A Tayside man has admitted causing unnecessary suffering to cattle and sheep on his farm over a 16-month period.
Inspectors found more than 50 decomposing sheep in fields, sheds and a trailer on G&A Pattullo’s land in Lintrathen, Angus, in 2013.
Ex-farmer George Pattullo admitted animal welfare charges at Forfar Sheriff Court on Thursday.
Pattullo, 67, was appearing for the second day of a trial before Sheriff Gregor Murray.
His wife, Allison Pattullo, had appeared on all charges but her not guilty pleas were accepted by the Crown.
The trial previously heard John Duncan and John Halliday from the Scottish Government’s Rural Payments and Inspections Directorate visited Middle Coul Farm on April 16 2013 and found 150 sheep in “poor condition”.
One of 50 sheep carcasses was found in a domestic wheelie bin, and others were in various places and states of decomposition.
Animal health inspector James Munro said: “There was hard feed that was put out to the sheep in a bag on the first day we were there…
“It sounds ridiculous but they absolutely stampeded towards it.”
Pattullo’s defence agent, Brian Bell, advised Sheriff Murray of Pattullo’s change of plea.
Depute fiscal Robbie Brown told the court: “Given Mr Munro’s evidence there is some more detail that would be helpful for sentencing.
“I will provide a narrative to Mr Bell, which will be sent to your lordship before the next calling.”
The solicitor confirmed Pattullo is no longer farming.
Sheriff Murray told the accused: “As I’m sure you’re aware, you have pled guilty to serious offences.
“All options remain open to me.”
He was reminded that the sheriff can make an order disqualifying the keeping of any animals.
Sentence was deferred for reports to February 16, and Pattullo is ordained to appear.
Charges admitted
Pattullo, of Birch Crescent, Blairgowrie, admitted causing unnecessary suffering to 19 cattle and approximately 250 sheep between December 1 2012 and April 25 2013, and failing to seek attention for animals suffering from liver fluke, parasitic gastroenteritis, and lice infestation.
He failed to provide adequate supplies of nutrition and water over winter, causing a very high mortality rate.
He failed to remove carcasses, placing animals at risk of infection, all under Section 19 (2) of the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006.
Pattullo further admitted failing to provide dry bedding and a drained area over the same dates, and failing to provide adequate grazing, a suitable diet, and fresh water, under Section 24 of the Act.
Not guilty pleas to alleged offences under animal by-product and cattle identification legislation were accepted by the Crown.
