Golden Eagle
The golden eagle is now receiving veterinary treatment and specialist care at the National Wildlife Rescue Centre.
Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn said, “This eagle has been caused tremendous pain and suffering.
“It became grounded after being shot, which caused the feathers on its tail and wings to break and meant it was unable to search for food.
“If the eagle hadn’t been found on Saturday it is very likely it would have starved to death.
“Golden eagles are extremely rare and it is very concerning that someone would deliberately try to injure or kill such a magnificent creature.
“As well as being cruel, injuring a wild bird is also a criminal offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and we are very keen to speak to anyone who has information about this incident.
“This eagle will require lengthy rehabilitation and expert treatment in our care.
“Although it’s very early days yet, it is feeding now and we are hopeful it will make a full recovery and we will be able to release it back into the wild next year.”
Minister for the Environment and Climate Change, Paul Wheelhouse, said, “I am extremely concerned and disappointed that this golden eagle, a very rare sight in this part of Scotland, has been shot and critically injured. This is completely unacceptable.
“Shooting a protected wild bird is a criminal offence and I would urge anyone with information to contact the Scottish SPCA or Dumfries and Galloway Police.
“Thankfully this golden eagle has survived and is receiving specialist care, and I hope in time it makes a full recovery.”
Anyone with any information is asked to call 03000 999 999.