Poisoned buzzard found on estate

An investigation has been launched following the discovery of an illegally poisoned bird of prey on a Highlands estate.

It is the third buzzard to be found poisoned on Gledfield Estate near Ardgay in Sutherland in the past 12 months.

Police said the dead raptor was found by the estate's gamekeeper.

Northern Constabulary said its inquiries included officers speaking to local farmers.

Pc Dominic Corcoran said: "The poisoning of birds of prey is highly irresponsible and criminal.

"What's more it threatens the wildlife for which the Highlands is renowned."

The Scottish Government and Rural Payments Agency, which withdraws subsidies from landowners found to have committed wildlife crimes, have been informed.