A BIRD believed to have been shot in Wolverley is recovering but will never be released back into the wild.

Police suspect the injured buzzard, which was found on Tuesday last week in Sladd Lane, was shot by either a shotgun or air weapon.

A man reported hearing gunfire near to where the bird was discovered at about 9.45am.

It is now recovering at the home of Kidderminster veterinary nurse, Emily George, after sustaining injuries to both wings.

It is hoped the bird will be able to fly again but it will have to be moved to a sanctuary when fully recovered.

PC Kay Fillmore, of Kidderminster police, said that although it could not be said for certain how the bird was harmed, its injuries were consistent with it being shot.

Tony Kettle, chairman of the Kidderminster branch of the West Midlands Bird Club, has called for stiffer penalties to deter people from carrying out similar acts of cruelty.

He added: "When I hear of cruelty to birds and wildlife it just sickens me. I fail to understand what pleasure people can get from doing such things."

Andy Waters, spokesman for the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, said: "If the bird has been shot then it is simply outrageous and ridiculous.

"The whole community should be outraged if this is the case because these acts are a big reason why many wild birds can no longer be seen in the area."

Mr Waters added the law had been strengthened and people who were found guilty of harming birds could be imprisoned for up to six months and be fined £5,000 for each offence.

Witnesses or anyone with information should call Kidderminster police on 08457 444888 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.