Appeal Over Shooting of Sparrowhawk

An appeal for information in relation to the shooting of a sparrowhawk in the Rathkenny area has been made by the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.

The bird was found hanging dead from a gate post at a field along a public road. 

The sparrowhawk, a small bird of prey, is protected under the Wildlife Act. 

The National Parks and Wildlife Service are appealing to anyone with information to contact the local Navan office on 0761002636.

A sparrowhawk (Accipter nisus) is a small bird of prey common in the Irish countryside.  It hunts small birds along hedgerows and in woodland.  It is a very fast and agile hunter and it is often only seen as a quick flash in flight. This beautiful small bird of prey poses no threat to livestock or crops.

Minister Jimmy Deenihan said 'Birds of prey, such as sparrowhawks, eagles and harriers, are an indicator of the state of Ireland’s ecological health. They are also a key part of our heritage and of great benefit to tourism.  With regard to this recent incident my officials have notified the crime prevention officer in the area. I am asking people to be vigilant and to come forward with any information they may have about this case.'