A Department of Conservation (DOC) Hawke's Bay ranger was called out to pick up a shot karearea/New Zealand falcon from a farm in Maraekakaho.
The threatened and endemic bird was taken to a Taradale vet, who noted the bird's broken leg and sent it to Massey University where it was euthanised.
Massey pathologist Stuart Hunter says the young female karearea was healthy and in good body condition when she was shot in the lower left leg.
"The swelling and haemorrhage that accompanied the wound indicate the bird was alive when shot.
"This kind of fracture is very difficult to repair and euthanasia was the most humane option," said Hunter.