Reward increased in shooting of great blue heron

Reward offered to find whoever is responsible for shooting a great blue heron. (Wildlife Emergency Services)

HOLLISTER, Calif. (KGO) -- The reward for finding the person who shot a great blue heron with an air rifle is now more than $6,000.

The wounded bird was found last week in Hollister. It was huddled in a corner in someone's backyard.

An x-ray later showed pellets from an air rifle lodged in the bird's chest.

X-ray shows great blue heron was shot with pellets from an air rifle.

Wildlife - SPCA for Monterey County

The heron is now being cared for at the International Bird Rescue in Fairfield. It's being treated for gunshot wounds and a fractured wing.

Anyone with information can submit a confidential report through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife CalTip line at 1-888-334-2258 or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at 650-876-9078.

Reward increases in shooting of great blue heron