Tougher bird poison sentence plea

Version 0 of 1.

RSPB Scotland has called for tougher sentences for people caught killing birds of prey.

A report by the charity has revealed that 2006 was the worst year for poisonings and illegal trappings since the start of the 1980s.

Out of nearly 100 allegations made to the RSPB and wildlife crime officers, more than 40 were confirmed and seven resulted in convictions.

Last month, a golden eagle carcass was discovered in the Borders.

The RSPB is calling for tougher sentences and a better understanding in courts of the seriousness of the crimes.

Police are still hunting for the killers of a female golden eagle found in Peebleshire last month.

It was one of the only breeding pair in the Borders. Their chick is expected to survive.

A Â£10,000 reward, supplied from public donations, is being offered for a conviction in that case.

Environment Minister Mike Russell has promised to take a hard line on bird poisoning and wildlife crime.