Shot buzzard found in North York Moors dies as police launch investigation
North Yorkshire Police is appealing for information after a buzzard, a protected bird of prey, was found with shotgun pellets in its wing.
The buzzard was located in the Bransdale area of the North York Moors on May 4 with a broken leg, and taken to a vet.
A Police spokesperson said: “Sadly, it had to be euthanised due to its injuries.
"The bird was x-rayed, and pellets from a shotgun were found in its wing.
"It is believed the broken leg occurred up to 48 hours before it was found, and may have been caused by a hard landing – so the buzzard could have been shot within that same 48-hour period.
"Buzzards and other birds of prey are legally protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
"To intentionally kill or injure one is a criminal offence. “Anyone with any information about how the bird came to be injured is asked to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, quoting reference 12260080894.”