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Framework in place to protect migratory raptors

Representatives from more than 60 countries across Europe, Asia and Africa met last week to create an international treaty for the conservation of birds of prey.

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The meeting, held on the banks of Loch Lomond, was chaired by Scottish Natural Heritage and has resulted in an agreed framework for a new international agreement to conserve migratory raptors.

Scottish minister for the environment, Michael Russell, was co-host of the event with his UK counterpart, Joan Ruddock.

Mr Russell commented: “I feel privileged to have been involved in this meeting as we collectively take a truly historic first step towards improving the prospects for these birds.”

Professor Colin Galbraith, of Scottish Natural Heritage, added: “The work that we have done over the past four days has seen governments addressing the key issues affecting birds of prey, including persecution, indiscriminate poisoning and habitat destruction.”

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The rest of this article will appear in 1 November issue of Shooting Times.