Police Investigate Raven Poisoning In Newry

Local police have launched an investigation into the poisoning of two ravens on an estate in the area. The incident, which occurred on two separate occasions, has prompted authorities to take action and raise awareness about the dangers of illegal and harmful substances.

Officers from the Newry Local Policing Team, in collaboration with partners from the National Wildlife Crime Unit, Northern Ireland Environment Agency, and the Police Service of Northern Ireland's Wildlife Office, visited the estate to speak with residents and employees. The investigation revealed that the two ravens, large all-black corvid birds, had consumed insecticides, including Aldicarb, a banned substance, and Alpha Chloralose, a poison typically used for mice.

The use of Alpha Chloralose, a restricted substance that can only be administered by professionals, is particularly concerning. Its application is limited to indoor use in bait boxes, making its presence in the environment a potential hazard.

Authorities are urging the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity or information related to the poisoning of wildlife. The use of harmful substances can have devastating consequences for ecosystems and the environment as a whole.

Commenting, a National Wildlife Crime Unit James Leonard spokesperson said: "This was a sad outcome and we are deeply concerned by not only the confirmed poisoning of these rare birds, but also that they were found in protected areas where wildlife should be safe from harm. "Deliberately leaving out poisoned bait is an illegal practice and can affect not only birds of prey, but it can also harm pets, livestock and humans, if handled incorrectly. These two occurrences should not have happened and the birds involved should have been left free to roam."

Northern Ireland Environment Agency Jon Lees said: "This is a really sad situation but we were able to use it as an opportunity for police and partners to come together, and for us to collectively engage with local people in the area to provide them with information on what to look out for, preventing these incidents from happening again."

Newry Local Policing Team Constable Nelson added: "Police would encourage the public to avoid handling any dead birds (believed to be poisoned) they may find, particularly if in and around more rural areas. If you discover any dead birds that you suspect to be poisoned please report this to police straight away.

"Unfortunately all investigative measures on these incidents have been exhausted, but we very much encourage the public to come forward should there be any information and/or you wish to make a report to police, regarding any concerns you may have about birds of prey in general being targeted near you."

Please phone our non-emergency number 101 or 999 in live time. A report can also be made online via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ or you can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org/.