Protected birds shot in Rîșcani district, Moldova

Five protected birds, including one black stork and four Eurasian spoonbills, were found shot near a water basin in the Pîrjota village area of the Rîșcani district. Both species are listed in the Red Book of Moldova.

The incident was discovered after the GPS signal of the black stork, which was being monitored by specialists in Estonia during its first migration to Africa, abruptly stopped in northern Moldova.

Environmental inspectors, alongside representatives from the National Agency for Food Safety and local authorities, conducted an investigation at the scene. Ballistic and veterinary examinations confirmed the presence of small metal projectiles from hunting cartridges. Authorities have identified suspects and seized three weapons, which are being examined to determine if they were used in the killings. A criminal investigation is ongoing to identify those responsible and establish the circumstances of the incident.