A SQUIRREL suffered horror injuries and had to be euthanised after it was shot out of a tree in Poole by two youths using a catapult.

The attack, which left the small animal with blood coming from its nose and mouth, happened in the communal gardens between blocks of flats in Lagland Street.

Witnesses reported that they saw two boys, thought to be in their early teens, with a catapult shooting at the squirrel between 9am and 10am on Sunday, January 31.

RSPCA Inspector Patrick Bailey, who was called to help the squirrel for the animal charity, said: “After the squirrel was shot out of the tree, a member of public noticed the squirrel taking shelter under a large wheelie bin in a locked bin store, with blood coming from the nose and mouth.

“They rang us and also rang the police because the attackers were seen to return to the grounds a couple of times in the morning and appeared to be looking on the ground for the squirrel.

“When I arrived I found the squirrel cold, exposed, and huddled up near a small bush.

"The poor little thing had a very swollen face with dried blood around the right eye, his nose and mouth, and was unable to put any weight on one front leg. He was examined by a vet and was sadly euthanised."

The RSPCA is appealing for anyone with information about the attack on this squirrel is encouraged to contact the animal welfare charity’s inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.

The charity is also calling for people to show kindness towards wildlife.

“This mindless, intentional act of cruelty caused the squirrel significant pain, to suffer unnecessarily until it could be rescued and then ultimately lose its life. Such behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated," said Mr Bailey.

"Local residents of the flats explained how the particular tree was known locally as ‘The Squirrel Tree’ because they would enjoy watching them climbing and scrambling all around the trunk.

“Watching wildlife from your window can be a simple pleasure enjoyed by many, especially at a time when we are all required to stay at home during the national lockdown.”

This winter, the RSPCA expects to rescue thousands of animals from neglect, cruelty and suffering.

Over Christmas the charity received more than 44,000 calls to its cruelty line and the calls are continuing.

Residents can find out how to support the work of the RSPCA this winter by visiting rspca.org.uk/xmas.