Sovereign Base Area environmental experts have confirmed that four incidents of poisoning dogs and foxes were recorded in the Akrotiri and Episkopi area within the past three months.
The cases were detected in Special Protection and Special Areas of Conservation, which according to the Bases Environmental team, raises serious concerns as they pose threats to wildlife, in particular “protected bird species”.
The detection of the most recent cases have been a collective effort between both the Bases authorities and the Republic of Cyprus, with one instance detected by dogs from the Anti-poison Unit of the Game and Fauna Service.
Alexia Perdiou, the Senior Policy and Enforcement Officer for the SBA Administration, explained why these cases pose such a threat.
She said: “The use of poisoned baits can have devastating consequences for species like Griffon vultures that feed on carcasses of other animals and which may be affected by secondary poisoning.
“The placing of poisoned baits may possibly be taking place to address problems livestock breeders face from foxes, but it might also be related to rivalries among individuals illegally training dogs in the affected areas.”
And in a warning to those undertaking the illegal practice, she continued: “The training of hunting dogs is prohibited everywhere in the British Bases, and offenders are liable to a fixed penalty of €300 and on conviction, to imprisonment for up to two years or a fine up to €3,417.”
Exhibits have been handed over to the SBA Police and has subsequently been sent to the State General Laboratory of the RoC for toxicological examination to determine the poisonous substance.
The SBA Police and Environment Department have also increased intensive campaigns against the illegal training of hunting dogs, whilst the Anti-poison Dog Unit of the Game and Fauna Service regularly patrol the areas.
“Citizens are urged to report incidents of illegal dog training and any information related to the use of poisoned baits to the SBA Police on 1443,” Perdiou continued.
“If a person wishes to submit an anonymous report, they can call 9772 0883. Everyone’s contribution is vital for resolving the problem.”