More than 40 parakeets killed in south
A wildlife group reports that 43 ring-necked parakeets have been killed in a London park using catapults. Authorities are investigating the incidents, which have been linked to individuals filming attacks for social media.
Why it matters
The incident raises concerns about animal cruelty, the impact of social media on criminal behavior, and the regulation of weapons like catapults.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google James W Kelly , London and Wendy Hurrell , reporting from Orpington Rae Gelled A wildlife group has found 43 dead ring-necked parakeets in Priory Gardens Groups of youths using catapults are "lamping" and killing sleeping parakeets in a south-east London park, an animal rescue worker has warned.
Rae Gellel, director of the Greenwich Wildlife Network, said 43 ring-necked parakeets have been recovered dead from Priory Gardens in Orpington over a three-week period, including five found on Monday.
She said the birds roost together in trees at night, making them easy targets for the culprits who shine bright lights at them to stun them before shooting them with catapults.
Bromley Council said the killing of the birds "continues to be a concern" that it is assisting the police in its investigation.
Warning: This story contains images that readers may find distressing.
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