Gull fatally shot with air rifle

A West Sussex Wildlife Protection representative spoke of their disgust after a gull was shot dead in broad daylight in Littlehampton.
A herring gull was shot dead in LittlehamptonA herring gull was shot dead in Littlehampton
A herring gull was shot dead in Littlehampton

Sussex Police issued a statement that called for witnesses. It said: ‘Police were called just after midday on Sunday after a wounded herring gull was found in a Littlehampton garden.

‘It was taken to Brent Lodge Wildlife Hospital near Sidlesham but sadly died en route. It had a wound in its chest believed to have been caused by an air rifle pellet.’

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Wildlife officer Sergeant Thomas Carter said: “All wild birds are protected within England with the exception of a few species as game birds within the shooting seasons.

“Killing any wild bird is an offence which can result in a fine and imprisonment. Anyone found illegally shooting birds also risks having their firearms or air weapons confiscated.

“Witnesses to this incident can email [email protected] or call 101 quoting reference 676 of 12/06.”

Jaine Wild from West Sussex Wildlife Protection said: “It is disgusting that someone has deliberately targeted this bird.

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“Right now herring gulls have young in their nests and they make the most marvellous parents, with both adult birds feeding their young for a very long time.
“The young bird can stay with parents for two years – they are attached to each other emotionally.”

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