Police appeal for information on hare coursing in north east Fife

Police in Fife are appealing for information following an increase in hare coursing incidents in the north east of the region.
By The Newsroom
Published 12th Oct 2018, 16:35 BST
Updated 13th Oct 2018, 04:04 BST
Stock image. Pic: Allan MilliganStock image. Pic: Allan Milligan
Stock image. Pic: Allan Milligan

There have been several reports from members of the public following sightings of small groups with dogs over the last month.

These incidents have been happening in fields in the St Andrews, Kingbarns, Dunino and Auchtermuchty areas in recent weeks.

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Wildlife and Environmental Crime Officer Lindsay Kerr said: “We take these incidents very seriously.

“It is illegal to hunt hares using dogs under the Protection of Wild Mammals (Scotland) Act 2002.

“Hare coursing is a national wildlife crime policing priority. It is classified as a blood sport and is typically where dogs are used to chase, turn, catch and kill hares.

“Lurchers and greyhound type dogs are predominately used in this activity and have been highly trained to flush out and kill hares.

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“We are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen groups of men with lurcher or greyhound type dogs searching for hares or releasing dogs to chase after hares.

“Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland on 101 or make an anonymous report via the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.