The CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) is seeking the public’s help in their investigation into the illegal shooting of a red-tailed hawk in Oxford. In late December, DEEP received a report of a raptor impaled with an arrow. The hawk was captured and brought to a wildlife rehabilitation center, where BBs and an air rifle pellet were also discovered in its body. The injured bird is currently recovering.

Any information can be provided to the Environmental Conservation Police 24-hour tip line at (860) 424-3333.

Under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act, it is illegal to take, injure, or harass any bird of prey. Property owners may not kill birds of prey in defense of livestock without proper permission.