The RSPCA has launched an investigation after two ducklings were tied up in bags and ‘callously’ dumped in a wheelie bin in Bolton.
A shocked woman came across the ducklings after she went to retrieve her wheelie bin which had just been emptied by refuse collectors in Moorfield Grove, Bolton.
She could hear some noises coming from inside so went to investigate and came across two blue carrier bags which were moving.
The woman opened the plastic carrier bags to find a duckling in each of them.
She alerted the RSPCA and inspector Catherine Byrnes was sent to the scene.
Animal rescuer Catherine took the birds to the RSPCA’s Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre, near Nantwich, in Cheshire, where they will stay until they are ready to be rehomed.
Catherine is now appealing for anyone with information about the abandonment to contact the animal welfare charities appeal line.
Catherine said: "These poor ducklings were really lucky to be found when they were, as they were obviously in danger of suffocating.
"They were found in a carrier bag each and there was some sawdust inside, so have clearly been abandoned as unwanted pets.
"It's so important people know it is never okay to abandon an animal - and to callously dump them in a bin to suffer a lingering death is just terrible.
"These were domestic ducks, not wild birds. If people are struggling to care for an animal, there is so much they can do to look for help - but abandonments are never the answer. Treating an animal like that can also constitute an offence under the Animal Welfare Act.
"Anyone with information about who is responsible for dumping the ducklings on Monday July 20 at around 6.30am should contact the appeal line on 0300 123 8018."
The charity has also urged the public never to abandon animals, and to always seek help, support or advice if they are struggling to provide care.
Dumping ducklings like this could constitute an offence under the Animal Welfare Act.
To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care you can visit their website at rspca.org.uk or call their donation line on 0300 123 8181.
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