[A] buzzard found injured earlier this month in the Sedbergh area is likely to make a full recovery.
Found alive but unable to fly on Wednesday May 3rd in the area of Cowgill, Dentdale, the bird was taken to Kendal College Animal Rescue Centre and examined by veterinary staff.
X-rays images revealed that the bird had been shot in the right wing and the associated wounds were consistent with an injury occurring at some time during the previous 48 hours.
The bird was hospitalised for further treatment at the centre and it is hoped it will be released back into the wild soon.
Wildlife Crime Officer PC Sarah Rolland said: “I am pleased that the buzzard is recovering well from the injury, and that it is likely to make a full recovery.
“This incident stresses the importance of laws around wildlife crime, particularly the laws regarding wild birds. It is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 to kill or injure any wild bird, or to damage its nest.
“Cumbria Police take all reports of wildlife crime very seriously and we will do our best to prosecute any identified offenders.”
Anyone with information who can assist with this investigation, or who has any concerns about wildlife crime, should contact police on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.