this detract from Scotland’s appeal as a major wildlife tourism destination. They can also damage the local economy as many locals and visitors are keen to see these magnificent birds in the wider countryside."
Councillor Jaci Douglas (Independent) said: "The Independent Group is keen that this serious issue has full cross party support. We feel it is vital that there is a consistent and clear message that this type of crime is completely unacceptable, and that we work together to eradicate it entirely."
• If anyone has any information in relation to this particular, or any similar incident, they are urged to make contact with their local police. If necessary this can be done anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
