Protected falcon put down after being shot as investigation launched

The peregrine flacon was found injured by a member of the public in the Glen Esk area near to Tarfside on Tuesday.

Peregrine Falcon put down after being shot in Angus as investigation launched — The bird was taken to the wildlife resource centre in Fishcross for treatment but had to be put down. Creative Commons

Beth Franklin

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An investigation has been launched after a protected bird had to be put down after being shot in Angus.

The peregrine falcon was found injured by a member of the public in the Glen Esk area near Tarfside on Tuesday.

The SSPCA was called, and the bird was taken to the wildlife resource centre in Fishcross for treatment.

Due to the severity of its injuries, it had to be euthanised on Wednesday.

After initial inquiries, the charity determined the bird had been shot and contacted the police.

The force is now urging anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward.

Constable Craig Savage, wildlife crime officer, said: “Peregrine falcons are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, and it is illegal to kill any protected species.

“Since this matter was reported to police, we have been carrying out enquiries and working with our partner agencies to establish the full circumstances.

“We would appeal to anyone with any information that may assist our investigation to please contact us.

“Your information could be vital in in establishing what has happened.

“If you were in the Glen Esk area around Tuesday, September 3, and saw anything suspicious or have any information about shooting activity in the area, please come forward.

“Anyone with information is urged to contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference CR/0368615/24.”