The Scottish Borders claimed another shameful record in wildlife persecution this week.
A record number of poisoned baits was found within a square mile area near Greenlaw, Berwickshire. Rabbits and hares containing the banned chemical carbofuran had been left out to attract birds.
It was confirmed that six buzzards were among birds poisoned. Other species affected were crows and a magpie. 25 poisoned baits were discovered on five different occasions during a six-month period.
Last week, a red kite was found poisoned in Dumfries and Galloway.
No prosecutions have taken place in connection with the poisonings, though conservation agencies have expressed their dismay at the news, which follows an analysis by the Scottish Agricultural Service Agency.
Police last year announced a review of the way wildlife crime was handled.
In August 2007, the body of a golden eagle which had been poisoned was found in the Borders.
Earlier this year, it was announced that estate owner James McDougal had had his agricultural grant reduced by nearly £8,000 after his gamekeeper George Aitken was found guilty of laying poison traps near the Southern Upland Way in Berwickshire.
See also
Estate owner's grant cut after poisoning case
Border project aims to halt raptor conflict
Reward after Borders eagle is poisoned
Walkers urged to be on lookout after poisoning case
Scotland tops bird-crime shame list
