Bird of prey shot dead

A buzzard which was found illegally shot has prompted an investigation by the RSPB and police.

The bird was found dead on the ground by a walker near Llanrhaeadr-ym-mochnant, and it was reported to the police. An x-ray by a local vet showed it contained eight pieces of a bullet.

By highlighting this incident, both the RSPCA and police hope to raise awareness that buzzards, like all birds of prey, are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. To kill or injure one is a criminal offence and could result in an unlimited fine or up to six months in jail.

PC Adrian Ward, of Dyfed-Powys Police, said: “To treat an animal in this way is absolutely appalling. Dyfed-Powys Police officers are carrying out enquiries into this incident. I would urge any member of our community who knows who is responsible for this crime to please come forward and tell us by calling 101.”

RSPB Investigations Liaison Officer, Jenny Shelton, added: “It is saddening and concerning to hear that another protected bird of prey has been shot. This is a serious problem in Wales and the rest of the UK, and one which the RSPB employs a specialist team to tackle. We recently launched a hotline to provide a means of reporting crimes against birds of prey in complete confidence. Someone out there will know what has happened to this bird – please speak out and help end this brutal and illegal behavior.”

The latest Birdcrime report showed Powys was joint second highest UK county for raptor persecution from 2012-16.

If you have any information relating to this incident, contact the RSPB’s Raptor Crime Hotline on 0300 999 0101. If you find a wild bird of prey which you suspect has been illegally killed, contact police on 101 or the RSPB immediately.