DNR seeking person who shot falcon (Watertown WI.)

[Donna]

An injured peregrine falcon was found in the city of Watertown last week and taken to an area animal rehabilitation center. Wildlife officials are searching for the person who may have shot the endangered species.

Department of Natural Resources warden Dave Walz said the bird was shot through the wing and was unable to fly although no bones were broken in the wing. The bird was rescued by a local resident who found it wounded and took it to the Wildlife in Need center located outside of Oconomowoc. The falcon will be rehabilitated at the center and released after a full recovery.

Peregrine falcons are a large, crow-sized falcon, with a blue-gray back, barred white underparts and a black head and “moustache.� The falcon injured was a two-year-old female. It was banded by wildlife officials near the Mississippi River where it was born. By tracking and monitoring the bird through its band, Walz said officials know that it raised young near the Mayfair Mall in Milwaukee over the summer.

Although the shooting of a peregrine falcon is unusual in the city, Walz said there have been many instances of local residents shooting at hawks during the winter.

“A lot of people don't like hawks hanging around their songbird feeders, so they tend to be easy targets for shooting,� Walz said. “We're not sure what exactly happened to this bird, but we've had people shoot birds for that similar reason.�
Walz said peregrine falcons are listed as an endangered species at the state and the federal level. Walz said the intentional shooting of the bird can carry a hefty fine.

Those who may know more about the bird shooting are asked to call Walz at 262-9508. They can also contact the local police department or call the DNR hotline.

WDT Online