A MAN has admitted trapping an owl in a crow trap.
Robert Christie pleaded guilty at Forfar Sheriff Court to trapping the tawny owl, contrary to the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
Christie, 57, from Kirriemuir, also pleaded guilty to failing to adhere to the terms of a licence which permitted the use of the crow trap.
The offences took place within a wood known as Craigton Bank on the Lindertis Estate near Kirriemuir on 8 August 2010.
Christie was admonished, but now has a criminal conviction for the offence.
Shona McJannett, Specialist Wildlife Prosecutor said: “Today’s conviction highlights the importance of ensuring that crow cage traps are operated legally in terms of the general licence.
“The protection of our wildlife is a priority and a robust view will be taken by the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service in relation to any reports received alleging breach of these general licence conditions.
“This prosecution should serve as a reminder to those who work under the general licence regulations that failure to adhere to the licensing regime will mean that any bird caught in the trap is caught illegally.”
