Experts from Spain to help Cypriot officials deal with bird poisonings

Bird experts from the Spanish region of Andalusia will be in Cyprus this week to hold a seminar explaining how to identify poisoned baits, BirdLife Cyprus said on Monday.

The experts will share their knowledge of internationally recognised procedures used in the fight against wildlife crime.

“The use of poisoned baits is often overlooked and not effectively prosecuted,” BirdLife said.

“However, over the past 15 years, thanks to thorough investigations and convictions served to people using poisoned baits, Andalusia saw related incidents fall by over 80 per cent.”

The seminar will be attended by members of the Game Fund, the Cyprus police, the state vet service and the British Bases.

Lectures will be delivered by both Spanish and Cypriot experts who have been trained in Spain.

“The seminar covers a wide variety of topics, from planning the investigation of a wildlife crime, to the newest forensic methods of investigation available to the police and the Game Fund.

“It will also provide the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to enable participants to plan and implement the best methods to solve wildlife crimes,” BirdLife Cyprus said.