​Bird deaths lead to encouraging public response.

RSPB Scotland has set up a Justgiving webpage after being inundated by donations following the deaths of 16 birds of prey in the Highlands.

Our staff have been inundated with calls from concerned members of the public voicing their personal anger and frustration about this appalling incident

The charity is offering an award for information as to who is responsible for the deaths of the birds.

Four buzzards and 12 red kites have been found in the last two weeks near Conon Bridge, with tests showing several had been poisoned.

In the Highlands, all of the carcasses were discovered in a two square mile area to the south east of Conon Bridge around Conon Brae, Balvail, Leanaig and Alcaig.

Police are working with the RSPB, the Scottish SPCA and experts from the Scottish Agricultural College to investigate the deaths.

RSPB Scotland initially put up a £5,000 reward for information which was then doubled with an anonymous donation.

Duncan Orr-Ewing, head of species and land management at RSPB, said: "Our staff have been inundated with calls from concerned members of the public voicing their personal anger and frustration about this appalling incident and calling for firm action by the authorities against the perpetrators.

"Many have said they would like to contribute financially to the reward already on offer, and this Justgiving webpage will allow those who wish to do so.

"We urge anyone with information to contact Police Scotland as soon as possible."