Inquiries are still continuing after a rare peregrine falcon was shot dead in the Yorkshire Dales near Grassington, say police.

Wildlife crime officer Simon Crossley says patrols are being carried out in the area the bird was found, at Hebden Beck, and the police are working with other agencies, including the RSPB, RSPCA , The National Wildlife Crime Unit, and the Yorkshire Dales National Park, to trace the culprit.

He revealed that the peregrine was first discovered apparently injured but still alive approximately two days prior to him recovering it.

The member of public who saw it thought it would be okay, said PC Crossley, but went back to the location a couple of days later to find it dead.

"I recovered the bird from a public footpath at the side of Hebden Beck," he said.

"The bird had a visible wound to its right wing and no other visible injuries. The bird appeared other wise to be in very good condition.

"It was x rayed the next day and a number of shotgun pellets could be seen, one of which was embedded in its skull, the most likely cause of death.

"Inquiries are ongoing to identify the person responsible."

Peregrine Falcons are protected under The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the penalties can be 6 months in prison and/or a fine.

Anyone with any information that would lead to the identification of the person responsible should email simon.crossley@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk