Appeal after protected bird of prey found shot

A protected bird of prey was found shot and badly injured on North Yorkshire moorland.

The juvenile marsh harrier was discovered in the Westerdale area on 28 August unable to fly.

An examination established the bird had been shot and was believed to have been lying injured for several days before it was found.

The bird's injuries were so severe it had to be put down on welfare grounds, North Yorkshire Police said.

Marsh harriers are specially protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

It is an offence to intentionally kill, injure or disturb the birds, or to damage or destroy their nests or eggs.

North Yorkshire Police said inquiries into the shooting were ongoing, with anyone who witnessed suspicious activity in the Westerdale area, or who had information about the incident, asked to get in touch.

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