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Punish the poisoners

The recent poisoning of a golden eagle in Peebles-shire served as a reminder of how baleful the impact of wildlife crime can be on Scotland's natural heritage. This was not an isolated incident. Last year, a record number of birds of prey were illegally poisoned. In all, there were 39 cases of pesticide abuse resulting in the death of eagles, red kites, hawks, falcons, owls, buzzards and ravens. Recently, police warned that this year's figure could be even higher.

The recent poisoning of a golden eagle in Peebles-shire served as a reminder of how baleful the impact of wildlife crime can be on Scotland's natural heritage. This was not an isolated incident. Last year, a record number of birds of prey were illegally poisoned.