POLICE are appealing for information after a buzzard was found dead from shotgun wounds near Gordale, Malham.

The bird of prey was found by a farmer in a field off Hawthorns Lane, Gordale on Tuesday, May 16.

It was passed on to rangers from the Yorkshire Dales National Park who notified the RSPB.

Following an examination of the bird, an x-ray revealed a shotgun pellet in the bird's head. It is not known whether it was killed at the location, or if it was shot elsewhere and flew on before dying from its wounds. Carl Lis, chairman of the national park authority, said: “The shooting of this buzzard was a mindless and barbaric act. The fact that it only extends a long list of recent incidents makes it no less upsetting. I urge anyone who may have information to contact police.”

He added: “The person who shot this bird needs to know that their criminality risks hitting local businesses in the pocket. Birds of prey are a big attraction to visitors that come each year to the national park. This buzzard was shot a short distance from Malham Cove, where nesting peregrines attract thousands of tourists.”

The RSPB says the illegal shooting of birds of prey is an ongoing problem in North Yorkshire, with red kites and other birds also being targeted.

Anyone caught intentionally killing or injuring a bird of prey could face a fine and up to six months in jail.

Jenny Shelton, RSPB Investigations liaison officer, said: “It is alarming to hear of yet another bird of prey being shot down in North Yorkshire. The sight of a buzzard soaring high overhead is one of the joys of the British summer and no-one should take that away from us. Sadly, North Yorkshire is proving the worst county in England for these sorts of crimes. It is a serious, ongoing problem and it has to stop.”

A spokesman for North Yorkshire Police said: "We are conducting inquiries and are requesting the public’s assistance to help determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident. In particular, we are appealing for anyone who has any knowledge of this shooting to contact us."

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should contact police on 101, select option 2, and ask for Harry Carpenter, or email Harry.Carpenter@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Quote reference number 12170089221