Police probe bird of prey poisoning in Aberdeenshire

The bird is perched on a lichen covered branch. The hawk is grey and brown in colour and, with its bright yellow eye, is looking down in search of prey on the ground.Getty Images

Sparrowhawks are protected by law

Police are investigating after a sparrowhawk was found poisoned in Aberdeenshire.

A member of the public found the dead bird of prey in woods near Lumphanan on Saturday 6 September.

Police Scotland said inquiries showed it had been poisoned with an insecticide called carbosulfan, resulting in a "harrowing" death.

Officers said it could be fatal for humans, and described its use as "extremely reckless".

Wildlife crime liaison officer Constable Ann Ashman said: "Sparrowhawks are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, and it is an offence to intentionally or recklessly kill or injure them."

Appealing for information, she said: "We are carrying out an investigation in relation to this incident.

"The public has an important role to help up combat wildlife crime. If you see anything suspicious, please report it to us via 101, or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

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