Lewis porpoise died ‘painful death’ in illegal net

A porpoise similar to this was found tangled in the illegal net. Picture: PA

Police are working with conservation groups and fishery agencies to investigate the death of the porpoise and a salmon.

The huge gill net, which was discovered after a tip-off from a concerned member of the public, was 125 metres long and 4 metres wide, made of green monofilament nylon.

Upon lifting the net, local estate staff discovered not only a dead salmon caught in it, but also a porpoise that had become entangled.

Police Scotland Wildlife Crime Officer Adrian Kay, based in Benbecula, said: “It is clear that this porpoise, an intelligent animal, would have suffered a slow, painful death caught in this net.

“The poachers who set this net do not appear to have checked it regularly, allowing this salmon and porpoise to die trapped within it.

“The net was attached to a number of floats, one of which was white and was marked ‘L1 LADY’.

We urge anyone with any information about this crime, to get in touch”.

Scottish Natural Heritage’s Area Manager in the Western Isles, David Maclennan added: “This latest incident highlights the need for people to be vigilant about the use of illegal salmon nets in the area and to report cases to the authorities.

“As well as being illegal, this form of salmon netting poses a major threat to porpoises, dolphins, and basking sharks, which often feed in the main netting areas.

“We are committed to working with Fishery Boards and the Police to stamp out the practice.

“Cetacean species – dolphins and porpoises - are a major wildlife draw for Scotland and salmon are worth millions to the Scottish economy.

“We owe it to all marine species to protect them from such indiscriminate practices.”

Anyone who may have information about this incident is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.