Wildlife poisoning at new high

ILLEGAL poisoning of wildlife has reached record levels, according to figures published today.

Last year saw 190 suspected incidents of animals poisoned by pesticides, the highest total for ten years and 13 more than in 2006.

More than 50 of the cases involved birds of prey.

The cause of death was determined in nearly 100 incidents – and 45 per cent of all the incidents indicated exposure to pesticides.

Environment minister Mike Russell said the report by the Scottish Agriculture Science Agency, painted a "stark" picture.

He said: "Other animals have been victims, including other birds, badgers, foxes and even pet cats and dogs. Using pesticides to poison an animal is cruel, illegal, and in the case of pets, very upsetting for owners."