Police investigation as gulls die in 'shooting'

Police are investigating the deaths of four gulls after it is believed they were shot down.

Peter Colton, 79, was walking through Sharpham Road Playing Fields next to Cheddar Reservoir on Tuesday morning when he discovered the birds, one of which was dead and three seriously injured.

Volunteers from Secret World Animal Rescue collected the surviving gulls, but had to put them down due to the severity of their injuries.

The charity's wildlife and veterinary services manager, Lauren Valentine, said: "Gulls can often be overlooked so we are really grateful this was called in so we could alleviate the suffering of these individuals."

An Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson confirmed an investigation is under way into the incident.

Like all wild birds, it is illegal to intentionally kill or injure gulls, carrying a maximum prison sentence of six months.

Mr Colton said: "It's pretty upsetting. It's horrific to see any animals suffering in that way. How can anyone do that sort of thing?

"The assumption was that the bird had been shot by an air rifle or something similar," he said, adding that another dog walker had seen a fifth dead bird in the reservoir with a severed wing.

Secret World's wildlife rescue team attended the scene and brought the birds to their site near Highbridge for assessment.

Ms Valentine said: "Euthanasia was necessary as the injuries were not compatible with successful rehabilitation outcomes."

Anyone with relevant information should contact police.

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