POLICE are clamping down on wildlife crime as part of a new initiative.

Wildlife crime is any act that is made illegal in Scotland under legislation with regard to certain birds, animals and plants including their habitats, both on land and at sea.  In Scotland the priorities are:  bat persecution, badger persecution, bird of prey persecution, poaching, illegal trade of endangered species and freshwater pearl mussels It includes the illegal disturbance, destruction, theft and sale of animals and plants both in the countryside and urban areas, and includes the destruction of and damage to protected habitats.

Wildlife crime poses significant harm to the species targeted by the criminals, as well as the communities who rely on wildlife for employment and tourism.

Wildlife crime threatens a wide range of wild animals and plants all over the country.

You can help by keeping your eyes open and reporting any suspicious activity to police by calling 101.

If members of the public suspect a wildlife crime has taken place they are being asked to report any suspicious activity as soon as possible to Police Scotland on 101 or 999 and ask to speak to a Wildlife Crime Officer if one is available.