Press release from Northants Police (14 November 2025)
BIRD OF PREY KILLED IN TOWCESTER
Police officers from the Rural Crime Team are appealing for witnesses after a bird of prey was found dead in Towcester.
The Force were contacted by the RSPB following a report from a member of the public that a Sparrowhawk had been found dead in Redcar Road.
Following enquiries, it is believed the protected bird had been shot by a type of rifle sometime between 8am on Thursday, November 6 and 11.30am on Friday, November 7.
PC Emerson Knights of the Rural Crime Team said: “Sparrowhawks are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, and it is an offence to intentionally or recklessly kill or injure them.
“We believe this Sparrowhawk was fatally injured after being shot with either a high-powered air rifle or small calibre rifle and would like to hear from anyone who may be able to identify the person responsible for the bird’s death.”
Witnesses or anyone with information are asked to call Northamptonshire Police on 101 or alternatively contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Raptor Persecution UK 
Here we go again what is wrong with these people do they not have anything better to do xxxxx xxxxx xxxxx xxxxx xxxxx xxxxx have they ever thought of getting some binoculars and observing these beautiful things I am profoundly disturbed by all this as I’m sure you all are .
Or a Camera to shoot them maybe Xmas presents xxxxx xxxxx xxxxx xxxxx