Text entered

Red Kites poisoned in Northumberland

Northumbria Police

2 July 2010


Northumbria Police is appealing for information after rare birds were confirmed as being poisoned in West Northumberland.
In Februaryofficers were called to a report of two deadRed Kitesfound on farmland in the Steel area of Hexham.
PC Michael Brown, wildlife crime officer for West Northumberland, examined the birds and couldn't find any trace of gunshot injuries.
Suspecting the birds had been poisoned he contacted Natural England to carry out further tests.
Wildlife officers from Natural England collected the kite bodies and they were taken to Newcastle Veterinary Laboratories Agency (VLA) for post mortem examination. Analysis has now confirmed the birds had been poisoned.
PC Michael Brown said: "In the past Red Kites have been persecuted and we need to find out who, and how they have done this. Red Kites are a protected species under current legislation and anyone found guilty of killing them could face a custodial sentence or a heavy fine.
"I'd appeal for anyone who knows anything at all about these incidents to contact us. You don't have to give your name and can remain completely anonymous, the information as to how these animals were poisoned is what's key."
Regional Director for Natural England Rob Aubrook said: "Thanks to a re-introduction programme started in 1989 by Natural England and the RSPB, there are more than 700 pairs of Red Kites in England. However, these beautiful birds are still vulnerable to illegal persecution and accidental poisoning.
"Natural England works to protect wildlife from accidental poisoning by encouraging the safe use of modern rat poisons. As our recent Wildlife Crime Forum Conference also demonstrates, we will continue to work in partnership with enforcement and conservation agencies across the region to prevent further harm to the many diverse species making their homes in the North East."
James Leonard, Investigations Officer at the RSPB said: "The kites probably died after eating carrion laced with poison. This type of poisoning is both barbaric and indiscriminate; not only does it pose a risk to birds of prey, but also to other wildlife, domestic animals and users of the countryside."
Anyone with any information about the two incidents, or any animal crime in the Northumbria area, is asked to contact police on 03456 043 043 ext 69191 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.