Bird rescuers 'horrified' after sparrowhawk shot dead

Manx raptor's life was 'brutally ended' says MWBA

A wildlife charity is calling for an individual to be brought to justice after a bird of prey was shot and killed in the north of the Island.

Last week, volunteers from Manx Wild Bird Aid were called out to Ballure in Ramsey, to retrieve a grounded sparrowhawk whose life it says was 'brutally ended'.

Following a veterinary examination, it was confirmed the young female had been suffering for some time, with a wound from an air rifle pellet.

It was understood that due to broken bones from falling, the bird would have also been immobilised from its injuries, unable to move from the location it was originally found.

Having reported what it describes as the 'upsetting case' to the wildlife crime unit, the charity says it is 'horrified' Manx raptors are being targetted by gun owners. 

In a joint statement with the environment department, police have since issued an appeal asking for anyone with information to this case to contact Biodiversity Officers at DEFA on 685835.

Officers have reminded the public that, with the exception of game species, it is offence to kill or injure wild birds.

In a statement to Manx Radio, Environment Minister Geoffrey Boot says 'protecting our wildlife is immensely important and the department and local charities work hard to ensure these animals are protected.’ 

You can listen below to an interview with David Cole, one of the founders of Manx Wild Bird Aid who suspects it might have been a youth 'messing round' with an air rifle: