Police start rare bird map in bid to protect Cornish nests

Goshawks are among the birds killed in the area

A map of rare bird nesting sites is being created by police in a bid to protect them.

Birdwatchers are being asked to report nesting sites of rare birds in Cornwall.

Devon and Cornwall Police want to know where to target resources and plan future operations to protect them, especially birds of prey.

In 2011 a number of goshawks, peregrine falcons and a buzzard were killed in the force area.

Wildlife crime officer, Paul Freestone, who is behind the project, said birds of prey were especially prone to egg theft and persecution at this time of year.

He said: "The map will be used to build a picture of where to target resources and plan future operations."

Mr Freestone said he wanted people to report the nesting sites of all "Schedule 1" birds, which included goshawk, kingfisher, barn owl and peregrine falcon.

Reports can be sent to [e-mail]