AN arrest has been made after a falcon which was reportedly stolen from the Shaftesbury area had its head and legs removed.

Police are appealing for witnesses after they received a report that two peregrine falcons and a peregrine lanner falcon hybrid were stolen or escaped following forced entry to three aviaries at a rural property near Shaftesbury between 10pm on April 13 and 7am the following day.

At least three peregrine eggs were also reported as stolen from an artificial nest.

Dorset Police Rural Crime Team have now arrested a 34-year-old man from Shaftesbury on suspicion of burglary and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal.

He has been released on police bail as officers continue their investigation.

PC Sebastian Haggett said one of the birds died after “its head and legs were removed”.

“We are continuing to investigate this incident and we are appealing for anyone with information who has not already spoken to police to come forward,” he said.

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“Evidence gathered at the scene of this incident suggests that these birds have suffered terribly, with one of them having their primary feathers removed causing injury, while another bird died after its head and legs were removed.

“Consequently, we are still trying to locate the remaining birds and their eggs to ensure they get the appropriate medical attention they need to prevent further suffering.

“Their owners are heartbroken by what has happened, so we are keen to find those believed to be responsible and hold them accountable for their actions.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police by calling 101, using reference number 55250052806 or to make a report via the Dorset Police website.

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