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Red Kite dies after being found shot in Peak District

Police are seeking information after treatment failed to save a bird discovered with a badly injured wing.

X-Ray showing the shot lodged in the kite's wing

Police have appealed for information after a Red Kite found with gunshot injuries in the Peak District died despite treatment.

A Derbyshire Police appeal, reproduced by Raptor Persecution UK, places the discovery between Buxton and Combs. The bird was found on or before 7 July; the appeal was issued on 27 September.

The kite was suffering from shock, bleeding and swelling around its left wing. X-rays revealed shotgun pellets and a fractured wing bone.

Commenting on the injury, Dr Ruth Tingay, Raptor Persecution UK, questioned how far it could have travelled:

it would seem unlikely that this Red Kite would have been capable of flying a long distance from where it was shot.
Dr Ruth Tingay, Raptor Persecution UK

That is her assessment; the precise location and timing of the shooting have not been established in the appeal. No suspect, arrest or charge has been announced.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Derbyshire Police on 101, quoting reference 26*431851.

2 Oct 2026

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