In a deeply troubling incident, a specially trained detection dog uncovered poisoned bait and a dead wild animal in the village of Rotasi, located in the Heraklion region of Crete. The discovery was made on November 5, 2025, during an official inspection conducted by the LIFE Bonelli East Med detection team, part of the LIFE Against Poison Crete initiative.
The team, consisting of handler Spyros Nistikakis and his detection dog Eka, found three pieces of sausage covered in white powder—believed to be toxic substances—alongside the body of a dead stone marten (Martes foina), locally known as a “zourida.”
Second Case in the Same Area Within a Month
According to the LIFE Against Poison Crete project, this is the second poisoning incident reported in the same area within just one month. In the previous case, the detection team was not called to investigate, but this time, local residents alerted authorities immediately after noticing suspicious signs.
The investigation was carried out with the assistance of a game warden from the 1st Hunting Club of Heraklion, Mr. Remidianakis, and a formal complaint has already been filed with the Pyrgos Police Department.
The Ongoing Problem of Poisoned Bait in Greece
Unfortunately, this incident is not isolated. Across Greece, illegal poisoned bait continues to claim the lives of stray animals, pets, and wildlife alike. According to multiple reports, including data from conservation groups and scientific studies, poisoning is one of the leading causes of wildlife mortality in the country — affecting not only mammals but also protected bird species such as eagles and vultures (source).
These acts are criminal offenses under Greek law, carrying heavy penalties, but enforcement remains a challenge, particularly in rural areas.
A Call for Vigilance and Action
The LIFE Against Poison Crete program urges residents to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious bait or animal deaths to local authorities or wildlife organizations. Every report helps prevent further suffering and protects both domestic and wild animals from unnecessary deaths.
If you live in Crete or other rural areas of Greece, remember:
– Do not touch suspected poisoned bait.
– Report findings to local police or environmental authorities.
– Support organizations like LIFE Against Poison Crete that work tirelessly to combat this issue.
Final Thoughts
The tragedy in Rotasi is a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by poisoned bait to both wildlife and community safety. While awareness and enforcement efforts are improving, continued public cooperation is essential to end this cruel and illegal practice once and for all.
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