Investigation launched after red kite found poisoned in Perth and Kinross
A post-mortem examination and toxicology testing have found the bird ingested toxic levels of rodenticide
Last updated 24th Sep 2025
Police have confirmed a red kite that died in Perth and Kinross back in June had been poisoned.
The body of the protected bird was found near its nest to the north west of Braco, and a post-mortem examination and toxicology testing have now shown that it had ingested toxic levels of rodenticide.
The red kite was also found to have ingested the banned substance aldicarb. Aldicarb has been illegal in the UK since 2007 and no products containing this substance are approved for use in the UK.
Red kits are protected under Wildlife and Countryside Act
Red kites are birds of prey which, like all wild birds in Scotland, are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, meaning it is an offence to intentionally or recklessly kill or injure them.
Wildlife Crime Coordinator, Detective Sergeant David Lynn, said: “This red kite has been poisoned resulting in a very painful and distressing death. Legal rodenticides must be used with extreme caution to avoid the poisoning of non-target species or you may be liable to prosecution. The use of Aldicarb is an illegal and reckless act as this substance can be fatal for both animals and humans.
Police say bird would have suffered painful death
“Our investigation into this incident is continuing and we will pursue anyone who targets Scotland’s birds of prey. I would encourage anyone with any information in relation to this incident to contact us.
“We ask anyone using the area to be vigilant if they find anything suspicious, don’t touch it, but do take photos and report to Police Scotland immediately on 101.”
Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident number 1176 of 23 September, 2025.