Police appeal after suspected poisoning of a sparrowhawk near Kirkbymoorside

Police investigating the potential poisoning of a sparrowhawk near Kirkbymoorside are urging people in the area to be vigilant.
A sparrowhawk.A sparrowhawk.
A sparrowhawk.

The very unwell bird of prey was found by members of the public in woodland just off Gillamoor Bank close to Gillamoor village.

The bird appeared to be experiencing seizures and clenching its talons and was taken for care but died shortly after. Police say the bird's symptoms suggest that poisons could have been involved in its death.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

As it was found earlier this month in woodland which includes a public footpath, they are appealing for people, especially those with dogs, to take extra care in the area.

A spokesperson for North Yorkshire Police said: “At this time, we are keeping an open mind as to the cause of death.

"However, toxicology results may not be known for a number of weeks, so we want to make the community aware so they can take precautions to keep pets, children and themselves safe.

“Once the results of the tests are known, we will update the community, but for the time being dog owners should take care to keep their dogs on leads when in this area, and remain vigilant.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The dead bird has been accepted onto the Wildlife Incident Investigation Scheme to establish the cause of death. The scheme investigates the deaths of wildlife and pets if there is evidence to suggest that they may have been poisoned or put at risk by pesticides.

Anyone with information about the incident should call North Yorkshire Police on 101, quoting reference 12200142198.

A message from the editor

Thank you for reading this story on our website. While I have your attention, I also have an important request to make of you.

In order for us to continue to provide high quality and trusted local news on this free-to-read site, I am asking you to also please purchase a copy of our newspaper.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Our journalists are highly trained and our content is independently regulated by IPSO to some of the highest standards in the world. The dramatic events of 2020 are having a major impact on many of our local valued advertisers and consequently the advertising that we receive. We are now more reliant than ever on you helping us to provide you with news by buying a copy of our newspaper.

Thank you

Jean MacQuarrie

Editor-in-Chief