Fears over red kite shooting (From Bucks Free Press)

Fears over red kite shooting

9:45am Friday 28th October 2005 in News By Paul Leat

CONSERVATIONISTS fear birds are being harmed deliberately after a red kite was shot down in Ashley Green.

The protected bird of prey was found in a garden in Hog Lane last Sunday, bleeding from a shotgun wound and unable to fly.

The RSPCA was called and inspector Nicola Dilley collected the kite and took it to St Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital, in Haddenham.

Les Stocker, founder of St Tiggywinkles, said: "It's extremely unlikely that the kite was shot accidentally because of its size and distinctive appearance. The bird suffered pain and distress and is lucky to have been found before its condition worsened. We're very concerned that someone may be deliberately targeting these beautiful and rare birds."

The kite, an adult measuring two-and-a-half feet, was treated for four shotgun pellet wounds to its wing and body, one of which had fractured the radius bone in the right wing.

RSPCA staff said the bird is recovering but is still refusing to feed. The injured wing is expected to take two weeks to heal, but staff at St Tiggywinkles said they may allow the bird to recuperate during winter before releasing it in the Chilterns with other rehabilitated red kites in the spring.

Red kites are the biggest bird of prey in the area and are a rare species, protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Anyone found guilty of intentionally killing or injuring a protected bird could face a maximum sentence of six months in prison and/or a £5,000 fine.

RSPCA inspector Dilley said: "It is essential that attacks of this nature are prevented to save more birds from unnecessary suffering."

Anyone with information should contact the RSPCA confidentially on 08705 555 999