A BIRD of prey had to be put down after it was found injured near Easingwold, with five shotgun pellets in its body.

The buzzard was found in Brownmoor Lane, Huby, on Friday, February 14, with a shattered wing and other injuries.

It was taken to a local vet but could not survive its injuries and had to be put down.

North Yorkshire Police are investigating the incident, and urged anyone who was in the area and saw people shooting to get in touch.

PC Clare Mayes, of Thirsk and Easingwold Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: β€œIt is always sad when a bird of prey sustains such injuries and it is important that we establish how this buzzard was shot.

β€œI would also appeal to anyone who may have been out shooting on that day to come forward.”