Police investigations are underway after a sparrowhawk was shot and killed in Cowie on Thursday, April 18.
Officers attended along with staff from the Scottish SPCA after receiving a report from a member of the public that the bird of prey had been injured and may possibly have been shot.
A spokesperson for the Scottish SPCA said: “We took an injured sparrow hawk to our National Wildlife Rescue Centre. Sadly, the sparrow hawk died from its injuries later that day.
“We would urge anyone with any information to contact our animal helpline on 03000 999 999 or Police Scotland on 101.”
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “This is a fantastic example of members of the public being vigilant and reporting Wildlife crime to the police and SSPCA – targeting persons committing Wildlife offences.
“If you witness an incident please contact the police on 101 or speak to PC Laura Robertson the Wildlife Officer.”
The Scottish SPCA received 200 reports of persecution towards birds of prey in 2017/18, a rise or 57 per cent from 127 in 2015/16.
