Ten dead gulls have been found in a seaside town, including one which appeared to have been shot by an air gun.

The RSPCA is investigating after the charity was alerted by concerned members of the public who work in the industrial estate on Harfrey’s Road in Great Yarmouth. 

The gulls' bodies had been put in a skip and had been found either on the ground or on top of a warehouse roof.

One of the gulls appeared to have been shot (Image: RSPCA) One of the birds, which appears to have been shot with an air gun as it had a pea-sized hole in the sternum and was covered in blood, has been taken for a post-mortem examination. 

The remaining gulls' bodies were too decomposed to establish a cause of death, but given the large numbers found dead the animal welfare charity is treating it as suspicious.

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The RSPCA was also sent a video recording of the birds on top of a warehouse fleeing when the sound of gunshots was heard. 

RSPCA animal rescue officer Tom Brodie said: “It is concerning to hear that a number of birds have been found dead.

"While we don’t know the cause of all the deaths, it is suspicious considering they were found in the same area and there was a large number of them.  

“I have made enquiries in the area but I would like to hear from anyone who may know who is responsible for this.

"Anyone with information is urged to call the RSPCA Inspector appeal line on 0300 123 8018 quoting incident 01312407.”

All wild birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and it is illegal, except under licence, to take, injure or kill wild birds.

Mr Brodie added: "We continue to call for tighter controls on air weapons.

"This, along with better education and explanation of the law when buying an air gun, and requirements that everyone must receive basic safety training before being allowed to walk out of the shop could help relieve the problem."