Dismembered white-fronted goose found in plastic bag near river

Police have launched an appeal after a protected species of goose was shot and disposed of in a plastic bag near a Highland river.

The discovery was made on the banks of River Thurso in Halkirk, Caithness at around 2.30pm on Tuesday January 30 2024.

Officers confirmed the bird was a white-fronted goose, which had been shot and had its head, wings and feet removed.

Local wildlife crime officer Police Constable Thomas Staples said: “The white fronted goose is a protected species under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, and it is illegal to kill them.

“I am asking anyone in the local community who may be able to help with our enquires to come forward”.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident 2114 of 31/01/2024, or contact crime stoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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