“A police probe has been launched after three dead badgers were dumped on a west Cumbrian beach.
The discovery was made at Seascale and it is believed at least one of the animals had been shot. Officers are investigating to find out the circumstances which led to the deaths.
The force is warning people that killing badgers is a criminal offence.
An animal charity has now warned there has been an upsurge in animal cruelty.
Dominic Dyer, chief executive of the Badger Trust, said badger baiting was on the increase as well as more animals being killed by farmers and landowners. He also said there had been disturbing occasions were they had been killed by spades, snared, shot and even had petrol poured over them.
“The persecution of these animals is a growing problem and at the end of the day we have got to be vigilant, and try to bring these people to justice,” Mr Dyer told the News & Star.
“Badgers are a highly protected species and the level of crime involving them is on the increase.
“I believe one of the badgers found at Seascale had been shot.”
Mr Dyer added that he was pleased to see that Cumbria police was taking the matter seriously and investigating, adding that the penalties for illegally killing badgers are a maximum £5,000 fine and even a six-month spell in prison.
The killings have shocked people living in the area.”
To read the full article click here
Source: Express and Star
