Protected bird of prey shot and left to die near Westerdale, police reveal
Examination found the marsh harrier had been shot and left injured for several days before it was found
A young marsh harrier has been shot and left unable to fly near Westerdale, North Yorkshire Police have said.
The bird of prey was found in the area on 28th August 2026 suffering from injuries that meant it could not fly.
An examination established that it had been shot, and it is believed to have been lying injured for several days before it was discovered.
Its injuries were so severe that there was no prospect of recovery, and the bird was humanely euthanised on welfare grounds.
The marsh harrier is a specially protected bird of prey under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
It is an offence to intentionally kill, injure or disturb the birds, or to damage or destroy their nests or eggs.
North Yorkshire Police are appealing for information in connection with the incident.
The force said anyone with concerns about the persecution of birds of prey or other wildlife crime should report it to police, adding that information from the public can play a vital role in helping to protect wildlife and bring offenders to justice.