Press Release

APPEAL FOR INFORMATION ABOUT SHOOTING OF RED KITE

[airesizeimg src=”http://raptorpolitics.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Red-Kite-Flying.jpg” alt=”Red Kite Flying” class=”aligncenter size-full wp-image-14135″ ]

Hertfordshire Police are appealing for witnesses and information after a wounded bird of prey was taken to a vet in Buntingford.

The Red Kite was spotted in Furneux Pelham, Buntingford, in distress and unable to fly. The vet concluded that the Kite had been shot and had suffered injuries which meant that it had to be put down.

Rural Operational Support Team Sergeant Jamie Bartlett said: “All wild birds are protected under the Wildlife & Countryside Act. As a bird of prey Red Kite persecution is monitored by DEFRA and the National Wildlife Crime Unit, as Raptor Persecution is a National Wildlife Crime Priority. Not only is this a serious criminal offence but, this female would have been ready to breed this season and its death will impact on the local Kite population.

“If anyone has information about this incident or has seen people shooting or carrying hunting rifles in the area, please contact the herts Police non-emergency number 101 quoting reference A2/17/197.”