A kestrel that lost its way back home has been found by a local ornithologist who is keen to trace its owner.

Bird of prey expert Howard Toll was contacted by a fellow enthusiast in Ingrow who found the kestrel, and he is now anxious to trace the bird's owner.

He says: "The bird is female and in good condition and ringed. She obviously belongs to someone in this area who has taken good care of her.

"As soon as I was contacted about the kestrel I was in touch with the Department of Environment, and I have let all the relevant agencies know I have the bird."

Howard, who lives in Wilsden, has made it his mission to treat sick birds of prey, before releasing them back into the wild. He believes the bird is around five years old, and for the moment he is keeping it in a special holding box.

Anyone who thinks they recognise the kestrel can contact Howard Toll on 275450.

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