At the force’s new mobile unit in Monifieth, Mr Stewart said Tayside Police could now detain people suspected of wildlife crime since it was now punishable by a jail term.

Offenders can be jailed for up to three years under the Nature Conservation Act 2004, which came into force this month.

Mr Stewart told the Evening Telegraph, “The legislation is helping to cut crime against wildlife because people will think about the risk before they commit the act.

“Wildlife crime can range from the theft of rare wild birds’ eggs, the illegal trade in protected species, the release of non-native species to the wild and crimes against more unusual creatures such as freshwater pearl mussels, bats and moths.

“Any crime that involves a species is now punishable with a jail term under the Nature Conservation Act.

“It can be difficult to obtain evidence against many of those who commit crimes against wildlife, since many of the incidents take place away from prying eyes.”

Tayside Police’s wildlife crime officers are spreading their message via the new mobile unit, which was at Dobbies Gardenworld in Monifieth today and will be at Dobbies in Perth tomorrow from10am to 4pm.

Today officers welcomed visitors, told them about the various types of wildlife crime committed in Tayside and what they are doing to enforce the law.

“Tayside Police are putting specific emphasis on prevention and education,” Mr Stewart continued.

“The education of the next generation is extremely important and we have joined with Scottish National Heritage and Dobbies Gardenworld in their bid to educate primary school pupils on wildlife crime.

“Both are sponsoring this year’s schools wildlife crime project.

“Young people seem to be particularly interested in this issue.

“The mobile unit is a fantastic means for us to meet and engage with the public.”