Bird of prey killed illegally in Towcester
A sparrowhawk was found dead on Redcar Road last week
Police officers from the Rural Crime Team are appealing for witnesses, after a bird of prey was found dead in Towcester.
The force was contacted by the RSPB, following a report from a member of the public that a Sparrowhawk had been found dead on Redcar Road.
It is believed the protected bird had been shot by a type of rifle, sometime between 8am on Thursday, November 6 and 11.30am on Friday, November 7.
PC Emerson Knights of the Rural Crime Team said: “Sparrowhawks are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, and it is an offence to intentionally or recklessly kill or injure them.
“We believe this Sparrowhawk was fatally injured after being shot with either a high-powered air rifle or small calibre rifle and would like to hear from anyone who may be able to identify the person responsible for the bird’s death.”
Witnesses or anyone with information are asked to call Northamptonshire Police on 101 or alternatively contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Information can also be submitted online at Report | Northamptonshire Police and Giving information | Crimestoppers.
Please quote incident number 25000654367 when providing any information to make sure it gets to the right person as quickly as possible.