An appeal for info has actually been introduced after a Red Kite crash-landed into travelers in London with a number of shotgun pellets consequently discovered embedded in its body.
The event happened on 11 February [2023], when the bird was seen falling from the sky near the Royal Observatory in Greenwich. RSPCA officer Rodney Kenny said: “This poor bird was resting on his back on the ground and gasping for breath after crash-landing into the shocked travelers. People had actually seen him flying low over the park attempting to prevent a group of crows which had actually been mobbing him right before he fell out of the sky.
The Red Kite was restored by the RSPCA (South Essex Wildlife Hospital).
“A kind Met officer followed our guidance by covering the bird with his coat to keep the kite calm and warm, and stuck with him up until I got here. I took the bird straight to South Essex Wildlife Hospital where he got specialist treatment from their wildlife veterinarians.
“When he was X-rayed, they were shocked to see shotgun pellets embedded in his body. Happily, the pellets unbelievely didn’t impact any essential organs and the bird is now recuperating well. Once restored, he can ideally be launched back into the wild, where he belongs.
“We are extremely worried by this harsh and completely inappropriate event. Someone out there is unlawfully targeting wildlife. It’s definitely revolting that somebody would actively target and shoot this bird. We are working carefully with the Met Police Wildlife Crime system and RSPB to examine this event.
“If anybody saw the shooting – which might have happened some range from Greenwich – or has any other info about the intentional attack on this kite, we would advise them to call the RSPCA appeals line on 0300 123 8018 or the Metropolitan Police Wildlife Unit by dialling 101 or reporting online.”
