Plea for information after foxes killed violently

AN ANIMAL welfare charity has appealed for information after the discovery of two foxes which suffered violent deaths.

The Scottish SPCA said that Fox-hunting is an abhorrent and illegal activity. Picture: PA

The animals were found dead at Malls Mire Community Nature Reserve in Rutherglen, South Lanarkshire, last month.

One fox was said to have suffered from trauma, possibly indicating it had been killed by a spade or similar item, the Scottish SPCA said.

The other died from asphyxiation, suggesting it was either hung up by those hunting it or caught in a fence while trying to escape.

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The charity was contacted after a ranger discovered the animals on January 13.

Scottish SPCA chief superintendent Mike Flynn said: “Two men were witnessed going on to the reserve with dogs and shovels.

“Unfortunately we have no description of the men but the dogs are described as terrier types.

“The dogs may be used to trap the foxes underground before those involved dig them out or trap them in nets and bludgeon them to death.

“Fox-hunting is an abhorrent and illegal activity which causes the foxes horrific pain and suffering and a great deal of distress.

“Unfortunately our inquiries so far have not resulted in any leads so we are appealing to the public for their assistance.”