Police appeal after goshawk 'brutally shot'

Police are appealing for information after a goshawk was "brutally shot" in a village in Derbyshire.

The bird of prey was taken to a vet after a member of the public found it suffering near Stanton Hall, in Stanton by Dale, on 31 January.

In an appeal published on Tuesday, Derbyshire Police said the goshawk had been shot "deliberately" and had suffered severe injuries caused by shotgun pellets, including a fracture to both its wings.

The force said the bird was humanely euthanised due to the extent of the injuries, adding the shooting was not only illegal but "heartless, barbaric, and will not be tolerated".

Shooting birds of prey is illegal under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Offenders convicted can be subjected to a fine and/or up to six months in prison, police said.

Officers have urged anyone who saw anyone with a gun in the area, or heard gunshots or witnessed any suspicious behaviour to contact them.

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