RSPCA inspectors are trying to trace cruel pranksters who doused pigeons in vegetable oil.

The birds were unable to fly after their ordeal and are now recovering at a wildlife centre.

A number of affected birds were seen by a member of the public in Parkside Gardens, near Redhill Park in Bournemouth.

The woman managed to catch two pigeons, which were soaked from the rain after being coated in oil.

The same woman told inspectors she had seen birds covered in oil in the area on a previous occasion.

“The birds were taken to a local wildlife organisation where they were washed but the oil would not come out so they will have to be kept until they moult and a new set of feathers have grown through before they can be released,” said Jo Barr from the RSPCA.

“It is bizarre that somebody should be deliberately targeting birds in this way but, at the same time, it is hard to imagine how this could be an accident.”

She said those responsible are being cruel because “leaving the birds covered in oil means their feathers are not waterproof, leaving these creatures in a state where they cannot escape predators so they are very vulnerable”.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the RSPCA cruelty and information line in confidence on 0300 1234 999.