SLE statement on illegal killing of a goshawk

The illegal killing of a goshawk in Perthshire has been condemned by Scottish Land & Estates.

The rural business organisation commented following the conclusion of proceedings at Perth Sheriff Court today. The incident itself took place in February 2024.

Ross Ewing, Director of Moorland and Special Projects at Scottish Land & Estates, said:

“The illegal killing of goshawk, a protected bird of prey, is a shocking incident and is one that we, and others across the rural land management sector, wholeheartedly condemn.

“We support the work of Police Scotland and government partners in seeking to curb wildlife crime in all its forms.

“Offences such as this by a tiny minority cast a shadow on the outstanding work that estates, gamekeepers and land managers undertake for wildlife and the environment on a daily basis. Instances of raptor persecution remain at historically low levels and it is important that this collective progress is maintained and continued.”

On 17 March 2026 at Perth Sheriff Court, Russell Mason pleaded guilty to the illegal killing of a goshawk. Sentencing took place today (24 April 2026) when he was given a 200-hour Community Payback Order for killing the goshawk and fined £890 for firearm offences.