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Red Kite Poisoned in Perthshire Prompts Police Investigation

Police Scotland confirm bird of prey was killed with banned pesticide and toxic rodenticide near Braco

Red Kite, (© Christopher Teague)

Discovery near nest site
Police Scotland have launched an investigation following the discovery of a poisoned Red Kite in Perth and Kinross. The bird was found dead on 22 June 2025 near its nest to the north west of Braco. Subsequent post-mortem and toxicology testing revealed it had ingested toxic levels of rodenticide as well as the banned substance aldicarb.

Aldicarb has been illegal in the UK since 2007, with no approved products containing the substance. Its presence in this case highlights both the ongoing misuse of pesticides and the risks posed to wildlife and human safety.

Illegal and reckless poisoning
Wildlife Crime Coordinator, Detective Sergeant David Lynn, described the incident as “a very painful and distressing death” for the bird. He warned: “Legal rodenticides must be used with extreme caution to avoid the poisoning of non-target species or you may be liable to prosecution. The use of Aldicarb is an illegal and reckless act as this substance can be fatal for both animals and humans.”

Birds of prey, along with all wild birds in Scotland, are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. It is a criminal offence to intentionally or recklessly kill or injure them.

Police appeal for information
The investigation remains ongoing, with officers determined to identify those responsible. Detective Sergeant Lynn stressed: “Our investigation into this incident is continuing and we will pursue anyone who targets Scotland’s birds of prey. I would encourage anyone with any information in relation to this incident to contact us.”

He added a warning for the public: “We ask anyone using the area to be vigilant. If they find anything suspicious, don’t touch it, but do take photos and report to Police Scotland immediately on 101.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 1176 of 23 September 2025.

September 2025

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