RSPB condemn illegal killing of birds of prey
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) has today reported that birds of prey have been deliberately killed in County Down.
A male peregrine was shot and at least one buzzard has died from suspected poisoning.
The peregrine was found in a field near Sprucefield with four pellets lodged in its leg, wing and shoulder blade. It was taken to the vet, but died a few days later.
The bird was ringed as part of a scientific study and identified as having hatched this year in Co Antrim.
The buzzard was found alive but suffering from apparent poisoning in the Drumbanagher area near Newry.
Despite treatment by a vet, the bird died, haemorrhaging blood and water.
Full laboratory results are still awaited, but initial results indicate poisoning.
Claire Ferry, Conservation Officer at the RSPB, said: “We are horrified to learn of probable human persecution of birds of prey.
“Shooting or poisoning of all birds of prey is illegal and the PSNI has been made aware of both cases.”
She continued: “These incidents may well be the tip of the iceberg. There was a case of alleged persecution of peregrines in the Mourne Mountains earlier this year. We encourage anyone who knows of any bird or wildlife crime to report incidents to the PSNI and the Wildlife Officer at EHS to investigate.”