NatureScot has restricted the use of general licences on Lochan Estate in Perthshire. The body said the decision was made on the basis of evidence provided by Police Scotland of wildlife crime against birds.
Evidence included a satellite-tagged hen harrier, found dead on Lochan estate in an illegally set spring trap.
Donald Fraser, NatureScot’s head of wildlife management, said: “We are committed to using all the tools we have available to tackle wildlife crime. In this case, there is clear evidence that crime involving a wild bird occurred on this property.
“Because of this, and the risk of more wildlife crimes taking place, we have suspended the general licences on this property for three years. They may still apply for individual licences, but these will be closely monitored.”
