Red kite killed in '˜shocking' act of cruelty

The bird was found injured by a walker found on farmland near Nidd, Harrogate, on Saturday, and was taken to a vet but its wing was so severely damaged that it had to be put down. X-rays confirmed that it had been shot with a shotgun.

It is believed the bird had been shot while in flight, and had survived, unable to fly, for up to two days, before it was found.

PC Gareth Jones, wildlife crime co-ordinator at North Yorkshire Police, said: “It has taken many years to re-introduce red kites after their extinction from the UK by persecution.

“People in Harrogate have become used to seeing red kites soaring above the town, and will be shocked by this meaningless and cruel act.”

Call North Yorkshire Police on 101.