Wild Animals

Wildlife Poisoning and Raptor Welfare

Illegal poisoning of raptors and other wildlife continues to devastate bird of prey populations across Europe and beyond.

Key Facts

Poisoned bait is used illegally to kill foxes, corvids, and raptors on some shooting estates
Golden eagles, red kites, and white-tailed eagles are among the most commonly poisoned species
Carbofuran, alphachloralose, and strychnine are commonly detected in poisoning cases
Secondary poisoning through rodenticide-contaminated prey kills barn owls, red kites, and kestrels
Persecution is a major barrier to recovery of hen harriers and other upland raptors in the UK

Welfare Considerations

Illegal poisoning causes slow, agonising deaths in raptors and other wildlife. The practice is not only a serious crime but a significant ongoing welfare and conservation crisis. Stronger enforcement, better monitoring, and ending practices that incentivise persecution are urgently needed.

What You Can Do

Report suspected wildlife crime to the police and wildlife crime officers
Support organisations that investigate and document raptor persecution
Advocate for vicarious liability legislation to hold landowners responsible for crimes on their land
Avoid game products from estates with poor wildlife crime records