DEADLY weapons including crossbows are being used to deliberately target wildlife and pets, report the RSPCA.
The animal welfare charity believes UK wildlife is under threat as cases of animal harm rise.
Figures reveal that 12 official reports of animals being affected by weapons were made in Dorset alone in the past three years, compared to other counties which had only one case.
The true number, however, is believed to be much higher.
Wild birds and pet cats seem to be the prime targets of these attacks, followed by wild mammals, dogs, farm animals and horses.
Last month, a group of youths from Dorset were reported to have repeatedly shot nesting ducks and swans with catapults along the River Frome.
RSPCA national wildlife coordinator Geoff Edmond said: “It is unspeakably cruel, totally unacceptable and illegal to shoot animals for ‘fun’ - or as target practice, but sadly our emergency line is receiving hundreds of reports.
READ MORE: Dorchester duck killings 'heartless and thoughtless'
“We think of ourselves as a nation of animal lovers, but the RSPCA’s experience shows that there are people out there who are deliberately targeting wildlife, pets and farm animals with guns, catapults and crossbows. These weapons cause horrific pain and suffering.
“Day after day, our frontline officers and animal centres see the sickening consequences of weapons being used on animals - severe injuries often leading to death.
“And what we deal with is probably only the tip of the iceberg as not all cases will be reported to the RSPCA directly and there may be situations where animals injured and killed by these weapons are sadly never found - especially in the case of wildlife.”
READ MORE: Dorset RSPCA: 5 animals who are looking for new homes
Airguns are one of the most used weapons in intentional harm cases against animals and, as a result, the RSPCA have campaigned to tighten legislation.
The amended firearm legislation, restricting unsupervised minors to be in possession of air weapons, was agreed in July 2022 but is yet to be implemented.
All wild birds are also protected under UK law and anyone who kills, injures, or takes them could face six months in prison and/or an unlimited fine.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here