Police in Inverness are appealing for information about the recent disturbance of bird of prey nests and the unexplained disappearance of adult birds from their nests in Moy Forest.
They say the nests in the woodland south of the Highland capital appear to have been the subject of illegal activity, over a number of weeks. During May four buzzard nests have all been abandoned and one of these has evidence of disturbance. The incidents were reported to the police at the end of last month.
A further nest site containing breeding goshawks has also failed with adult birds appearing to have abandoned it without reason.
The forest is managed by Forestry Enterprise Scotland (FES), part of the Forestry Commission, who are monitoring the vulnerable nest sites.
Police Scotland's Inspector Mike Middlehurst, Wildlife Crime officer, said: “Raptor persecution is an ongoing issue for the Highlands and we need the public to come forward and work with us to try and eradicate this blight on the Highlands. Police Scotland with partners in the Highland Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime has worked to increase public confidence in reporting wildlife offences which has resulted in increased reporting.
“In this case a partner agency has a clearly documented history of birds being at this location. I appeal to the public to come forward with information which may assist us in detection of wildlife crime which either relates to this incident or any other.”
Giles Brockman, Environment Manager for Forest Enterprise Scotland said: “I am really disappointed to see this case of deliberate persecution on the National Forest Estate. Forest Enterprise Scotland will work closely with partners to stop this unacceptable practice.”
Detective Chief Superintendent, Sean Scott, Police Scotland’s Wildlife Crime lead said: “Police Scotland is committed to combatting wildlife crime, working closely with partners nationally and locally to tackle the persecution of Scotland’s iconic birds of prey. We will continue to use the latest available investigative techniques and tools to pursue those who commit raptor crime."
Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers 0800 555 111.
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