Scottish Land & Estates welcomes reduction in wildlife crime in Scotland

Press Release

A significant decrease in wildlife crime offences in Scotland has been welcomed by Scottish Land & Estates (SLE).

The rural business organisation reacted to the publication of the Scottish Government’s Wildlife Crime in Scotland Report 2022-23, which shows a 23% reduction in overall wildlife crime offences compared to the previous year, down to a total of 220 offences.

Poaching and coursing was the most common offence type in 2022-2023 (108 offences), with fish poaching related to around half of these offences (55 out of 108; 51%).

Raptor persecution remains at a historic low in 2022-23. 12 of the 22 offences related to Operation Tantallon which focuses on the illegal laundering of peregrine falcons in the Lothians and Scottish Borders; with an additional 2 offences relating to peregrine laundering in Forth Valley.

The report comes against further strengthening of Scotland’s robust legal framework in this area, which includes the toughest penalties for wildlife crime offences in the UK and the civil sanction regimes operated by NatureScot, such as the ability to revoke general licences.

Ross Ewing, Director of Moorland at SLE, said:
“This report provides clear and compelling evidence that wildlife crime in Scotland is in decline, thanks to stringent enforcement measures and the collective efforts of land managers and law enforcement agencies. 

“Scotland has the toughest penalties for wildlife crime anywhere in the UK, and NatureScot’s ability to revoke general licences is a strong deterrent to wrongdoing. We are pleased to see that these measures are having the desired effect.

“Almost half of all offences relate to poaching and coursing and that is a matter of concern, particularly in relation to coursing of hares, rabbits and of deer.

“Instances of raptor persecution remain at historically low levels, which is positive. 

“It is also important to put these numbers into perspective. Of the 22 recorded raptor persecution offences, 14 relate to peregrine falcon laundering, an issue that is entirely separate from land management practices, including grouse moor management. 

“The remaining eight offences include a single disturbance case and seven instances of raptor killings or shootings. Notably, the report does not draw any conclusions regarding land use associated with these offences, but an analysis of locations confirms that most are completely unrelated to grouse moor management. This presents a starkly different picture from the RSPB’s 2023 Birdcrime Report, an unofficial report which we have previously challenged for misrepresenting the situation on the ground.”

The report also notes a steady reduction in investigations involving the Scottish SPCA’s Special Investigations Unit from 2018-19 to 2022-23, further underscoring the downward trend in wildlife crime across Scotland.

Mr. Ewing concluded:
“We must recognise the significant progress that has been made in tackling wildlife crime. The ongoing collaboration between land managers and law enforcement is playing a key role in maintaining this positive trajectory. SLE remains committed to working constructively with all stakeholders to ensure that Scotland continues to set the standard for responsible land and wildlife management. Rural businesses and communities are making a crucial contribution to addressing the nature and biodiversity crises, and working together to combat wildlife crime is a shared responsibility for everyone.”