Concern grows over catapult attacks after bird deaths

Concerns have grown about catapults being used to attack wildlife in West Sussex after 25 birds were found dead at a railway station.

West Sussex Wildlife Protection (WSWP) rescuers said they believed the doves and pigeons were dumped at Chichester Railway Station on 3 September after being killed with a catapult the night before.

Residents in nearby Selsey have been patrolling East Beach Pond, after what they said had been 15 attacks in the seaside town this year alone.

British Transport Police (BTP) said it was investigating the Chichester attack, while Sussex Police said such reports were "relatively rare" but there had been patrols, including by plain clothes officers, in the area.

WSWP said station staff were "equally horrified by what they saw" on 3 September.

The charity said the birds went to a vets for a post-mortem examination and X-rays to confirm their deaths were from a catapult attack.

Michelle Mears, who set up the patrol group in Selsey last year, said it was a "massive" concern.

"It's being done for fun, not any other purpose other than outright blatant killing," she said.

"We've had to pick up numerous dead animals. These birds are innocently nesting and shot out of the trees in the churchyard [too].

"We're patrolling daily to ensure the animals are kept safe. It's just shocking."

A Sussex Police spokesperson said: "We are aware of a number of incidents of wildlife catapulting in Selsey.

"When a report is received, all reasonable lines of enquiry are pursued to identify any criminality and bring any perpetrators of crime to justice."

The force said it was also engaging with local charities and communities to raise awareness.

Russ Middleton, head of intelligence for charity League Against Cruel Sports, said: "It happens for a mixture of reasons.

"Some of it is because of social media and young people who seem to want to promote their criminal activity.

"People can get these catapults without any hindrance, there's no legislation."

"We're looking to strengthen legislation on the sale, possession and use of a catapult."

A government spokesperson said: "It is illegal to harm a wild bird or protected species of wild mammal.

"Catapults should not be used for illegal purposes, whether against people, wildlife or property.

"We continue to keep all relevant legislation under review in the interest of public safety."

BTP said the investigation into the Chichester attack was ongoing and anyone with information should get in touch.

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