POLICE are seeking witnesses after a rare bird was found with shot wounds.

The Marsh Harrier was discovered by a member of the public just to the west of Bowes, near Barnard Castle.

The bird was seriously injured in the incident, which is believed to have happened in the last four weeks. It had gunshot wounds to both wings and one leg.

The marsh harrier is a rare breeding bird with fewer than 400 breeding pairs in the UK. It was formerly extinct because of human persecution but the population has started to recover well in the last 30 to 40 years.

It typically breeds in lowland wetland and farmland habitats. The species does not breed in County Durham though is recorded on passage through the county every year. “We rely on the public to be our eyes and ears regarding wildlife crimes such as this, so if anyone has information please get in touch,” said PC Clare Addison, rural communities liaison officer at Durham Police. “We hope the offer of a reward will encourage someone to come forward.”

Guy Shorrock, RSPB senior investigations officer, said; “This is yet another appalling example of the crimes which continue to be committed against birds of prey. This type of persecution remains a serious problem in the uplands of northern England.

“From the extent of its injuries, it seems likely this bird was shot close to where it was found and we would urge anyone with information to contact the police.”

All birds of prey are fully protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. The offences carry a maximum fine of £5,000 and a term of six months imprisonment.

Witnesses should call PC Addison on 0345-6060-365 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555111.