Police Scotland, along with RSPB Scotland, are urging members of the public to report any suspicious activity around wildlife reserves or in open countryside, to help prevent the theft of, in particular, wild bird eggs at this time of year.
All wild birds, their nests and their eggs are protected by law.
Wildlife Crime Detective Inspector, Paul Riley stated:
“Egg collectors often drive all around the country in search of vulnerable locations. When targeting species, thieves will often park away from a site and approach on foot or pedal cycle usually in the late evening or early morning”.
“They may have been around all day locating a nest site so they can quickly approach and take the eggs. They favour certain dates for particular species and locations and will return to places where they have been successful in the past”.
“Collectors can devote their life to the pursuit of eggs and can become obsessed with the practice. They usually take the whole clutch of eggs, and may return for a second clutch. Rare species of birds are often targeted”. The activities of such criminals can have serious consequences for the survival of some of our rarest bird species”.
“Nature reserves are a prime target for egg thieves and staff work closely with officers and the RSPB Investigations Section to report suspicious activity”.
“Please assist us in preventing wildlife crime – report suspicious activity to Police Scotland on 101”.
Alternatively if you wish to remain anonymous information can be passed to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Wildlife Crime also includes the illegal disturbance, destruction, theft and sale of animals and plants both in the countryside and urban areas, and includes the destruction of and damage to protected habitats.
Police Scotland suggest the following if you suspect a wildlife crime is/has taken place:
DO:
- Report any suspicious activity as soon as possible to Police Scotland on 101 or 999 – ask to speak to a Wildlife Crime Officer if one is available.
- Take a note of the date, time and weather conditions.
- If possible, identify a map reference or ideally a GPS reading of both the incident scene and location from where you witnessed the incident.
- Note a description of person/s involved including gender, age, height, clothing etc.
- Write down any vehicle registration numbers, make, model, and colour that may be involved.
- Identify other witnesses and obtain their name and contact details.
- If possible, video or photograph the scene, or make a rough sketch.
- Cover up any suspected poisoned baits or victims to prevent any animal / person coming into contact with them.
- Do report. Even if you are not sure – report the incident. The evidence of wildlife crime is not always obvious.
DO NOT:
- Do not disturb the scene by moving items or walking about unnecessarily.
- Do not touch dead animals or birds, especially if you suspect that poison may have been used.
- Do not interfere with legal countryside practices such as the legal use of traps and snares, hides, high seats and shooting butts.
NEVER:
- Never approach suspects or intervene if you suspect someone is committing a wildlife crime – you may put yourself in danger.
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