Birds thought to have been 
poisoned by banned substance

Over the past number of months, three buzzards and a rare Gyr Falcon were found dead on land at Gilford Castle.

Two of the birds were sent away for examination and tested positive for a banned substance, Carbofuren.

Police are now investigating the possibility of Carbofuren being used in the local area and are asking for the support of the local community.

Constable McArthur, Gilford Neighbourhood Policing Team, said, “Buzzards are a protected species under the Wildlife (NI) Order and it is illegal to poison them. Carbofuren is a banned substance and should not be spread on fields.

“I am asking the community to report any kind of suspicious activity to us. If you notice substances being spread in fields or have information in relation to birds or animals being poisoned, please contact us at Banbridge Police Station on the new non-emergency 101 number.”