THE RSPCA is appealing for information after six seagulls were shot by yobs using an air rifle.
The animal charity said its inspectors were called to Northgate, in Hartlepool, on Friday last week, following complaints from residents.
They found two dead seagulls and a further four birds which were alive but seriously injured, and had to be out down.
RSPCA inspector Sue Craig said: "This is a shocking case in which a number of wild birds appear to have been deliberately targeted and made to suffer.
"If anyone saw, heard or knows anything about this incident we are keen to hear from them urgently."
Anyone with information is asked to call the RSPCA's cruelty and advice line, on 0870-5555-999.
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