Bird of prey poisoners targeted in police operation

Image source, RSPB Cymru

Image caption, Four peregrine falcons were found dead in their nest at Dyffryn Nantlle in June 2014

People poisoning endangered birds of prey are being targeted by a campaign to halt the cruel practice, North Wales Police has said.

Five peregrine falcons died in two separate suspected poisonings in Gwynedd last year.

A buzzard is being tested after it was found dead in suspicious circumstances in Llanfair Talhaiarn, Conwy.

North Wales Police's rural policing team has now launched Operation Raptor to discourage would-be bird poisoners.

Sgt Rob Taylor said it is an awareness campaign to warn offenders they could face a fine or even jail time if they are caught.

Image source, North Wales Police

Image caption, A buzzard found beside a dead pigeon in Llanfair on 16 April

"We know it's happening, we know how they do it. If we catch somebody who is doing it, they will go to court", he said.

Sgt Taylor said evidence suggests people were targeting peregrine falcons to prevent them from killing prize racing pigeons.

In previous years peregrines have been killed in Conwy and red kites in Powys.