Wednesday 02 September 2020
The results of a fifth bird of prey, found dead in mid-July in unusual circumstances, have confirmed the cause of death to be due to the same professional-use pesticides as with previous birds.
The buzzard was found dead alongside a dead pigeon which it had been consuming. The buzzard's alimentary tract contents and the entire pigeon were sent to the UK for testing. Results concluded that the same pesticides were present on the pigeon and in the alimentary contents of the buzzard. It is believed that the buzzard died whilst consuming the pigeon which emphasises the serious hazard that these pesticides pose.
States Officers would like to reiterate that if someone were to come across an intoxicated, injured or dead bird of prey, please do not touch it with bare hands. Gloves should be worn to handle the bird. If the bird is alive please contact the GSPCA on 01481 257261. If it is dead, place it inside two plastic bags. Please then contact the States Vets by either telephone on 01481 711161 or by email at svo@gov.gg to inform them of your finding and to organise the drop off/collection of the dead bird so that it can be disposed of safely following examination.
If a member of the public has any information concerning the misuse of pesticides, this can be reported to the Health and Safety Executive by direct phone line on 01481 233555 or by email at hse@gov.gg.
A number of local wildlife organisations and individuals have contributed to a financial reward, currently at £16,000, leading to the conviction of the person(s) responsible for the poisonings.
States Officers will continue to investigate any allegations of misuse of pesticides and the States Veterinary Officers will investigate any consequential animal welfare concerns.
