Specialist police wildlife crime officers are appealing for information following the discovery of a dead buzzard.

The find was made in the Millcroft area in Strathaven, South Lanarkshire, on Friday by a member of the public.

Police are continuing enquiries to establish the exact cause of death and to ascertain whether any crime was committed in relation to the death of the bird.

PC David Woods, said, "Due the inherent scavenging nature of buzzards, they are particularly vulnerable to the illegal use of poisonous bait. We will be working closely with experts at the Scottish Agricultural College and Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture to carry out a post-mortem examination and toxicology tests to determine cause of death.

"This is just a recent example of how Police Scotland work with partner agencies to help combat wildlife crime. I would appeal to anyone in the area to contact the police on 101 to report any suspicious activity."