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Falcon nests 'suspiciously' abandoned in D&G

A young Peregrine Falcon Credit: PA

Two Peregrine Falcon nests near Dalveen in Dumfries and Galloway have been 'suspiciously' abandoned.

Police Scotland is carrying out investigations after the nests were abandoned some time between April 21st and May 20th.

Members of the Dumfries and Galloway Raptor Study Group were monitoring the nests. The falcons left eggs which had not yet been incubated.

"Female peregrines have apparently disappeared at both sites, and not for the first time in this area. In other parts of the region, peregrines seem to be having a good year and are perhaps benefitting from the good weather of late. Sadly, this is not the case at Dalveen.”

– Chris Rollie, RSPB Scotland Area Manager

"At this stage we are working with partners in the Group and with the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds in gathering evidence in order to better understand what has happened here. The fact that two nests have failed in this way does seem very unnatural and we cannot discount that this is a criminal act.

"Whilst both sites are remote in the Queensberry Estate we do want to hear from anyone who may have any information which might help us with this enquiry. Callers should use the 101 number to contact police at Sanquhar."

– Constable Alan Steel, Police Scotland