£5,000 reward after working dogs and buzzards poisoned

A £5,000 reward is on offer over the poisonings of working dogs and buzzards on local estates and farms in Perthshire.

Between October 2017 and April this year, three working dogs and two buzzards died as a result of poisoning in and around the Edradynate and Pitnacree estates area in Highland Perthshire.

The most recent death involved the “appalling” poisoning of a sheepdog when it was most needed during the lambing period.

See also: Farmer offers reward for return of sheepdog and pups

A spokesman for Edradynate Estate said: “The estate is offering a £5,000 reward for anyone providing information that results in the prosecution and conviction of the perpetrator of these poisonings.”

Police Scotland said the dogs and buzzards were killed by illegal poisons which have been banned from use in the UK for many years.

A spokesman said: “The owners are understandably extremely upset at the loss of their dogs. Once again, we also find ourselves investigating the illegal killing of raptors and this is extremely disappointing.”

‘No threat to public’

Officers have searched the areas and their investigations to date would suggest there is not a wider threat to public safety.

However, all members of the public in the area are asked to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour, especially during the hours of darkness.

Anyone with information should contact Police Scotland on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.