Hares found in bags after being shot near Loch Ardinning sparks investigation by charity

WARNING: Graphic image

An investigation is under way after the remains of five hares were found in bags after being shot and retrieved by dogs.

The Scottish SPCA were alerted to the remains which were found by a member of the public in two bags in a burn on Strathblane Road, near Loch Ardinning on September 5.

Initially it was thought that the remains belonged to a deer but after the animal charity further investigated, it emerged to be five hares, of which one was pregnant.

Following a post mortem examination it was determined that the hares had been shot and retrieved by dogs.

The charity is now appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to come forward.

Scottish SPCA inspector Mairi Wright, said, “The remains were found in the burn next to the layby across from the sign for the Loch Ardinning walk.

“The member of the public initially thought the remains belonged to deer but on further examination we discovered the bags actually contained five hares. One of the hares was pregnant.

“The bodies of the animals were sent for post mortem, which determined the hares had been shot and retrieved by dogs.

“This is a horrendous incident which will have caused a great deal of fear and suffering to the hares.

“If anyone has any information about this incident, we would ask that they contact our confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”

Constable Laura Robertson, wildlife crime liaison officer for Forth Valley Division, said: “We are aware of the incident and regularly work closely with Scottish SPCA inspectors.

“We will continue to support the Scottish SPCA with this incident.”