Cops have launched a probe after a lout hung a dead buzzard from a tree on a Scots cycle path.
A shocked biker came across the bird of prey, which are protected by law, hanging from the tree on the cycle path from Tayport to Newport near the West Lighthouse on Monday.
The bird died naturally, it's emerged.
But police say the sight of the buzzard has 'caused distress' and blasted tying it to the tree as 'reckless and needless'.
Fife's Wildlife Crime Liaison Officer, Constable Ben Pacholek, said: “Our enquiries show that the buzzard died from natural causes before being tied to the tree.
"But this was a reckless and needless act, leaving a dead bird hanging in a public place that has caused distress within the local community.
“I would urge members of the public to be respectful and considerate towards wildlife at all times. All wild birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
“If anyone knows anything about what happened or saw anything suspicious then please contact us on 101, quoting incident 2246 of Monday, 5 April.
"Members of the public who witness any incidents they consider to be a wildlife crime are asked to report it to Police Scotland at the time telephoning 101 or 999 if it is ongoing."
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here.
