McArthur secures raven survey commitment from NatureScot

Orkney’s MSP Liam McArthur today received confirmation from Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie that NatureScot will carry out census work on raven numbers in Orkney, after Mr McArthur called for such a survey at First Minister’s Questions earlier this month following reports of attacks on livestock.

Commenting, Mr McArthur said:

“After raising this issue with the First Minister last month, I am pleased to see the Minister confirm that NatureScot will be engaging with the local farming community on the issue of raven attacks.

“In the first instance, there is clearly a need to understand the extent of the problem. This will require a better understanding of the overall size of the raven population locally, so I welcome the commitment by NatureScot to undertake the necessary survey work.

“In the meantime, I would encourage anyone who has concerns to get in touch with me or to contact NatureScot or NFUS Orkney directly.”