PETA Offers Gbp 1,000 Reward For Capture Of Seal Killer

Contact:
Martin Mallon 020 7357 9229, ext 224; [email protected]

Scotland – An investigation has been launched after six dead seals, including two females pregnant with pups, were found washed up on the shore of a Shetlands beach. At least three of the seals are believed to have been shot. Animal protection charity PETA is offering £1,000 as a reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for this horrific crime.

Common seals, also known as harbour seals, are a protected species, and it is illegal to kill them at any time of year in Orkney and Shetland. The term “common seal” is misleading, as the species has seen a rapid decline in number across many areas of the UK. June is the time of year when the seals are actively breeding and having pups. Local authorities now fear that more dead seals might be found in the coming days.

PETA is urging local residents to keep a watchful eye for anything suspicious in the area. Because animals cannot report their own abuse and can do little to fight back, they are the perfect “practice” victims for people who tend towards violence.

Research in psychology and criminology shows that people who commit acts of cruelty to animals often go on to commit violent acts against their fellow humans. As long as the perpetrators of this crime are at large, other animals in the Shetlands – and even human residents – might be in danger.

“Animal abusers are cowards”, says PETA spokesperson Suzanne Barnard. “They take their issues out on the most defenceless beings available to them.”

Anyone with information about this case is encouraged to call the Animal Helpline of the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals on 03000 999 999, the Shetland Wildlife Rescue Unit on 01595 840 321 or the local police on 01595 692 110. All information provided will be treated in the strictest confidence.

For more information about PETA, please visit PETA.org.uk.