Animal ‘killed’ by catapult and dogs in Oxford incident

Thames Valley Police has launched an investigation after a pigeon was killed in a wildlife crime incident in Plover Drive, Oxford, at around 6.50pm on August 24.

The force said that two teenage boys used a catapult to knock a pigeon from a tree before the bird was attacked by three smaller terrier-type dogs that were with them.

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Descriptions of the two boys have been released with the first described as wearing a black sleeveless vest, dark-coloured bottoms, black trainers with white soles.

A photo of a catapult/slingshot (Image: NQ)

In addition he had a black-and-white flat-peaked cap worn backwards and was believed to have been carrying a catapult.

The second was reportedly wearing a light-coloured T-shirt and blue jeans, with brown, medium-length hair.

He was also seen carrying an unidentified item.

Plover Drive, Oxford (Image: Google Maps)

A spokesperson for the police said: “We are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed this incident or who may recognise those involved from the descriptions above.

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“We would also like to hear from anyone with dashcam footage from the Plover Drive area between 6.30pm and 7pm on 24 August that may assist our investigation.

“Wildlife crime has a real impact on our communities, and we take reports of offences against wild animals and birds seriously.

” If you have any information, please contact the force on 101 or report online, quoting reference 43260448136.”