AN INVESTIGATION has been launched following the poisoning of a red kite in north Wales.

The animal was found dead in the Ceiriog Valley on February 27 and was attended to by RSPB Investigations Team.

North Wales Police's Rural Crime Team has launched the investigation as the birds of prey are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Toxicology tests carried out by the Welsh Government have since revealed the bird tested positive for Bendiocarb – a highly toxic insecticide.

Officers believe the incident was potentially a deliberate act and are asking anyone with information to get in touch.

It comes following several similar incidents reported in the area over the past three years, with a number of ravens and crows also found to have been poisoned using another substance.

PC Dewi Evans, North Wales Police Rural Crime Team manager said: “We suspect the red kite died as a result of the unlawful use of poison and as a result, we have launched an investigation into the incident.

“The deliberate poisoning of a bird brings a serious risk to humans and other animals and is hugely irresponsible.

“We are currently looking into a potential motive for this incident and ask members of the public who have information to get in touch.”

Anybody with information is asked to contact officers at the North Wales Police Rural Crime Team via the website or by calling 101, quoting reference number 21000458355.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.