A JOINT investigation has been launched after a re-introduced rare bird of prey was found “mindlessly” shot dead in the Dales.

The male bird is one of 30 Red Kites released into the wild from Grizedale Forest last month and was discovered next to a bridleway at Artengill in Dentdale.

A post-mortem examination identified the cause of death as injuries sustained from four shot wounds to its breast and wings.

Cumbria Police have launched an investigation with the Forestry Commission and Natural England to catch those responsible.

“We are shocked and deeply saddened that anyone would kill one of these birds,” said Wildlife Officer, PC John Shaw. “To persecute these birds after all the hard work and effort which has gone into reintroducing them, by both agencies and volunteers, is disgraceful and a full investigation is under way.

“We will be speaking to local people and landowners in the area where the bird was found to discover if they saw or heard anything which could help us in our inquires. It could have been shot any time from 23 August when it was last seen alive.”

A prison sentence of up to six months as well as a large fine are the maximum penalties for anyone caught killing a protected species Iain Yoxall, Forestry Commission wildlife ranger in charge of the Red Kite reintroduction project at Grizedale Forest, said: “The news that one of these magnificent birds has been mindlessly shot out of the sky is very sad indeed.

“Red kites have not been seen in Cumbria for more than one and a half centuries, partly as a result of human persecution.

"These birds could become a fabulous natural asset to Cumbria, but they need to be given a fighting chance of survival.”