One of Scotland’s top eagle experts has pleaded for a lifetime ban on a wildlife centre owner who kept birds in sickening conditions.
Conservationist Dave Anderson was shocked by conditions at the Scottish Eagle Centre, owned by Andrew Knowles Brown, 69, in Elvanfoot, Lanarkshire.
A major probe into falconer Knowles Brown led to him being found guilty of keeping up to 90 eagles and other large, valuable birds in squalid conditions.
Anderson inspected the premises after an investigation was launched by the SSPCA and said he was traumatised by having to hold a tawny eagle as a vet euthanised it on the spot.
He said: “The bird’s wings were badly damaged, it had been suffering for a long time. What sickened me most was that Knowles Brown showed no remorse.”
He spoke out after Sheriff Diane Turner deferred sentence on Knowles Brown at Lanark Sheriff Court until June, to monitor changes he makes to his aviaries.
It’s feared the sheriff may allow him to keep some birds, after submissions were made about the lack of alternate facilities.
Anderson said: “The scene I witnessed at his aviary shocked me to the core and I cannot see any situation where it would be appropriate to allow him to look after large birds. I sincerely hope he is never allowed to repeat these terrible crimes.”
Don’t miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond.Sign up to our daily newsletter.