Rare falcon chicks stolen from Beeston Castle

Jun 5 2008 by Naomi Dunning, Chester Chronicle

AN INVESTIGATION is under way to catch bird thieves who stole three rare peregrine chicks from the crag at Beeston Castle.

On Tuesday, May 20 a group of what appeared to be climbers were seen walking away from the castle - police believe these men stole the peregrine young.

The loss of the rare birds was confirmed on Monday when the police and registered bird ringers climbed the crag to check on the birds. Peregrines are relatively rare but the numbers have been gradually increasing over the years.

Cheshire Police wildlife and environment officer Martin Findlow said everything was being done to catch the culprits.

He said: “A small group of young men were inside the grounds of Beeston Castle out of hours on the Tuesday evening. They spotted a group of men with what looked like climbing gear and ropes.

“One of the young men thought this was suspicious and confronted the group. As a result of the confrontation the men ran off. We believe they were carrying the three peregrine chicks.”

Mr Findlow said a member of the public had spotted a small blue vehicle parked near to the castle which they believe the suspects were using.

Full story in Friday’s Chronicle.