Badger was hung from a tree and mutilated in shocking act of cruelty in Rugby

Police are investigating a shocking act of cruelty against a badger on a disused railway line in Rugby.

On Tuesday, January 19, officers from Warwickshire Rural Crime Team found the remains of a badger which had been hung from a tree and then mutilated.

The remains were found strewn across the ground, and officers believe that dogs had ripped at the animal.

Police said it was not known at what stage of the ordeal the poor animal died.

Badger Trust crime officer Craig Fellowes said: "This incident just shows the levels of persecution that badgers face.

"Sadly, nothing surprises me when dealing with wildlife crime, but the images recorded by Warwickshire Police are so shocking they’re not suitable to share.

"We are working in partnership with the police, in conjunction with the local badger group on the ground, Warwickshire Badger Group, and appeal for any information that could lead to potential suspects being identified.

"The public play a huge part in identifying and reporting wildlife crime, and here we really do need help to help catch those responsible for the abuse of this animal."

Anyone with information is urged to contact Warwickshire Police on 101, quoting Incident number 148 of 19th Jan 2021.

You can also give information online at www.warwickshire.police.uk.

Information can also be given anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.