Rory Parker fined after shooting protected Sparrowhawk on Moy Estate near Inverness

A man who shot and killed a protected bird of prey in the Highlands has been fined.

Rory Parker, 24, was fined £1,500 on Friday at Inverness Sheriff Court having previously pled guilty to killing the Sparrowhawk on the Moy Estate near Inverness in September 2021.

It follows a complex investigation involving the RSPB, the National Wildlife Crime Unit (NWCU), Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture (SASA), NatureScot, the Wildlife and Environmental Crime Unit (WECU) and wildlife officers from Police Scotland.

Police Constable Daniel Sutherland, Wildlife Crime Officer for the area, said: “This act by Parker showed complete disregard for the law and our wildlife.

“I would like to thank all the partner agencies who helped with this complex enquiry. Their expertise is invaluable when it comes to investigating wildlife crime.

“The public also has an important role in assisting us combat wildlife crime. I would encourage anyone who sees anything suspicious or has information about this kind of crime to get in touch.”

Anyone with any information relating to wildlife crime is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101.

Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.