Reward offered for finding falcon killer

Wednesday 29 July 2020

A £5,000 reward has been offered for information that could lead to the conviction of those responsible for poisoning Peregrine Falcons in Guernsey.

Over the past 14 months, four falcons - often referred to as the 'king' of the birds of prey in the British Isles - have been found dead.

Autopsies revealed that the birds had been in good health before ingesting a lethal amount of professional-use pesticides, some of which have been banned in Europe for eight years.

Pictured: The birds' deaths were caused by pesticides.

Peregrine Falcons are 'apex' predators, and their presence is considered a sign of a successful and diverse ecosystem.

The death of such animals could undo local work to promote biodiversity and have a long-term impact on wildlife tourism in the island.

Officers from the States of Guernsey are now investigating the allegations of misuse of pesticides, and States Veterinary Officer David Chamberlin has issued a warning about the use of harmful chemicals, following the death of the birds.

The £5,000 reward for information has been shared by Guernsey Animal Aid, but the person who is offering it remains anonymous. Anyone with potentially helpful information is asked to contact 07781 150388.