Agents of the Seprona of the command of the Guardia Civil of Almeria in collaboration with Environmental Agents of the Territorial Delegation of Sustainability, Environment and Blue Economy of the Regional Government of Andalusia, Wilder South association (collaborating entity in the field of flora and fauna that carries out the gps-gsm tracking of golden eagles) and the sports club «Laborcicas», investigate a person for killing a golden eagle in Arboleas.
The action began when the Guardia Civil agents received valuable information about the discovery of the body of a golden eagle (Aquila Chrysaetos) within the boundaries of a hunting reserve in the municipality of Arboleas.
During the inspection of the eagle’s body, shotgun impacts were observed on one wing and on the GPS tracking device. In collaboration with environmental agents, traces and evidence were located, which enabled ballistics and crime laboratory (DNA) technical actions to be carried out.
The corpse is removed and the protocol (chain of custody) is activated for a necropsy to be carried out in an authorised centre to certify the possible causes of death.
The active collaboration with the agents on the part of the actors involved, including that of the sports club «Las Laborcicas», and the swift action of the Guardia Civil agents were decisive in identifying the perpetrator of the crime.
The perpetrator is investigated for a crime related to the protection of flora, fauna and domestic animals, according to article 334 of the Penal Code, as the golden eagle (Aquila Chrysaetos) is considered a species included in the list of wild species under special protection by virtue of the provisions of Royal Decree 139/2011, of 4 February, for the development of the list of wild species under special protection and the Spanish catalogue of endangered species.
As a precautionary measure, the weapons and their documentation were withdrawn to be deposited in the corresponding Intervention of Weapons and Explosives of the Civil Guard.
The proceedings were handed over to the Duty Court of Huércal Overa.