An investigation has been launched after a number of wild birds were found dead with shotgun wounds in an east Suffolk woodland. 

Officers have said that 13 wild birds, including four gulls, were found dead in woods in Butley, near Woodbridge. 

X-rays showed that one of the gulls contained a shot in the head and neck, consistent with being shot with a shotgun. 

A spokesman for Suffolk police said none of the 13 dead birds were birds of prey but all birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Officers believe the birds were shot illegally.

Anyone with any information related to the incident is being asked to contact Suffolk police, quoting crime reference number 37/17999/24.