The birds were found in the Glenhead Road area of Ballymena on May 15. A post-mortem examination revealed both birds tested positive for the insecticide bendiocarb. The Police Service of Northern Ireland is investigating how they came in contact with the insecticide. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) have offered a reward of £5,000 for information leading to the prosecution of those involved in the poisoning. Rural and Wildlife Crime Superintendent Johnston McDowell said the illegal killing of the “majestic birds” is “disgraceful”.

Source: The Herald July 07, 2023 12:22 UTC