Police today revealed that a joint investigation
has been launched following the death of a rare bird of prey near the the River
Humber and Goxhill.
The dead marsh harrier, which had taken poison,
was discovered on top of a large bush on May 27 by a local birdwatcher who was
monitoring a breeding pair of marsh harriers in the area.
The position of the dead bird aroused his
suspicion as its spread wings suggested it had fallen from the sky.
Humberside Police, the RSPB and Natural England
have been working together to investigate the incident.
Sergeant Howard Garlick from Brigg Neighbourhood
Policing Team, said: "This is one of the more unusual incidents that
police are called to investigate. Whilst it is not one of our regular
priorities, all reasonable steps will be taken to investigate this matter and
prevent further loss of these rare birds."
Mark Thomas, RSPB Senior Investigations Officer
said: “This is another appalling example of the crimes which continue to be
committed against birds of prey.
“Poisoning is a particularly insidious method of
persecution both because it causes the bird great suffering and also because it
is so indiscriminate.”
Tony Bird, Lead Wildlife Adviser at Natural
England said: “All birds of prey are fully protected under the Wildlife and
Countryside Act 1981. Offences carry a maximum fine of £5,000 and/or a term of
six months imprisonment.”
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