Police Scotland acknowledges the conviction of Keith Riddoch, who has been convicted of the reckless killing of a buzzard in the Badenoch and Strathspey area.

The 65-year-old from Aberdeenshire was found guilty of an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 following a trial at Inverness Sheriff Court on Monday, December 11.

Riddoch shot the buzzard during an organised pheasant shoot in the Ralia area near Newtonmore during November 2016.

Wildlife crime officer Constable Daniel Sutherland said: “We welcome this conviction, which clearly indicates the high expectations and standards police and the wider public have for firearms holders and those involved in the participation of game shooting and any deviation from that will be fully investigated.

“Game bird shooting is a legal sport and brings jobs and benefits to the local economy. However, it is fully expected all participants conduct their activities to the highest standard.

“In this case the mistaken identity of a pheasant and killing of the buzzard was deemed unacceptable to the court.

“I would like to thank the estate staff and all other witnesses involved in the incident for their co-operation during our investigation..

“Along with the safe practices established during this shoot I would also like to take the opportunity to remind all those involved in shooting, whether game birds or deer stalking that there is a high expectation on not only shoot managers but also individuals to practice safely and responsibly.

“Similarly for deer stalking, expectations are that those involved should be suitably qualified with appropriate deer management qualifications for certain specific operations.”

Riddoch was fined £500 after being found guilty.