Protected Falcon may have been poisoned

Tests will now be carried out to determine the cause of death however it is suspected that the bird was poisoned.

Constable Danielle Cosgrove said: “If anyone has information about the death of this protected bird then we would be really keen to hear from you. If it turns out the bird was poisoned then the person responsible needs to be identified before other wildlife, domestic pets, or even humans come to harm.”

Emma Meredith, Wildlife Liaison Officer added: “Poisons can have serious implications and reports such as give rise to serious concerns. A Peregrine Falcon was found shot dead in the same area back in 2012 and on this basis we have asked for the poison tests to be expedited so we hope to have the results very soon.”

Anyone with information can contact police on the non-emergency number 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.