POLICE IN East Lothian are appealing for witnesses following illegal snares being found near Wallyford on Saturday, February 20.

A member of the public was out walking when they saw a rabbit in a snare about two metres from a public path and approximately 150 metres from Futures Way, near Wallyford. The Scottish SPCA were alerted and later reported the incident to Police Scotland.

Wildlife Officer PC Steven Irvine explained that while some snares can be used in the countryside, the type found at Wallyford was illegal.

“The photographs are of the actual snares seized, which are self-locking illegal snares," said PC Irvine. "A number of years ago, people would have used these to catch rabbits, however, these snares are now illegal to set in Scotland and any persons setting or using these snares, should stop immediately as this is an illegal act.

“Anyone wanting to set snares legally as part of land management must have successfully completed a recognised snaring training course, register themselves with Police Scotland and comply with the requirements within the Wildlife and Countryside 1981 Act.

“All snares should be free running, contain stops to prevent severe injury and have tags with the operators ID number displayed on them," stressed PC Irvine.

“I would encourage all members of the public who are out walking in the countryside and see these types of illegal snares to report them to Police Scotland via 101 or making a call anonymously to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”