Spate of Red kite shootings in Northamptonshire

At least three Red kites have been killed in Northamptonshire. Credit Wildlife Extra

January 2010. Northamptonshire Police and the RSPB are appealing for witnesses following a recent spate of red kite shootings. Between 2005 and 2009 there have been three confirmed shootings of red kites and one poisoning. In the most recent case, a red kite was found shot dead on farmland near the Top Lodge centre in Fineshade Wood, shortly after Christmas.

The bird had recently been released by the Top Lodge centre.

Claire Salmon, the forces Wildlife Liaison Officer, said: "Shootings birds of prey is a cruel and unacceptable act, but unfortunately it seems to still take place. I would urge anyone who has any information, witnesses a shooting or finds such birds dead, to make contact with us or RSPB."