A MUCH-loved bird who was often spotted in West Kirby has died.

'Harry', an American red-tailed hawk, escaped from a local man who had bought him in 2013.

A few falconers tried to recapture him but he wasn’t having any of it.

Since then, he has been free to fly around West Kirby, often being spotted by locals on the town's rooftops.

Sara Rara, a local resident, captured pictures of Harry on several occasions flying the skies of West Kirby and would watch him with her friend Jill Doyle.

Concerns had been raised over the raptor's health due to his overgrown beak.

She said: "We’re not sure of the cause of death. He really was the king of the skies. He was a very well known little legend."

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Wirral Globe:

Harry was found dead in the sheep field off Grange Road, West Kirby yesterday (February 1).

Sara added: "Many people are so upset about it. This is a tribute to the king of the skies. 

"We were concerned over his health but we had brilliant falconers ready to help but unfortunately, it was too late."

Residents have expressed their sadness on social media.

One said: "Such sad news Sara - he will be greatly missed."

Another added: "So sad what a beautiful bird."

One wrote: "How sad Sara, he'd been around for a good few years."