Wildlife crime in London park involves catapult attacks on parakeets

Wildlife rescuers have reported a wave of animal cruelty in Priory Gardens, Orpington, where groups of youths are using catapults to kill sleeping ring-necked parakeets. Rae Gellel, director of the Greenwich Wildlife Network, stated that 43 parakeets have been found dead over a three-week period.

The attackers reportedly use bright lights to stun the birds while they roost in trees at night before shooting them with catapults. Ammunition such as heavy ball bearings, nuts, and bolts has been found at the scenes, causing severe fractures and deep wounds. Gellel noted that such attacks in the park have occurred since 2020, targeting various species including squirrels, pigeons, and ducks. Some incidents have been filmed and uploaded to TikTok.

Bromley Council is currently assisting police with the investigation. The Greenwich Wildlife Network is calling for stricter regulations on the sale of catapults to minors and for law enforcement to prioritize wildlife crime. While ring-necked parakeets are considered an invasive species, Gellel emphasized that their status does not justify deliberate cruelty or the infliction of suffering.