Tayside Police have joined their Grampian counterparts and wildlife experts in probing the death of a golden eagle on an Aberdeenshire estate.
Grampian and Tayside officers and the Scottish Government rural payments and inspections directorate carried out a probe at Glenbuchat Estate, Strathdon, over the alleged use of illegal pesticides.
The inquiry began after a dead satellite-tagged golden eagle was found on that estate on March 29, and it tested positive for banned pesticide Carbofuran.
The operation also involved the National Wildlife Crime Unit, RSPB and SSPCA.
Wildlife crime officer Constable Dave MacKinnon said, “We are always very concerned when illegal pesticides are used in our countryside for the poisoning of birds of prey but I am particularly disappointed that this incident has resulted in the death of a young golden eagle.
“Our efforts in Scotland and Grampian to eradicate this type of crime over a number of years have been challenging and clearly, with this most recent incident, we still have some way to go.”
He added, “Articles have been removed from the estate and are being sent for analysis.
“Nobody has been charged in connection with this incident or other offences but inquiries are continuing.”
Bob Elliot, head of investigations at RSPB Scotland, said, “This highly toxic chemical, which it is illegal to possess, was found to have poisoned this golden eagle.
“Poisoned baits lying out in the countryside are indiscriminate, and threaten both pets, domestic livestock and even humans.”
He added, “That such potentially lethal activity continues in this day and age is an outrage, and threatens the international reputation of Scotland as a haven for wildlife and iconic species.
“Despite all agencies and partners working together to eradicate these crimes, we do not seem to be witnessing any reduction in this type of offence being committed against our world-renowned wildlife and natural heritage.”