'It is unspeakably cruel and totally unacceptable to shoot animals for fun'

NEW RSPCA DATA REVEALS STAFFORDSHIRE IS AMONG THE COUNTIES WITH THE HIGHEST NUMBER OF WEAPON ATTACKS ON ANIMALS BETWEEN 2022 AND 2024

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WEAPON attacks against animals are among the highest in Staffordshire, according to new figures from the RSPCA.

The animal charity revealed that the county generated amongst the highest number of incidents relating to animals attacked by air guns, catapults or crossbows, with 14 reports received between 2022 and 2024.

Counties with the highest number of incidents over that three year period include Kent (32), Greater London (31), Durham (20), Essex (18), Cheshire, Hampshire, Nottinghamshire and West Midlands (16 each), plus Greater Manchester, Somerset and West Yorkshire (15 each).

The charity's new data reveals that between 2022 and 2024, there were 497 incidents reported involving air guns, catapults and crossbows used to target all types of animals.

With the RSPCA receiving more reports of cruelty in summer than at any other time of year, the charity has released the figures as part of its 'Summer Cruelty Appeal'.