HOLLISTER, Calif. (KGO) -- Wildlife officials are offering reward money to find whoever is responsible for shooting a great blue heron.
The wounded bird was found last week in Hollister. It was huddled in a corner in someone's backyard.
Officials with the SPCA for Monterey County Wildlife Center rescued the heron.
X-rays revealed the bird was shot with pellets from an air rifle.
Supporters have raised more than $5,000 for information leading to an arrest.
The heron is now being cared for at the International Bird Rescue in Fairfield
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.