RSPCA investigates after rabbits found dead in Rotherham

Wild rabbits were discovered hanging from trees in suspicious circumstances

(Blurred image) one of the dead rabbits found earlier this month
Author: Matt SoanesPublished 21st Apr 2026

WARNING: THE BELOW ARTICLE CONTAINS A DISTRESSING IMAGE

The RSPCA has initiated an investigation after the bodies of four rabbits were found in suspicious circumstances in Rotherham.

A passerby first encountered a dead rabbit hanging from a tree on April 4, and four days later, three additional rabbits were found similarly situated in a wooded area on Haugh Road, Rawmarsh, opposite Rawmarsh Comprehensive School.

Animal Rescue Officer Mark Richardson attended the alarming scene saud:

"I could see one dead rabbit hanging from the tree and another on the floor - but this may have fallen from the tree"

One of the dead rabbits hanging from a tree

"Another two were also seen in the trees."

"It was really distressing for the passerby to come across this awful incident, and I do wonder if they were intentionally killed - but we are not sure how - then thrown into the trees in the hope that a bird of prey may have taken their bodies off."

The RSPCA is urging anyone who has seen anything suspicious to contact the charity’s confidential appeal line on 0300 123 8018.

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