SLE statement on The RSPB’s Birdcrime 2021 report
Press ReleaseFollowing publication of the RSPB’s Birdcrime 2021 report, Scottish Land & Estates has issued the following statement.
“We condemn, in the strongest possible terms, any act of raptor persecution or bird crime. Our members are wholly committed to a zero tolerance of illegal activity. Anyone who commits a bird crime should be punished accordingly and in Scotland we have some of the most stringent laws in place as a deterrent.
“What is disappointing is that the RSPB report does not reflect progress. In Scotland such crimes have generally over recent years dropped to historically low levels and to date this year we are unaware of any incidents related to game shooting.
“In the case of Hen Harriers, Scotland still remains a stronghold for the species compared with other parts of the UK. Meanwhile, Golden eagles are at breeding saturation levels in parts of the Highlands, to the extent that surplus chicks are being translocated to boost the South of Scotland population."