Hunters face punishment for fatally injuring protected bird

Walkers found the bird of prey caught in a metal spring trap on moorland near Winscar Reservoir, in the northern Peaks near Penistone.

The buzzard was taken to a local veterinary practice, but its injuries were so serious it had to be put down.

The species is protected by law, and trapping the birds carries a maximum fine of £5,000 or six months in jail.

Spring traps can be used lawfully to catch stoats and weasels, but must be set in tunnels to avoid hurting birds.

Geoff Nickolds, chair of the Peak District Birds of Prey Initiative, said: “The death is especially upsetting as the bird had been ringed as a chick last year at a nearby site.”

n Call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 with information.