CCTV appeal launched as RSPCA receives 'distressing footage' of seagull attack

Animal welfare officials have issued an appeal after a baby seagull was found dead following a suspected bludgeoning in a major UK city.

The RSPCA has said it is looking to speak to a man in relation to the suspected attack in Liverpool city centre during which the seagull's head was allegedly smashed against a rubbish bin and thrown inside. The organisation said in a statement that it had received "distressing" footage of the alleged incident, which it said took place outside shops in the Whitechapel area on July 1.

A spokesperson for the animal welfare charity said in a statement that the bird was retrieved by one of their staff, but sadly died after the 8.20pm incident.

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Louise Showering, an inspector for the RSPCA who is leading the investigation, said the organisation received "upsetting footage" showing what they said was a juvenile gull that was unable to fly. She added the gull was allegedly picked up from the pavement and "hit with some force" against a bin in Liverpool's centre.

She said in a statement: "We’ve received upsetting footage of a juvenile gull, who was unable to fly, allegedly being picked up from the pavement and hit with some force against a bin in Liverpool. The bird was later retrieved from inside but had sadly died."

The organisation has now launched an appeal to find a man they would like to speak to. A picture posted by the RSPCA shows the blurry profile of a man believed to be in his 60s who is described as having a heavy grey beard, wearing glasses, and a dark coat and t-shirt with distinctive logo. In the picture, he is believed to be holding a bottle in his right hand.

Ms Showering said the RSPCA is "keen to establish what happened" during the incident, as it is believed he "may have important information".

She said: "We’re very keen to establish what happened and we’d like to speak to this man as we believe he may have important information which will help with our enquiries.

"We hope this individual now comes forward or can be identified." People who believe they can assist the RSPCA have been asked to contact the organisation's inspectorate appeal line.

Those who have information regarding the incident can get in touch with the inspectorate via phone on 0300 123 8018. People who do so have been asked to quote the reference number 01566475.

The Daily Mirror has contacted Merseyside Police for comment.