Three pigeons shot dead near Dorset children's playground

The birds were found in a tree at Ferndown, with the RSPCA investigating

X-rays showing airgun pellets in the pigeons have been released by the animal welfare charity
Author: Faye TryhornPublished 4th May 2023

WARNING - graphic images in this article

Three pigeons have been found shot dead near a children's playground in Dorset.

The RSPCA is investigating what happened, after being contacted by a member of the public on Friday (21st April).

The birds had been placed into a tree at Tricketts Cross, at Dugdale Close in Ferndown.

X-rays on the pigeons have shown airgun pellets inside their bodies.

RSPCA inspector Graham Hammond said:

“It is concerning that these pigeons had been shot and left in such a way. All were still in rigor, indicating this was a very recent event. All are believed to have been killed by a pellet ball, which has shown up on the x-ray.

“Such unnecessary and callous attacks can cause a lot of pain and distress to birds, and are often fatal as was the case with these birds. Anyone with information should contact the RSPCA on 0300 123 8018.”

The dead pigeons had been placed into a tree after the incident

The animal welfare charity is reminding people that it's an offence to injure or kill a wild bird under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (except under licence).

Offenders can face a fine of up to £5,000 and six months in prison.

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