Police are appealing for information after a peregrine falcon was found with what are believed to be shot wounds.

At about mid-day on Tuesday, the peregrine falcon was found dying near The Glaslyn Osprey Centre in Porthmadog.

An examination by RSPCA vets revealed it had probably been shot.

“This is a serious wildlife crime and we encourage anyone with information to come forward,” a spokesperson for North Wales Police Rural Crime Team said.

Glaslyn Osprey Centre staff, who are about to start 24-hour nest protection at the site because osprey eggs are due, said: “We were saddened to learn of the injury and eventual death of a peregrine falcon so close to our visitor centre.

“If you have any information, please contact the North Wales Police using the reference: 21000222577.”