Forty pigeons found dead in water
The Scottish SPCA is appealing for information after forty dead pigeons were found floating in the water at Albert Quay in Peterhead on Monday (9 August).
We were contacted by a member of the public who discovered the dead birds while fishing on the south breakwater at Peterhead.
Investigating the incident, Senior Inspector Scott Elphinstone said, "On arrival at Albert Quay I counted a total of forty dead pigeons in the water, although the gentleman who contacted us estimated there to be around a hundred, so others may wash up elsewhere.
"There were bags and boxes reported to be floating nearby which suggests that the birds may have been dumped in the water.
Disposing of animals in this manner is not only inappropriate but it also poses an environmental risk in terms of pollution, particularly as we do not yet know the means by which these animals were killed.
"I have arranged for three of the birds to be examined post mortem, so we should have a clearer idea of what happened to them within the week.
"I'd urge anyone who knows anything about this incident to contact our animal helpline on 03000 999 999."
We have made the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) aware of the incident.