Portsoy wildlife crime being investigated following report of herring gull chicks being thrown from roof

Police are investigating an alleged wildlife crime after it was reported that three herring gull chicks were thrown from a roof.

New Arc Wildlife Rescue were called to the incident in Portsoy on Tuesday, June 17.

They took the chicks into their care and reported the matter to police who have started an investigation.

New Arc Wildlife Rescue said in an online statement: “We received a call on the evening of 17/06/2025 regarding three herring gull chicks who were reportedly thrown from a roof by ‘two young lads’ carrying out roofing work in Portsoy, adjacent to a sheltered housing scheme.

“This disgraceful and deeply upsetting act has been reported to Police Scotland and is being investigated as a wildlife crime.

“It is a criminal offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 to intentionally damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird while it is in use or being built, or to take or harm wild bird chicks without an appropriate licence.

“This law applies to all wild birds, but herring gulls, whose numbers are in decline, are a Red List species and afforded full protection.

“Additionally, under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, it is an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to any animal, including wild birds.

“Throwing defenceless chicks from a rooftop clearly constitutes such suffering. If you witness a wildlife crime in progress please call the police immediately on 999.

“Sadly, one of the gull chicks sustained injuries so severe that euthanasia was the only humane option. The remaining two are thankfully in good health and continuing their rehabilitation journey with us.

“If you witnessed this incident, or saw two young men walking around Portsoy on 17/06/2025 with a ladder offering to do roofing work, please contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference PS 2025 0618 0913.

“Gull nesting season runs from May to August, and every year we respond to hundreds of reports involving young gulls.

“Most cases involve chicks who have simply fallen from rooftops and need support until they can be returned or released.

“However, incidents of deliberate cruelty, while thankfully less common, are both heartbreaking and illegal, and sadly we still respond to several such cases each year.

“Gulls are a vital part of our coastal ecosystem. They are protected by law, and harming them is not only inhumane but punishable by fines or imprisonment.

“Please help us protect wildlife by speaking out and reporting abuse.”

“A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “We received a report of an alleged wildlife crime in the Portsoy area and enquiries are at an early stage.”