AN investigation has been launched after an illegally shot peregrine falcon was found in County Durham.

The dead bird was discovered on the south-east edge of Stang Forest, on the outskirts of Teesdale, near the North Yorkshire border, on August 23 by a member of the public, who alerted Durham Police and the RSPB.

The carcass was sent for a post mortem examination, which confirmed that the bird died as a result of being shot.

The bird had suffered severe blood loss and most likely died close to to where it had sustained the gunshot wounds.

It is the third such crime against birds of prey in County Durham this year.

In March, two short-eared owls were found shot dead near Selset reservoir and in June, a shot peregrine was discovered at Castle Lake, in Bishop Middleham.

Howard Jones, RSPB Investigations Officer, said: “This case once again provides a window into the reasons behind the peregrine falcon’s struggle to breed in much of the English uplands.

“Illegal persecution continues to limit the breeding success of this species in the uplands, which is in stark contrast to the bird’s successful recovery in the lowlands.”

The peregrine falcon is the world’s fastest animal, capable of speeds of up to 200mph when descending in flight.

As a wild bird, it has been legally protected since 1954 and anyone found guilty of an offence faces up to a maximum of six months in prison and an unlimited fine.

Anyone with information about the incident should call Durham Police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555-111.