Countryside Alliance Ireland - love the countryside

Police are investigating a wildlife crime incident which has led to the detection of carbofuran, a pesticide which can kill wildlife.

In Carrickfergus two dead buzzards were discovered by a member of the public in a rural area at Paisleys Road on Sunday 25th April. 

The delay between discovery and this call for information is due to the testing being carried out on the dead buzzards.

Following a report to local police, who organised tests by external specialists to check for poisoning, the substance carbofuran was detected and it was established that the birds had died of poisoning.

Police would warn users of carbofuran that use of carbofuran leading to the death of wildlife could result in offences under the Wildlife (NI) Order 1985 and the Welfare of Animals Act (NI) 1972. Enquiries will be carried out by police and could lead to robust action against individuals.

Police - who are investigating the incident in Carrickfergus to establish the circumstances - take wildlife crime seriously and would ask that any suspected incidents are reported to a local police station on 0845 600 8000 as soon as possible.

Information about crime can also be passed to the Crimestoppers charity anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.