Gamekeeper in Scotland charged with killing goshawk on a Perthshire estate in February

Press release from Police Scotland (4th March 2024):

47-year-old man arrested and charged following death of goshawk near Blairgowrie

On Thursday, 29 February, wildlife crime officers acting under warrant searched an estate near Blairgowrie with the assistance of our partners the RSPB and the SSPCA.

This resulted in a 47-year-old man being arrested and charged with killing a goshawk, which is a protected bird, contrary to section 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

The incident took place on Monday, 12 February.

Police Scotland Wildlife Crime Coordinator Detective Sergeant David Lynn said:

“Police Scotland will pursue anyone deliberately targeting Scotland wildlife. This multi-agency day of action shows our collective commitment to safeguarding Scotland’s wild animals.”

ENDS

This is an efficiently-handled case by Police Scotland and agency partners SSPCA & RSPB. The time from the alleged offence and the subsequent arrest and charge is unusually short. It’s also good to see an early press statement – well done.

NB: As an individual has been charged this case is considered live so comments have been turned off until criminal proceedings end. Thanks for your understanding.

UPDATE 23 July 2025: Trial date for Scottish gamekeeper accused of killing a Goshawk on a Perthshire shooting estate (here)

UPDATE 17 September 2025: Change of trial date for Scottish gamekeeper accused of killing a goshawk on a Perthshire shooting estate (here)

UPDATE 12 November 2025: Trial of Scottish gamekeeper accused of killing Goshawk now delayed until March 2026 (here)