A Jackdaw has died after suffering 'horrendous' injuries when it was caught in an illegal snare in Airdrie.
The animal, which was still alive when it was discovered by a member of the public near Moffat View in the North Lanarkshire town on May 18. SSPCA officers were called to the incident but the animal had to be put to sleep.
Shocking images show the bird cruelly trapped in the man-made snare, which SSPCA officers are treating as a deliberate attempt to attract wild birds. Results from a post-mortem have found that the Jackdaw would have endured great suffering and pain prior to its death as the trap had partially amputated its left leg.
The animal welfare charity has launched an investigation into the cruel act and has urged anybody with information to come forward.
A Scottish SPCA special investigations unit inspector, who cannot be named due to undercover operations, said: “Sadly, the Jackdaw caught in the trap had sustained such horrendous injuries that they had to be put to sleep to end their suffering. The bird was caught in the trap by their left leg.
"A post-mortem showed the leg had a severe open fracture and was partially amputated causing severe pain and suffering. The springer trap was illegally set and had deer legs scattered around it as bait, in what appears to be a deliberate attempt to attract wild birds.
"We are appealing to the local community to pass on any information relating to a person, or persons, illegally killing birds, particularly birds of prey. These traps are unlawful and indiscriminate and will cause unnecessary suffering to any bird or animal caught in them.
"If anyone knows who this device might belong to then we would urge them to phone our animal helpline immediately on 03000 999 999. All calls can be treated confidentially.
"Equally, if anyone spots an illegal trap such as this, or a trap or snare they suspect is illegal, please don’t hesitate to contact us.”
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