Appeal for information after shot buzzard found in North York Moors

We’re appealing for information after a buzzard was found with shotgun pellets in its wing.

The buzzard was located in the Bransdale area on 4 May 2026 with a broken leg, and taken to a vet. Sadly, it had to be euthanised due to its injuries.

The bird was x-rayed, and pellets from a shotgun were found in its wing. It is believed the broken leg occurred up to 48 hours before it was found, and may have been caused by a hard landing – so the buzzard could have been shot within that same 48-hour period.

Buzzards and other birds of prey are legally protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. To intentionally kill or injure one is a criminal offence.

Anyone with any information about how the bird came to be injured is asked to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, quoting reference 12260080894.