The red kite become extinct in England in 1871 following years of persecution by game keepers.

Police appeal for public support

Members of the public are being urged to support police in the fight against red kite persecution.

In the last two months, eight red kites in the North Yorkshire region have been shot or died in circumstances that indicate poisoning.

One of the birds, found near the market town of Malton, was rehabilitated and released back into the wild.

Four of the birds were so badly injured a vet had to euthanise them. The three birds suspected of poisoning are being examined by the Wildlife Incident Investigation Scheme.

PC Gareth Jones, wildlife crime co-ordinator at North Yorkshire Police, said: "Red kites are magnificent birds than can be regularly seen soaring over our area, bringing pleasure to many people.

“They are a Schedule 1 bird and as such are afforded special protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act. I am personally saddened by the scale of persecution of these birds - it has to stop, and I would ask for anyone who can help this investigation to get in touch."

The red kite become extinct in England in 1871 following years of persecution by game keepers. In recent years the bird has been re-introduced through breeding programmes at a number of locations nationally.

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is asked to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2 and ask for PC Gareth Jones, or email gareth.jones1237@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk.

Image (C) Tim Felce