Pigeons shot with arrows in 'cruel attack'

Two pigeons have been spotted with arrows through their legs in Duston

The RSPCA is investigating after two pigeons were spotted with arrows through their legs.

The birds were seen struggling to walk but still able to fly in Duston, Northamptonshire.

The RSPCA said local people were monitoring the birds and reporting any updates.

The charity has urged anyone with information to come forward.

Beckie Harlock, the RSPCA inspector who has been investigating the incident, said: “It is heartbreaking to think that someone has intentionally shot these poor birds with the purpose of causing harm or killing them.

"This cruel attack will be causing them unnecessary pain and suffering."

The charity said the birds could still fly and were therefore difficult to catch, but local people were monitoring them and providing updates to the RSPCA.

Ms Harlock added: "If anyone does see these birds and is able to catch them and take them to a vet, we would urge them to please let the RSPCA know."

The RSPCA says harming all wild birds is illegal without a licence

The charity pointed out that all wild birds were protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and it was illegal - except under licence - to take, injure or kill wild birds.

The RSPCA said it was "braced for a spike of animal cruelty this summer", as "we receive more reports cruelty in summer than at any other time of year".

It has launched a summer appeal to support its front-line officers.

The charity has been trying to collect £1.15m to build Northamptonshire's first animal centre.

The Rockingham Rocks Festival at Rockingham Castle near Kettering took place on Saturday to raise money for the project.