North Yorkshire Police have started an investigation into the shooting of a protected bird of prey which was found dying from its injuries on the moors near Westerdale.
The juvenile Marsh Harrier was found on August 28 suffering from injuries which left it unable to fly.
North Yorkshire Police say it had been shot and had probably been lying injured for several days before it was found. Its injuries were deemed so severe with “no prospect of recovery” so the bird was humanely euthanised.
The Marsh Harrier is a specially protected bird of prey under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. It is an offence to intentionally kill, injure or disturb these birds, or to damage or destroy their nests or eggs.
North Yorkshire Police is now appealing for information in connection with this incident. Anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area, or who has information that could assist the investigation, is asked to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101 or emailing kimberley.laws@northyorkshire.police.uk, quoting incident number 12260171320.
