Police say that a buzzard found shot in the Borders suffered a cruel and slow death.
The bird of prey was found next to a forestry plantation at St Mary’s Loch in the Yarrow Valley.
It was discovered by a dog walker close to the loch’s weir at Bowerhope on March 6, but details have only just been released.
Tests show it may have died on Sunday, March 3 and police have appealed for information.
Constable Hannah Medley, wildlife crime liaison officer commented: “This bird would have suffered a cruel, slow and painful death.
“We are appealing for any information that can help us trace the person responsible.”
Information can be passed to the police on 101 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.