Magpie dies 'in agony' after being shot by a crossbow in Wolverhampton
A magpie has died "in agony" after a crossbow bolt was fired through its side in the Black Country.
The bird was shot in Rooker Crescent in Wolverhampton after a woman heard a "commotion" of birds outside her home.
She found the magpie – which was still alive – on the floor with the crossbow bolt in its side and called the RSPCA on Tuesday at around 7pm.
But the magpie died minutes later, prompting an investigation by the animal welfare charity to track down the culprit.
Inspector Laura Baker, who is investigating, said: "This poor bird was left to die in agony from what appears to be a small crossbow bolt which was fired through her side.
"The suffering she must have endured until she died would have been awful and I am keen to find the callous person responsible.
Danger
"Obviously I am concerned that if someone is capable of this they may target other wildlife or even pets.
"There is also a real danger that a person could have got seriously injured as this is a residential area.
"I am now appealing for anyone with information about this incident or knows anyone in the area with this type of weapon to call the RSPCA appeals line on 0300 123 8018."
All wild birds – including magpies – are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and it is an offence to kill, injure or take them without a licence.
The maximum penalty, if found guilty, is six months in prison and/or an unlimited fine. People who see an animal in distress can call the 24-hour phone line on 0300 1234 999.
Anyone who wishes to donate to the animal charity – which is still running services amid coronavirus – is asked to visit rspca.org.uk/covid
