In January, a deceased white tailed sea eagle was found on private land in Dorset.

White tailed sea eagles have a red conservation status, meaning they are in danger of extinction worldwide.

Assistant Chief Constable Rachel Farrell said: “Dorset Police has completed its investigation into the death of a white tailed sea eagle found on private land in the county earlier this year.

“Following the report of the white tailed sea eagle being found deceased in January 2022, the matter was initially investigated by Dorset Police alongside Natural England and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

“Following further communication with partner agencies, a review of the investigation was commenced by experienced detectives to ensure no investigative opportunities had been missed and to enable further work with Natural England and the Health and Safety Executive to understand the evidence.

“As part of the reinvestigation, further lines of enquiry were identified and we engaged with the wildlife crime lead from the CPS. However, following consultation with Natural England and the HSE, the review concluded that, although there was very high levels of rodenticides in the bird, there was insufficient evidence to prove an offence of wilful poisoning by an individual – so no one person can be proven to have been criminally responsible for the bird’s death. Therefore, in line with national guidance, the matter remains under investigation by HSE.

“Evidence from a post-mortem examination concluded the white tailed sea eagle died as a result of consuming those rodenticides, which is a type of pesticide regulated by the HSE.

“Wildlife crime remains a key objective of the recently expanded Dorset Police Rural Crime Team, who will continue to work in partnership with stakeholders to investigate criminal offences and bring offenders brought to justice.”

An HSE spokesperson said: “Further to the enquires made to date, we are making enquiries to check that rodenticides are being stored, managed and used in accordance with the manufacturers’ instructions and any relevant restrictions.”