A bird of prey suffered a “harrowing death” after being poisoned in Aberdeenshire.
The dead sparrowhawk was discovered by a member of the public in a wooded area near to Lumphanan on 6 September.
Police Scotland said the poison used has been banned in the UK since 2008.
Ann Ashman, wildlife crime liaison officer, said: “From enquiries carried out so far, we know this sparrowhawk has been poisoned with insecticide carbosulfan, resulting in a harrowing death.
“Sparrowhawks are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, and it is an offence to intentionally or recklessly kill or injure them.
“The use of carbosulfan is illegal, with the substance having been banned in the UK since 2008. This substance can cause death in humans, so its illegal use is extremely reckless.”
The force has launched an investigation and will be working with a range of partner organisations to find those responsible.
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Ms Ashman added: “The public has an important role to help us combat wildlife crime. If you see anything suspicious, please report it to us.”
