Badger shot and euthanized near Upper Bittell Reservoir

The RSPCA is asking for help after a dying badger was found with a gunshot wound to its head. The incident happened near Upper Bittell Reservoir in Barnt Green around 10:00 GMT on Thursday. A member of the public discovered the badger, which was in very bad shape. RSPCA Inspector Graeme Brookes stated that when he arrived, the animal was alive but severely injured and unable to respond. Sadly, the injuries were so serious that the badger had to be put down to end its suffering. The RSPCA has reported a concerning rise in animal shootings, with a 23% increase in 2023 compared to the previous year. They noted that the total number of animals shot went from 300 in 2022 to 370 in 2023. Inspector Brookes expressed deep concern about the badger's injury, emphasizing that wildlife deserves respect. Badgers are protected under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992, making it illegal to kill or injure them. While some culling occurs in specific areas, the RSPCA pointed out that the location where this badger was found is not part of a cull zone. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to call the RSPCA at 0300 123 8018 and provide reference number 01468053.