Appeal For Information Following Mutilated Body of Dead Badger Found in Rugby

Warwickshire Police are appealing for information after a badger carcass was found near Rugby, hanging from a tree, with evidence of dogs having attacked the body before further mutilation of the remains.

On Tuesday, 19th January 2021, officers from the Rural Crime Team of Warwickshire Police attended a location on a disused railway line near Rugby in Warwickshire. The remains of a badger were found that had been hung in a tree and then mutilated. The remains were found strewn across the ground, it also appeared that dogs had ripped at the remains. It is not known at what stage the badger died.

Craig Fellowes, Badger Trust Crime Officer commented:

‘This incident just shows the levels of persecution that badgers face. Sadly, nothing surprises me when dealing with wildlife crime, but the images recorded by Warwickshire Police are so shocking they’re not suitable to share.

We are working in partnership with the police, in conjunction with the local badger group on the ground, Warwickshire Badger Group, and appeal for any information that could lead to potential suspects being identified. The public play a huge part in identifying and reporting wildlife crime, and here we really do need help to help catch those responsible for the abuse of this animal.’

Anyone with information on this incident should contact Warwickshire Police, quoting Incident number 148 of 19th Jan 2021, alternatively you can advise us online at www.warwickshire.police.uk.  Information can also be given anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

thank you for your assistance with this incident.