Police investigate fatal poisoning of Red Kite in Northern Ireland

Red Kite (Photo credit M.Ruddock)

An investigation is underway following the confirmed poisoning of a red kite in County Down, prompting concern from wildlife authorities and law enforcement about the continued targeting of protected birds of prey.

The red kite — a species legally protected under the Wildlife (Northern Ireland) Order 1985, as amended by the Wildlife and Natural Environment (NI) Act 2011 — was discovered dead in the Tullymore Road area near Loughbrickland at the end of December 2024.

Forensic testing has since confirmed the bird was deliberately poisoned using the banned rodenticide Chloralose and the insecticide Bendiocarb.

Superintendent Johnston McDowell, the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s (PSNI) lead for Wildlife Crime and Animal Welfare, condemned the killing:

“Red kites, along with all birds of prey, are protected in Northern Ireland… and tragically this is not the first time we have had reports of this nature in this same area. Two ravens were also recently found dead having been poisoned using similar chemicals, and it saddens me that these incredible birds are being intentionally killed.”

The PSNI, in collaboration with the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) and with technical support from the UK’s National Wildlife Crime Unit, conducted site visits and multiple lines of enquiry in response to the incident.

Authorities warn the poisons involved pose serious risks to both wildlife and public safety.

“The poisons used in these most recent incidents are deadly not only to birds and wildlife, but also to humans,” Superintendent McDowell added. “Anyone who comes across the body of any of these birds shouldn’t touch them, but alert the authorities instead.”

Those found guilty of persecuting protected birds of prey can face custodial sentences or fines of up to £5,000 per offence.

The PSNI also works closely with the Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI) and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) to track the illegal use of hazardous substances.

A spokesperson for HSENI said:

“Where duty-holders are found to have incorrectly used or have misused biocidal products or continue to use or store biocidal products that have been withdrawn from the market, HSENI will take appropriate enforcement action to achieve compliance.”

DAERA also reiterated the seriousness of such actions:

“The intentional poisoning [of] wildlife and birds is abhorrent. Supplying, storing or using a Plant Protection Product that has been banned is an offence… If convicted of committing an offence, fines will incur.”

As part of its ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable bird species, PSNI highlighted its Operation Raptor – Peregrine Watch initiative. This project uses drones, local policing and coordination with the PAW Bird of Prey Sub Group to monitor and safeguard nesting sites.

“We will continue to investigate wildlife crime and seek to prevent further instances, whilst bringing offenders to justice,” Superintendent McDowell stated.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact police by quoting incident number 419 of 24/12/24. Reports can be made via 101, online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport, or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org.