Disposal of pesticides plea after suspected poisoning of buzzard

POLICE investigating the suspected poisoning of a buzzard in Fife have warned over the dangers of disposing of dangerous pesticides.

The raptor, which is to be examined in a post mortem, was found by a member of the public near Cupar.

The Fife Partnership against Wildlife Crime, which includes Scottish Natural Heritage, highlighted a new biocide and pesticide disposal scheme which allows farmers to get rid of any unwanted, out-of-date or revoked biocides and pesticides, for a one-off cost of 20.

PC Ian Laing, wildlife and environmental crime co-ordinator at Fife Police, said: "Fortunately, Fife has not experienced raptor poisoning as much as other areas, but this case is a concern. Once we have confirmed the cause of death, we will be able to look at the potential source of any poisons used with a view to tracing those responsible."

SNH area operations manager Kath Leys added: "We're very concerned about this suspected poisoning case in Fife.