Reward increases in shooting of great blue heron

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.

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.