The Scottish SPCA has appealed for information after a crow was found caught in an illegal trap in Easthouses Park in Midlothian on 25 April.
The bird was found in the old fashioned trap by a local resident who was able to save its life and remove the clamp from around its leg.
The trap was found in the park near Dalkeith and is illegal in the UK, designed usually to catch larger birds of prey.
Scottish SPCA special investigations unit chief inspector, who cannot be named due to undercover operations, said: “The crow flew off but undoubtedly would have sustained serious injury and is likely to have suffered a slow and painful death.
“The pole trap is usually designed to catch birds of prey and is illegal to use and possess for use in the UK.
“They are primitive, barbaric traps that have no place in modern society. These devices were manufactured at a time when attitudes towards animal welfare were very different.
“We are appealing to the local community to pass on any information relating to a person, or persons, illegally killing birds, particularly birds of prey.
“These traps are unlawful and indiscriminate and will cause unnecessary suffering to any bird or animal caught in them.
“If anyone knows who this device might belong to then we would urge them to phone our animal helpline immediately on 03000 999 999. All calls can be treated confidentially.
“Equally, if anyone spots an illegal trap such as this, or a trap or snare they suspect is illegal, please don’t hesitate to contact us.”
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