An investigation has been launched after a sparrowhawk was found shot at Lochwinnoch Golf Course.
The Scottish SPCA was alerted to the incident after the bird was discovered on the course on April 5.
The animal welfare charity has investigated the matter and concluded that the bird sustained a “catastrophic shoulder Injury” and this meant it had to be put down.
An undercover special investigations unit inspector said: "It was initially thought that the bird had been stunned but upon examination at the Scottish SPCA National Wildlife Rescue Centre, in Fishcross, it was discovered that it had been shot.
“This caused a catastrophic shoulder injury and, sadly, resulted in the bird having to be put to sleep.
“Another member of the public also reported finding another sparrowhawk the week before, which was bleeding from the wing.
"Unfortunately, that bird died before help could be called for.
“It is unknown if it had also been shot but it’s certainly very suspicious that two sparrowhawks with similar injuries were found in the same area only a week apart.
“We would like to find out what happened to this sparrowhawk. If anyone witnessed anything or has any information they feel may be relevant they can contact our confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999 or Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number KB01540722 of 5 April 2022.”
OneKind is a company that is dedicated to ending animal cruelty in Scotland by educating people about animals and have said that they "commend" the Scottish RSPCA on the action that they are taking on investigating the incident. OneKind Director, Bob Elliot said: "“We are saddened to learn that two sparrowhawks have been killed within the space of a week on the Lochwinnoch Golf Course.
"While we do not have the details of the case, it seems that at least one of the birds was shot. We commend Scottish SPCA and Police Scotland for their investigation and treating this situation with the gravity it deserves.
"We believe that a fundamental shift in mindset is required around attitudes towards wild animals, who are all sentient individuals and contribute richly to the ecosystem. They ought to be valued and respected.”
Sparrowhawks are small birds of prey. They're adapted for hunting birds in confined spaces like dense woodland, so gardens are ideal hunting grounds for them.
According to the RSPB, adult male sparrowhawks have bluish-grey back and wings and orangey-brown bars on their chest and belly.
Females and young birds have brown back and wings, and brown bars underneath. Sparrowhawks have bright yellow or orangey eyes, long, yellow legs and long talons.
Females are larger than males, as with all birds of prey.
Download the FREE Renfrewshire Live app now for all the latest news, features and sport in your area. Available on both Android and Apple. Download here: smarturl.it/RenfrewLiveSocial
