An RSPCA appeal for information has been launched after a suspected double pigeon shooting in the Adamsdown area of Cardiff.
RSPCA inspector Darren Oakley was alerted after a member spotted a pigeon with an injured wing on 29 January.
The caller had safely confined the injured bird – but as inspector Oakley approached the property, he spotted another pigeon dead on the roadside.
Both birds were taken to a local veterinary practice – and X-rays revealed a pellet inside the body of the deceased bird, while the other pigeon had a pellet-sized hole to his wing. Sadly, the extent of his injuries meant he had to be put to sleep to prevent further suffering.
It is an offence to take, injure or kill pigeons – except under licence – under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. RSPCA Cymru “cannot be sure” whether the shootings were done under licence – but have urged anyone with information to get in touch.
Inspector Oakley said: “Sadly, two pigeons have lost their lives in the Adamsdown area of Cardiff due to pellet injuries.
“A member of the public safely confined an injured pigeon, and as I approached their property, I found another pigeon who was already dead as a consequence of a pellet gun. Unfortunately, the other bird had to be put to sleep soon afterwards due to the extent of his injuries.
“Unless under licence, it is an offence to take, injure or kill pigeons under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. While we cannot be sure if the shooter here was operating under licence, we’re eager for more information to decipher what has gone on.
“Anyone with information about these pigeon shootings in Adamsdown in late January is urged to contact our inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018. We so often rely on the public to be our eyes and ears – and any information you might have could help.”
