The buzzard was found in mid-July, but its cause of death has only been confirmed this week.
The contents of its digestive system were sent over to the UK for testing, along with the entire pigeon, which was found alongside the dead buzzard. It’s believed the bird of prey died whilst eating the pigeon, both of which were found to have consumed professional-use pesticides.
A number of Guernsey wildlife organisations and individuals have contributed to a £16,500 reward for anyone with information that leads to the conviction of the person responsible for the poisonings.
“States officers would like to reiterate that if someone were to come across an intoxicated, injured or dead bird of prey, please do not touch it with bare hands,” a spokesperson for the States of Guernsey said.
“Gloves should be worn to handle the bird.”
Pictured top: A common buzzard.