Animal welfare officers have warned foxes can be killed by snares which are illegally set
The public has been urged to contact police if they find an illegal snare.
Highland police and the British Association for Shooting and Conservation issued the guidance yesterday.
The use of snares is strictly legislated and is allowed for fox and rabbit control to ensure that damage to crops, livestock, game and other wildlife and their habitats can be minimised.
However, illegal use of snares constitutes a wildlife crime.
All legally set snares must be labelled appropriately with the identification number of the person setting it.
If a member of the public finds a snare that causes you concern, they have been urged not handle or remove it.
Instead, they should take a photograph, note the location of the snare and contact police for further advice.
Inspector Isla Campbell, local policing Inspector for Lochaber, said: “Several officers in the local policing team have been trained as wildlife crime officers in addition to their routine policing duties.
“We are committed to working with partners to raise awareness of and prevent wildlife crime. We will actively investigate any crimes of this nature with a view to protecting Scotland’s wildlife.”
Public urged to contact police over illegal snares
