The RSPCA has issued a warning after a bird was tragically shot dead earlier this week in what has been described as a "senseless act".

The injured bird, a jackdaw, was found in the front garden of a home on Arundel Drive in Darlington on May 26 and had suffered a severe wound after being shot twice by an air rifle.

Vets were unable to treat the bird’s injuries with one of the pellets having shattered the pelvis bone and the other becoming lodged in another bone - and so it was sadly put to sleep.

The Northern Echo: Bullets found in the bird.Bullets found in the bird. (Image: RSPCA)

Durham Constabulary has been informed of the incident and is investigating as it is an offence to use an air rifle in a built-up area.

Now, the charity has warned of the "devastating" impact weapons being used on wildlife can have, as in 2022 they received nearly 150 reports of domestic and wild animals being targeted with air weapons

RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer (ARO) Krissy Raine, who is appealing for information, said: "This poor jackdaw was found in a horrendous state after being shot.

The Northern Echo: Bullets found in the bird.Bullets found in the bird. (Image: RSPCA)

"The bird was rushed to Stanhope Park Veterinary Hospital by the member of the public who found the bird, but sadly the jackdaw was too badly wounded to make a recovery.

"The consequences of weapons being used on wildlife is devastating, with severe injuries often leading to death, as in this case.

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The Northern Echo: Stock image of a jackdaw bird.Stock image of a jackdaw bird. (Image: PA)

"Over the past year residents in this area of Darlington have reported numerous birds and cats have been shot with air rifles. Some have been killed and others have been seriously injured.

"People are understandably concerned and fear that their pets or even children could be hurt. We are appealing for anyone with any information to get in touch by calling the RSPCA appeals line number on 0800 123 8018."