An investigation has been launched into vandalism and the theft of property belonging to Scottish Wildcat Action in Aberdeenshire’s Clashindarroch Forest.
Police were contacted on March 27 after Scottish Wildcat Action found evidence that several of its trail cameras had been vandalised or stolen from the forest near Huntly.
It was also discovered, by staff and volunteers, that an inactive cage trap used for neutering and health screening feral and hybridised cats was vandalised, and valuable information had been stolen.
The various incidents took place between 1 March and 27 March.
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SWA Priorities Area Manager, Dr Roo Campbell, commented: “We are extremely disappointed by what has happened in Clashindarroch. Our conservation work is crucial to the continued survival of the critically endangered Scottish wildcat.
“Those responsible have not only damaged our equipment and robbed the project of vital scientific information but they have also curtailed work crucial to the conservation of the Scottish wildcat.
“What is particularly disappointing is the theft of our volunteers’ information. We have nearly 50 local people generously giving their time to help the project and they are devastated that their hard work has been stolen. We would appeal to anyone with information to get in touch with the police.”
Anyone who may have witnessed anything is asked to contact Police Scotland quoting reference number 2301 of 27 March. Alternatively anyone can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
