RSPCA probe as crate of dead birds found in Cotswolds town

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has begun an investigation after 25 dead pigeons were discovered by a litter bin in Chipping Norton.

They were found in West Street, just by the turning for The Green, on April 1 at 9.20am.

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RSPCA inspector Prisca Giddens, who is investigating for the animal charity, said: “The pigeons all have injuries consistent with being shot by an air gun, many have wounds from the pellets, broken wings, and blood from their mouths.

“A number have an obvious neck break, suggesting they weren’t killed instantly by the pellets, but were later killed manually.

“These birds suffered prolonged and painful deaths and  their bodies were then left in a public place in the town centre, close to a school.

A probe has been launched after the pigeons were found in Chipping Norton (Image: RSPCA)

“We’re asking anyone with information to contact me on our inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018, quoting the reference 01767079.”

The RSPCA receives nearly 1,000 calls each year about air weapons being used to target animals and has called for tighter controls on them.

Specifically, the charity is asking for stricter licensing, mandatory safety training, and better education on laws to prevent deliberate animal cruelty.

Ms Prisca added: “Cats and wildlife are the animals most susceptible to being shot simply because they are out in the open with no-one to protect them.

“Sadly, air weapon attacks are not rare and the injuries caused can be horrific and often fatal.”

A probe has been launched after the pigeons were found in Chipping Norton (Image: RSPCA)

Anyone caught using an air gun to injure an animal could face up to five years in prison and an unlimited fine.

In 2023, six cats were injured and one was killed in what was believed to have been air weapon attacks.

Following that a public meeting was held by the police in Carterton to hear about the concerns from cat and pet owners, and to gather intelligence relating to the issues around the incidents.

At the time, police community support officer Darryn Moulding described the attacks as “difficult to comprehend”.

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The officer advised: “Keep a collar on your pet, again for identification especially if your cat is found by someone else, this will help with reassuring you should it not be seen for a while.”

The RSPCA added that 2026 has seen a six year high of animals in their care, with almost half in emergency boarding because rescue centres are full.

The charity said it urgently needs to find loving homes so that it can continue to bring thousands of animals in need to safety.