Poachers 'taking advantage of lockdown' to illegally catch animals in East Lothian

Poachers may be taking advantage of lockdown to illegally catch wildlife in East Lothian, police have warned.

East Lothian Police issued the warning after a net was found by the river Tyne near East Linton.

While intended to illegally catch salmon and sea trout, the net could also drown otters and birds.

Police found a net by the river Tyne. | Other 3rd Party

Officers will patrol known poaching hotspots throughout lockdown, East Lothian Police said.

A spokesperson said: “Poachers may be taking advantage of there presently being less public in the countryside but patrols of known hot spots for poaching will be conducted and should anyone observe suspicious activity that may be wildlife crime we would urge you to contact the police on 101.”