Inadvertent poisoning of raptors through ingestion of prey killed by toxins is a well-known threat to raptor species worldwide[15][16][17] and a likely contributor to their decline in Australia.[4][18] Such toxins are frequently introduced to the environment by humans to combat pest animals and plague insects.[5][15][16][17][18] Other potential causes of decline include direct persecution by humans in the form of illegal egg collection and shooting[5] which has been recorded in a number of Australian raptor species, for example the osprey (Pandion haliaetus) in South Australia.[19] and Europe[18] and the Tasmanian wedge-tailed eagle (Aquila audax fleayi).[20]