An otter has died after suffering internal injuries as a result of becoming trapped in a snare in the Leicestershire village of Little Bowden.
The female animal was discovered in the trap in Scotland Road, Little Bowden, near Market Harborough, on January 19.
It was released by a member of the public and taken to a vet but sadly had to be put down, revealed the RSPCA.
The charity said it was illegal to set snares for otters, which are a protected species, and appealed for information in order to catch those responsible.
RSPCA inspector Beckie Harlock said the otter’s internal organs were badly damaged when the snare cut into its abdomen.
“Sadly the injury sustained by the otter would have been over a long period of time and she would have suffered considerably.
“Unfortunately, due to the severity of her injuries, vets decided the kindest thing was to put her to sleep to prevent her suffering further.”
Anyone with information should call the RSPCA inspector appeal line on 0300 123 8018 quoting incident 01211432.
