A FURNESS man has been arrested on suspicion of intentionally killing a protected wild bird and of being in possession of illegal poisons, pesticides and firearms.

Cumbria police’s wildlife crime team joined forces with Natural England and National Wildlife Crime Officer Andy McWilliam to carry out a search warrant at a Ulverston farm yesterday.

The warrant came about after inquiries into the alleged illegal poisoning and shooting of Red Kites.

A number of illegal poisons, pesticides and firearms were found and removed from the farm.

PC John Baldwin, a wildlife crime officer, said poisonous substances that used to be lawful to buy and use for pest control have become illegal to buy, possess and use, but items that may still be on farms could be hazardous to human and animal health.

PC Baldwin said: “It’s desirable that these items are removed and made safe. Anyone who thinks that they might have poison which falls under this description should contact Natural England on 0300 0600 039.”

Such poisons are Strychnine, Cyanide and Bendiocarb, but advice can be given on any chemical.

The man has been released without charge and bailed until July 21.

On June 8, police announced they were investigating the death of a red kite which had been poisoned.

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