Reprieve for raptors on Scottish moors

It is hoped that a new law regulating the grouse-shooting industry will tackle raptor persecution

- Simon Birch

Wildlife campaigners have welcomed a new law passed by the Scottish Parliament that tackles the longstanding illegal persecution of birds of prey by regulating the grouse-shooting industry.

According to the RSPB, there were 488 bird of prey persecution incidents in Scotland from 2007 to 2022, concentrated around grouse moors in the Highlands and Southern Uplands. Conservation scientists and campaigners believe that birds such as golden eagles and hen harriers are killed to prevent them from preying on red grouse – a target species for shooting parties.