Investigation after protected bird shot dead with air rifle in Wakefield

The bird was found in Horbury on Friday, January 31, and is believed to have been shot with an air rifle.

Officers from West Yorkshire Police are now working with the RSPCA to identify those responsible for the incident.

Peregrine falcons are a Schedule 1 listed species of The Wildlife and Countryside Act, which means it is an offence to intentionally or recklessly disturb an active nest.

There are currently around 1,500 breeding pairs of peregrine falcons in the UK.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact West Yorkshire Police on 101, quoting reference 13200059791.

In a statement, the force said: "Police are investigating an incident, which is believed to have occurred on 31st January in the Horbury area of Wakefield, in which a protected bird of prey is believed to have been shot with an air rifle.

"The Peregrine Falcon was found deceased and officers are working alongside the RSPCA to identify those responsible.

"Anyone with information or any witnesses are asked to contact the non-emergency number 101 of Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."