A gull has been shot in Sandown and the RSPCA is appealing for information.
The animal welfare charity was contacted by a concerned member of the public on May 2 after the gull was found unable to move in a garden in Araluen Way.
RSPCA Inspector Mark Buggie, who is investigating for the animal welfare charity, said:
“The gull had been in a resident’s front garden for some time and did not move when approached so they called us to help.
“The bird was totally exhausted and had no use of their legs and a spot of blood on the underside of the body. Very sadly the injuries were serious for this poor bird and they had to be put to sleep.”
At a vets, an x-ray revealed a pellet embedded in the gull’s body - suggesting that the bird had been deliberately attacked.
Mark added:
“This is such a cruel and cowardly act especially at this time of year when this adult bird should have been nesting. That’s not to mention how dangerous and idiotic it is to fire weapons in a built up area.
“We’re now issuing an appeal for information to try and find out who has done this. Anyone with any information is urged to contact our inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018 or the Police on 101.
“Every year the RSPCA receives almost 1,000 calls to investigate cases like this and help hundreds of animals that are the defenseless victims of air gun attacks.
“Cats and wildlife are normally the animals that are more susceptible to these incidents simply because they are out in the open with no one to protect them. The injuries caused by such attacks are horrific and often fatal - as was the case with this poor gull.”
The RSPCA is calling for tighter controls on air weapons. This, along with better education and explanation of the law when buying an air gun, and requirements that everyone must receive basic safety training before being allowed to walk out of the shop, could help relieve the problem, says the charity.
All wild birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and it is illegal - except under licence - to take, injure or kill wild birds
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