RSPCA appeal after pigeon beaten with stick by teenagers in Sutton Coldfield

The charity was contacted on August 3 after the injured bird was found under a hedge in Trinity Road, Sutton Coldfield.

When RSPCA animal collection officer Cara Gibbon arrived to pick up the bird, she could see half of its back was red raw, feathers had been ripped out, he had an injury to the back of his head, was limping on one leg and was dragging himself along with one wing.

She said: “This has upset me quite a lot as this poor bird suffered completely unnecessarily because of the cruel actions of three people.

"A member of the public saw three teenage girls tormenting the pigeon with a large stick before the pigeon dragged itself away and hid under a hedge.

“It was clear when I collected the pigeon it had been whacked over the head. When I examined the pigeon I could see immediately the extent of his injuries.

"His head was flopped to the side and he was ‘ticking’, which is usually a sign of head or brain trauma.”

Sadly, the bird was so badly injured that he was euthanised to end his suffering.

Ms Gibbon added: “I am appealing for anyone who saw the incident or has any information about this to contact our appeals line on 0300 123 8018.

“It is so sad this bird suffered in the way he did, no animal should ever have to go through something like that.”