A new report released in Scotland has confirmed that the number of recorded wildlife crimes has increased. The Wildlife Crime Annual Report confirms there have been 236 offences related to crimes involving wildlife in 2017-2018. This is after a fall in previous years in such crimes. A spokesperson for the government has stated: “We have already taken action to end this type of crime, including commissioning a review of golden eagle disappearances, strengthening the resources available to law enforcement and establishing the specialist wildlife and environmental crime prosecution unit. It is important we continue to safeguard our wildlife which is why those who commit the most serious wildlife crimes will face increased penalties through the introduction of the Animals and Wildlife Bill next year.”