A THUG seen violently attacking a wild goose is being hunted by the RSPCA.

The man was spotted kicking the frightened bird outside the Lowther pub on the King’s Staith by the River Ouse in York.

The attack took place just after midnight on Saturday, August 15, and the bird is believed to have suffered an injury to its leg.

And by the time an RSPCSA inspector arrived at the scene the bird and the man had disappeared.

Witnesses described the man as being in his early 20s, just under six-foot tall with dark hair, and wearing a blue shirt. He was with a group of about five or six other men, also described as being in their early twenties.

RSPCA inspector Claire Mitchell said: “We are very concerned to hear these reports about a wild bird being senselessly attacked in this way.

“Unfortunately we have not been able to find the bird, so cannot be sure about what may have happened here, but would urge anyone with any information to call us, in strictest confidence.”

She added: “Cruel behaviour like what is described here is totally unacceptable, and we are concerned there might be further reports of similar incidents. We are also asking members of the public to be on the lookout for any such incidents.

“It is important for people to understand that it is illegal to attack wildlife in this way and could result in a fine and a prison sentence of up to six months.”

Anyone with information relating to the incident, or who knows the individual involved, is asked to contact the RSPCA 24-hour cruelty line on 0300-1234-999.