Scottish SPCA

Illegal traps set in Blairgowrie

The Scottish SPCA is appealing for information after two ducks had to be put to sleep having been caught in illegal traps.

Inspectors were called to Davie Park duck pond in Blairgowrie to rescue an injured duck on Monday 10 January.

On arrival they found the duck in the pond with a fenn rabbit trap attached to its leg.

Chief Inspector Brian Cowing said, "The duck's leg had almost been completely severed by the trap and sadly it had to be put to sleep to end its suffering.

"We received another call the following day and found the same had happened to another duck.

"These traps were set illegally as no permission has been given by the local council and they were not secured to a fence or set in a tunnel, which are all legal requirements when setting fenn traps.

"The traps are a serious concern as many local people visit the pond to feed the ducks and if the traps are set at the water edge, they could cause someone a bad injury.

"We don't know why anyone would set traps in this area as it is a public place."

Anyone with information about the traps should contact our animal helpline on 03000 999 999 or the Tayside Police non emergency line on 0300 111 2222.

Anyone found guilty of causing an animal unnecessary suffering can face a fine of up to £20,000, up to 12 months in prison or both.

Return to news