Two Pigeons Suffer Shocking Injuries on Same Charlton Street
Two pigeons with bizarrely similar injuries were found just days apart on Victoria Way in Charlton. Both bore clean, unnatural wounds, stoking fears someone is deliberately harming birds using a catapult or similar weapon.
Wildlife Experts Point to Catapult Attacks
Greenwich Wildlife Network discovered the first injured pigeon last week near Harold Gibbons Court. It had a clean cut through a wing and a circular puncture on its flank. The second, admitted to a vet on Wednesday, showed nearly identical wounds and a suspected broken bone.
“We initially thought it was an air gun, but the x-ray showed no pellets,” said Rae Gellel from the Wildlife Network. “We now suspect a catapult or similar projectile. These injuries are highly unlikely to be natural.”
Both birds were found near flats where bird feeders attract local wildlife, making them vulnerable targets.
If you have any details, contact police with crime reference 01/7353809/25.
Catapult Attacks Surge Across South East London and Kent
Charlton isn’t the only hotspot. Reports of catapult-related injuries have skyrocketed across south east London and north Kent, with the Greenwich Wildlife Network handling nearly daily cases.
“It’s rare for us to go a week without a report of an animal being hurt or killed by a catapult,” Gellel said. “The attacks have exploded.”
Famous trouble zones include Priory Gardens (Orpington), Danson Park (Bexleyheath), Southmere Lake (Thamesmead), and Brooklands Lake (Dartford). Victims range from swans and foxes to squirrels, geese, and even family pets.
Youth Behind the Violence, Say Experts
Most attackers are boys aged 12 to 18, firing bolts, ball bearings, or stones at close range. Girls sometimes lure animals out with food so the boys can strike.
“There’s zero empathy. It’s terrifying,” Gellel said. “Many animals suffer for days or die instantly – like a duck shot in the head last year, leaving helpless offspring.”
The Law’s Weak Response Sparks Outrage
Despite protections under the Animal Welfare Act and Wildlife and Countryside Act, arrests are rare, and punishments light.
“We’ve made plenty of police reports. Usually, crooks just get warned and are back in the parks the next day,” Gellel lamented. “But recent arrests in Orpington give us hope.”
Campaigners Demand Tougher Catapult Laws
Greenwich Wildlife Network supports a petition to clamp down on the public carrying and sale of catapults, similar to knife laws. The campaign has racked up over 18,000 signatures.
“People think animal cruelty isn’t tolerated here. But seeing what’s happening to wildlife in local parks sparks real outrage,” Gellel said.
If you witness suspicious activity, report it to police immediately.
