A laser beam has disturbed a peregrine nest causing a mother to abandon her chick.
Police are investigating the disturbance at St Peter and St Paul's church in Cromer after the laser was shone into the Cromer Peregrine Project nest on Saturday, May 25.
The female bird left the nest for "an extended period of time", leaving the chick behind, after the light was shone straight into the box.
READ MORE: Peregrine falcon chicks hatch at top of Norfolk church tower
The police have confirmed she did return many hours later and her remaining chick appears "none the worse".
Officers have shared images from the nest box camera showing a powerful green light shining into it.
Disturbing a nesting bird is a criminal offence and the rural crime team has warned of significant consequences.
Peregrines are also listed on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act.
READ MORE: Cranes at nature reserve thrilled to welcome chick after long-term fertility battle
Peregrine falcons have been nesting in the church tower since 2019.
More than 13,000 people used the watchpoint's binoculars and telescopes to see two female peregrine chicks hatch and fledge last year.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Norfolk Constabulary.
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