Police said it is an offence to kill or harm a buzzard. Photo: Mark Medcalf

Police are appealing for help from the public after the body of a protected bird of prey was found.

Derbyshire Constabulary said the buzzard, which was found in a tree by dog walkers, had gunshot wounds.

The bird was found in Hundall near Dronfield on Saturday 31 March.

A spokesperson said: “Police do not believe the bird died naturally and its injuries were consistent with gunshot wounds.

“Officers want to hear from anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious in the area on or around that date.

“The species is protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and it is an offence to kill, injure or take a buzzard, or to take, damage or destroy an active nest or its contents.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Sally Rohde on the police non-emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.