The heartless shooting of an endangered peregrine falcon in Leigh earlier this month has sparked a police investigation.
The distressed bird of prey, which is a protected species, was discovered suffering by a motorist on the side of the East Lancs Road between Leigh and Golborne on August 2.
When a member of the public spotted the wounded bird he immediately took it to a veterinary practice in Bolton, who confirmed the gunshot injuries and the peregrine falcon is receiving treatment for its injuries.
Detective Constable Randolph Lyle, Wildlife Officer at Bolton said: “Sadly, this poor animal appears to have been shot with a shotgun and was in a considerable amount of distress when a Good Samaritan kindly stopped to help it.
“Peregrine falcons are given full legal protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, and it is a criminal offence to recklessly kill or injure one.
“If anyone has any information about who may be responsible for this crime, or if you heard gunshots in the area around the East Lancs Road on Friday August 2, please come forward and tell us what you know to assist with our enquiries.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police at Bolton on 0161 856 5373.
Image courtesy of David Forster via Flickr, with thanks.
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