Police have confirmed that an adult bird of prey was found dead in the Forkhill area of Armagh in June of this year was poisoned. It was reported on the 12th June that a Peregrine Falcon was found dead in the Forkhill area. The bird was retrieved by PSNI search and rescue team and underwent testing to ascertain the exact circumstances, with enquiries ongoing the last number of months.
Constable Millen said that they can now confirm the Peregrine Falcon found was poisoned with Carbofuran which is very concerning. This is not only a dangerous substance but it has been banned since 2001. The Constable said it was important to remind the public if there is a suspicion of a crime, such as poisoning on any bird of prey in their local area, to leave the bird(s) and/or bait in situ and to call the police as soon as possible for officers to action.
They say they have been working closely with our partners in Northern Ireland Environment Agency and National Wildlife Crime Unit and Northern Ireland Raptor Study Group regarding the matter and will continue to do so, in the hope to find those responsible. Police would appeal to anyone who has information on any suspected bird poisoning to please make contact via our non-emergency number 101.
