Raptors found dead in Derbyshire

A Common Buzzard and Common Kestrel have been found dead in Derbyshire – and are suspected of having been deliberately poisoned.

The Derbyshire Rural Crime Team has launched an immediate investigation after the two birds of prey were found dead in the Ault Hucknall area of Chesterfield. The grim discoveries were made on Monday 23 March, with the police triggering the inquiry two days later.

The Common Buzzard suspected of having been poisoned (Derbyshire Police).

Investigations have led the police to believe that both birds were poisoned, rather than shot. The birds have been recovered and an investigation launched. The Common Kestrel was found amid a bed of plucked Woodpigeon feathers, which may suggest a carcass was poisoned and left for raptors to visit.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Derbyshire Rural Crime Team quoting reference 20000159754.