A bird of prey has been found dead after "unusual activity" in an Oxfordshire park.
Thames Valley Police has said it has received several reports of irregular activity in the Willow Walk Nature Reserve in Wantage.
According to the force, members of the public have alerted them to nylon string being tied across large sections of the tree canopy.
READ MORE: MP slams Elon Musk's X as she quits site over 'sexual exploitation' of girls
A spokesperson for the South Oxon and Vale of White Horse unit said: “This isn’t accidental — the placement is deliberate, and it spans a wide area.
“The string has been found both high up in the canopy and low down between the trees, creating hazards at multiple levels.
“Sadly, this has already resulted in the death of a bird of prey that became trapped in the string.”
The force has said it doesn’t know the reasons for the string but has launched a probe as it creates a “serious risk to wildlife”.
The spokesperson said: “The layout resembles a spider’s web stretched through the canopy, creating a serious risk to wildlife.
Help support trusted local news
Sign up for a digital subscription now: https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/subscribe/As a digital subscriber you will get:
- Unlimited access to the Oxford Mail website
- Advert-light access
- Reader rewards
- Full access to our app
“If you notice anyone acting suspiciously in the area, or if you come across more of this string, please get in touch with us.
“Your information could help prevent further harm and assist us in identifying who is responsible.
“Thank you for staying alert and helping us protect the reserve.”
You can contact the police online or by calling 101; alternatively, for anonymity, you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
