A retired solicitor has been fined for stealing wild bird eggs from nests in Orkney.

William Beatson from Devon pleaded guilty to wildlife crimes at Kirkwall Sheriff Court on Tuesday and was fined £4200.

The 73-year-old was caught collecting eggs on Shapinsay and presented an arctic tern egg when challenged.

He was detained by police when he got back to Kirkwall on June 4 and was found to be in possession of two rock dove eggs.

A search of his car revealed another eight eggs, including three Great Skua eggs and an extending spoon which is used to collect eggs.

The eggs will be donated to the Department of Natural Sciences at the National Museum of Scotland.

Gary Aitken, procurator fiscal, wildlife and environment, said: "Scotland is home to a wide range of wild bird species, both rare and common, and all are protected by law.

"It is an offence to intentionally take the egg of any wild bird as it can have serious implications for their conservation and habitat.

"We hope this prosecution will serve as a clear message to others who participate in the illegal practice of collecting wild bird eggs that this type of offending will not be tolerated."