Investigation launched after three deer had their heads and legs cut off

AN investigation has been launched after three deer who had their heads and legs cut off and had their organs removed were found in Ballyforan.

The shocking incident occurred at Derrycahill, Ballyforan, Roscommon, in the early hours of Sunday.

Athlone Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) was alerted to the suspicious movements of a large white van.

An ASPCA welfare officer investigated and saw a large number of crows and magpies circling. The remains of the three deer were found up a grassy lane.

The offal of deer can contain TB and this area has badger sets and badgers are scavengers and there are fears that this could spread TB to nearby farms.

According to ASPCA, the Wildlife Rangers have been contacted to carry out further investigations as shooting and dumping wild deer is a serious offence and a serious threat to the livelihood of farmers.