RSPCA appeal after gull killed by catapult in Kent
It is an offence to intentionally kill or injure the birds
A gull has been killed after being attacked with a catapult in Kent.
The RSPCA were called to the incident on Packham Road in Northfleet last weekend.
It's after a group of boys were reportedly seen firing a catapult at the bird - before picking it up by its wing and carrying it away.
A bird was later found dead outside another house in Packham Road and was taken to RSPCA Mallydams Wildlife Centre.
X-rays revealed the bird’s right elbow and wing bone had been shattered by a metal shot.
“It is really sad this beautiful bird appears to have died after being deliberately targeted , perhaps as part of a cruel game and went on to experience horrendous injuries before dying,” said RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Adam Tasker.
“The x-rays showed there was a round metallic foreign object eight millimetres (0.3in) in diameter near the bird’s right elbow.
"It caused a fracture which involved the humerus, radius and ulna and was consistent with a high impact trauma from being shot by a catapult.
“We are appealing for anyone who has any information about those responsible for this senseless killing to contact the RSPCA.”