An investigation has been launched after a red-listed bird was killed at a Harwich fast-food restaurant a few weeks after being released by a rescue organisation. 

A great black-backed gull, fondly named Albert Tross by the Wildlives Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre, sadly lost its live at the McDonald’s car park in the town on Novmeber 11. 

The bird, which is listed as a bird of conservation concern in the UK, was found merely four to five months old and brought to the rescue organisation after being found collapsed at a farm. 

Rosie Catford from the rescue centre helped nurture it back to health and strength. 

She said: “We had to tube feed him, but he started to get better and start eating by himself. 

“He was put in rehabilitation to get muscle strength to get fit and ready for his release. 

“In our enclosure, he looked so huge compared to the other birds, that I joked he might be an albatross. That’s why we named him Albert Tross.” 

The gull was tagged by a member of the British Trust for Ornithology, to gather data of the bird's behaviour for research, and which later identified it. 

It was released in late October after the rescue experts deemed it strong and healthy enough. 

“We believe he spotted some food at the McDonalds car park, which was his demise,” said Mrs Catford. 

“The RSPCA was contacted after there were posts on social media suggesting it was deliberate, that he was hit by a car.” 

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals got involved following the suggestions and has launched an investigation. 

Witnesses and evidence, such as cctv footage is gathered to help clarify whether the act was deliberate. 

Mrs Catford hopes that the investigation will see a clear result. 

She said: “Hopefully, it was caught on the restaurant’s CCTV and the culprits will be found.” 

The RSPCA has called the incident “upsetting” and is urging witnesses to come forward. 

A spokesman of the RSPCA said: “The RSPCA has been made aware of this upsetting incident and is investigating. 

“We would ask if anyone has any first hand information regarding this incident to please call the RSPCA inspectorate appeal line  on 0300 123 8018 quoting incident 01385508.”