BIRD guardians are calling for tougher action from the Government to stop the "slaughter" of birds of prey.

The RSPB say urgent measures need to be taken to clamp down on the poisoning and shooting of raptors - figures are highest in North Yorkshire.

It follows the shooting of a peregrine falcon which was found in Hebden Gill, near Grassington, last October, and sparked a police investigation.

The charity believes a change in attitude from within the game bird shooting industry and a commitment from the government to toughen up on legislation enforcement is essential.

It's Birdcrime 2015 report revealed a number of incidents against raptors in North Yorkshire including a poisoned red kite, a poisoned buzzard, a shot tawny owl, a shot buzzard and a shot kestrel.

Nationwide there were 196 shootings and destruction of birds of prey including the confirmed shooting of 16 buzzards, 11 peregrines, three red kites, one red-footed falcon and one hen harrier.

The report, published online for the first time, also shows 50 reports of wildlife poisoning and pesticide-related offences.

These figures represented only a fraction of the illegal persecution in the UK, with many incidents going undetected and unreported, said Martin Harper, RSPB Director of Conservation,

"Our birds of prey are magnificent creatures and the sight of a hen harrier’s dramatic sky-dancing display flight is simply breathtaking. Everyone should be able to witness this but sadly millions of people are denied this opportunity.

"People care deeply about the future of our birds of prey and their concerns must not be ignored.

“The status quo is not an option. Change is essential if we are to improve environmental condition of our uplands.”

For the first time in January 2015, an Aberdeenshire gamekeeper, George Mutch, received a four months prison sentence for the killing of a goshawk, the illegal use of two cage traps, and the taking of a buzzard and a second goshawk.

Peregrine Falcons are protected under The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the penalties can be six months in prison and/or a fine.

Anyone with any information that would lead to the identification of the person responsible should email simon.crossley@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk