The killings of more than 20 raptors on the Black Isle has been a “blow to the reputation” of the area, according to the leader of Highland Council.
Councillors united yesterday to voice their “disgust” over the poisonings.
A total of 22 birds – comprising 16 red kites and six buzzards – have been found dead in the same area of Conon Bridge since March 18. Police have confirmed at least 12 of the birds were poisoned, horrifying the RSPB, public, landowners and farmers who have rallied together to offer a reward of £27,000 for information leading to a conviction.
Yesterday, members of Highland Council unanimously agreed a motion condemning the killings and pledging to work with other agencies to fight wildlife crime.
Black Isle councillor David Alston said: “There is nothing we can do to change what has happened. What we can do as a council is speak with one voice to express our disgust at what has happened.
“The condemnation from the public shows the strength of feeling and I hope we can make this a tipping point and turn what has been a tragedy for wildlife and wildlife tourism into a new start.”
Council leader Drew Hendry said: “This is an extremely serious matter – it has been a blow to the reputation of the Highlands, a blow to our economy and a blow to our daily lives.”
He called for all agencies to work together to catch those at fault.
The council’s red kite champion, Councillor Carolyn Caddick, Inverness South, said people had “given their lives” to the 35-year long programme to reintroduce the species to the Black Isle.
But ward colleague Councillor Jim Crawford said people should be wary of blaming individuals until all the information is released as the birds could have been accidentally poisoned.