Investigation launched after red kite shot dead in Aberdeenshire

Police are appealing for information after a protected bird of prey was shot in Aberdeenshire.

A member of the public reported the incident to police when they discovered the red kite after it had been shot in the Glenbuchat area of Strathdon.

The incident is believed to have happened between Monday 3 and Tuesday 4 February.

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) assisted in removing the bird and the death of cause was not apparent at the time.

After investigating further, it was established that the bird had been shot and the police were informed.

Red Kites are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act and it is illegal to kill any protected species.

Police are now asking anyone with any information that could assist with their investigation to get in touch.

Detective Constable Danny Crilley of the Wildlife Crime Unit said: "Red kites are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act and it is illegal to kill any protected species.

"Enquiries are ongoing and we are working with our partner agencies to establish the full circumstances of this incident.

"I would appeal to anyone with any information that may assist our investigation to contact us. Your information could be vital in in establishing what has happened. If you were in the Glenbuchat area on Monday, 3 or Tuesday, 4 February, and saw anything suspicious or have any information about shooting activity in the area, please contact us.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0846 of Thursday, 27 February. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously."

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