Police probe poisoned buzzard in Fife
Police in Fife are investigating the discovery of a poisoned buzzard in woods to the north of Ballingry in April.
Initial inquiries suggested the bird had died of natural causes. However, toxicology tests have now confirmed it was killed by a banned pesticide.
Police believe the highly toxic chemical was used to produce poisoned baits.
The buzzard was found in an area used by dog walkers.
Police Scotland have described the crime as "highly irresponsible" and are appealing for help from the public.
Det Insp Colin Robson, of Police Scotland, said: "The bird was found on land in an area commonly used by dog walkers. From the toxicology results, I believe it is probable that the bird has fed on an animal carcass deliberately laced with this poison.
"Such an act is both illegal and highly irresponsible in an area regularly used by members of the public, and the placing out of poison baits like this is indiscriminate in its victims.
"This illegal chemical is highly toxic, and the ingestion of even minute quantities by a wild animal or a pet is likely to have fatal consequences.
"Although relatively remote, I would urge anyone who frequents this area to contact the police if they saw anyone or anything suspicious around this time or have knowledge of this or similar incidents."
Ian Thomson, head of investigations at RSPB Scotland said: "The recent incident on the Black Isle, where 22 birds of prey were killed, showed very clearly the horrendous impact that the illegal use of poisons can have on wildlife.
"It is of great concern that someone has placed a bait laced with this illegal chemical out in the countryside in an area well-used by the public and close to our own nature reserve at Loch Leven. I urge anyone who has information about this incident to contact the police as soon as possible."
Brent Meakin, Forestry Commission Scotland's district manager for the Lowlands said: "It is appalling that individuals are carrying out this illegal and barbaric practice.
"The persecution of raptors must stop. Any poisoning of these birds is one too many, no matter the species. We will continue to work with the Police and other agencies to stamp out this activity.
"The commission would also like to ask the public for their help as they too can be our eyes and ears and report any suspicious activity."