Police appeal for information after a Goshawk was shot and killed near the Forest of Dean

Police are appealing for information after a protected bird of prey was shot and killed in the Forest of Dean last month.

Officers were called by a member of public who found the body of a Goshawk near Kempley on the morning of Tuesday 27 February.

An X-ray of the Goshawk, which had been ringed, showed an air rifle pellet had broken the bird's hip leading to its death.

The Rural crime team said: “Goshawks are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 which means it is an offence to intentionally kill, injure or take any wild bird.

“This sort of offence is taken seriously and if anyone has any information we would be keen to hear from them.

“If you have any information please Contact Gloucestershire Police Rural Crime Team on 101.”

Enquiries are ongoing and investigating officers are asking anyone with information on the incident to please get in contact.

Information can be submitted by completing the following form online: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/    

Alternatively, you can call 101 and quote the same incident number or speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.