Appeal for information on Bird of Prey persecution incident in Louth

Following the recent reporting, recovery and laboratory testing of a protected Red Kite (Milvus milvus) bird of prey and suspected poisoned bait, the National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) are appealing to the public for information to assist in its investigation into a deliberate and unlawful persecution of wildlife incident in Louth.

A Red Kite was recovered from lands in the Dromiskin area in early August. Following laboratory testing by Regional Veterinary Laboratory and the State Laboratory under the RAPTOR protocol between these organisations and NPWS, the bird was confirmed to have a currently banned pesticide present in its system. NPWS interpretation of the test results worryingly indicates potential deliberate targeting and persecution.

The persecution of Irish birds of prey is unlawful under the 1976 Wildlife Acts, as amended, and the Birds and Habitats Regulations 2011, as amended.

The (Restrictions on use of poison bait) Regulations 2010 prohibits the use of poisoned animal based baits to target birds of prey and wildlife. Convictions under legislation can carry a fine of up to €5000 and 12 months imprisonment on summary conviction and a maximum fine of €500,000 and 3 years on conviction under indictment.

The reckless use of poisoned baits in the countryside also carries a threat to livestock, domestic pets and humans who may come in contact.

Anybody with any information on the persecution of birds of prey in the Louth area is encouraged to contact National Parks and Wildlife Service, north-eastern Division, Netterville Office, in confidence on 01 5393258 or at WildlifeEnforcement@npws.gov.ie or Dundalk Garda Station at 042 9388400.