Newsflash from Wednesday, 8 October 2025: Sixteen poisoned baits were found near the Agios Kyrillos Wind Farm in Heraklion, Crete, triggering a police investigation and renewed warnings from wildlife protection teams.
A disturbing case of illegal wildlife poisoning has been uncovered in southern Crete. During a recent field investigation, an anti-poison detection dog discovered 16 pieces of poisoned meat scattered near the Agios Kyrillos Wind Farm in the Municipality of Gortyna, Heraklion Prefecture.
According to a statement from the LIFE Against Poison Crete project, the toxic baits — consisting of chicken and liver pieces laced with poison — were found on October 6, 2025, within the fenced area of the wind farm, near the villages of Miamou and Agios Kyrillos. The discovery followed a tip-off from a local hunter who noticed suspicious activity in the area.
The search was carried out by handler Spyros Nistikakis and his trained detection dog Eka, members of the LIFE Bonelli East Med anti-poison team, accompanied by federal game warden Giorgos Rinakakis from the Hunting Federation of Crete and Dodecanese.
A formal complaint has been filed with the Moires Police Department, and samples have been collected for toxicological analysis.
A Persistent and Deadly Threat to Wildlife
The use of poisoned baits remains one of the most serious environmental crimes in Greece, threatening not only wildlife but also domestic animals and public health. Conservation experts warn that such incidents continue to endanger rare species, including birds of prey like Bonelli’s eagles, which are particularly vulnerable to secondary poisoning when feeding on contaminated carcasses.
Crete has seen a worrying increase in similar cases over the past few years, despite ongoing awareness campaigns and coordinated efforts by environmental organizations. The LIFE Against Poison Crete program — co-funded by the EU — works to combat this problem through field patrols, community education, and cooperation with local authorities.
Call for Vigilance and Public Cooperation
Authorities are urging residents, farmers, and hunters to report any suspicious findings — such as dead animals or strange food remnants — immediately to the police or the Anti-Poison Task Force. Even small quantities of poison can have devastating ecological consequences.
As the investigation continues, environmental groups emphasize that ending this cruel practice requires stronger enforcement, public awareness, and community involvement.
Key Takeaways:
– 16 poisoned baits found near the Agios Kyrillos Wind Farm, Heraklion.
– Investigation led by LIFE Against Poison Crete and LIFE Bonelli East Med teams.
– Criminal complaint filed; toxicological tests pending.
– Ongoing threat to wildlife, pets, and public safety in rural Crete.
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