Appeal after duck attacked in County Durham

Salters Lane in Shotton Colliery. Image courtesy of Google.

Inspectors are looking for witnesses after the bird was attacked in Salters Lane, Shotton Colliery, just before 8pm on Sunday.

RSPCA inspector Steph Baines said: “A witness heard what sounded like gunshots then saw a man chase a duck into a garden where he hit the duck over the head a couple of times before walking off laughing.

The duck was attacked in Shotton Colliery

“The witness went to the duck, which he found collapsed. A ball bearing (BB) gun was nearby. He went inside to ring the RSPCA and when he came back out the duck had sadly died and the gun was gone.”

The man is described as in his late 20s, of a slim build, around 6ft tall, light skinned, with short dark hair which was slightly receding and wearing a black jacket.

“Anyone who thinks they can help should call the RSPCA’s inspector appeal line 0300 123 8018 and ask to leave a message for me,” said RSPCA inspector Baines.

The RSPCA relies on public donations to exist. To assist Inspectors in carrying out their work text HELP to 78866 to give £3 (Texts cost £3 + one standard network rate message).