Pigeon hung on tree with legs tied together by men with dog
A pigeon has been rescued after being found tied to a tree branch with its legs tied together with a cable tie.
The bird, which has since been released back into the wild after being treated by vet, was helped down by one of the RSPCA's animal rescuers in Walmley Ash Lane, Sutton Coldfield.
Eye-witnesses reported their concerns to the animal welfare charity on after they saw two men tie something to the tree before encouraging their dog to jump up to try and catch it at on April 8.
They then found the bird flapping its wings in distress after being tied to the tree and left hanging by the legs.
The RSPCA is now appealing for information related to the incident.
RSPCA Inspector Nichola Geraghty, who is investigating for the charity, said: "This is shocking and callous cruelty towards a defenceless bird.
"It’s heartbreaking to think anyone could deliberately treat an animal this way.
"The pigeon was then left tied to the tree in a remote area where the bird would have died either by predators or starvation or thirst whilst the people involved left the location.
"Myself and the two members of public who reported the incident managed to rescue the pigeon and thankfully other than a swollen leg the bird was deemed to be unharmed by a vet.
"The members of the public who witnessed this event also believe that the same people were shooting pigeons at the same location the previous week and reported it to the police.
"The two men were with a black land cruiser style vehicle which had a woman sitting inside.
"We’re really keen to hear from anyone who has any information on who did this to the pigeon and urge anyone who has any information to contact us on our Inspectorate Appeal Line 0300 123 8018."
