Police are appealing for information following the suspected shooting of a buzzard in the North York Moors National Park.

It is thought to have been killed near Laskill, Bilsdale, on Thursday, April 4.

Anyone who saw any suspicious people or vehicles in the area are being urged to come forward.

A spokesperson for North Yorkshire Police said: "Buzzards and all other birds of prey are legally protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. To intentionally kill or injure one is a criminal offence which could result in an unlimited fine or up to six months in jail.

Darlington and Stockton Times: A buzzard collecting nesting materials for the future brood by Avon Images

"If you have any information that could help please email tom.gaunt@northyorkshire.police.uk or call North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option two and ask for PC Tom Gaunt.

"If you wish to remain anonymous you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org Please quote NYP reference 12240059635 when passing on information."