The RSPCA has launched an investigation after a pigeon was cruelly attacked at a Gateshead bus stop by a group of youths.
The young bird's injuries were so severe, it had to be put to sleep to end its suffering.
A witness claims they spotted a pigeon being kicked by a group of young people at Gateshead Interchange in West Street at around 8pm on Sunday, Chronicle Live reports.
RSPCA Inspector Catherine Maddison is now investigating and appealing for any other witnesses to come forward.
She said: "The pigeon was young and underweight with missing toes which I suspect is why he perhaps couldn't get away from the attack.
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"The witness said they saw a group of teenagers kicking the bird in the outdoor area of bus stand L.
"Unfortunately, we don't have a description of what they look like so we are appealing for information from anyone who may have also witnessed this incident.
"The poor bird suffered a broken right wing, his left eye was swollen and couldn't fully open and the bird had damage to the left side of his beak which left the beak hanging open.
"The pigeon was missing feathers and had a skinned area on his back.
"This bird's injuries were absolutely awful and to think that someone has done this deliberately is just horrible.
"This was a cruel and callous act against a defenceless animal.
"If anyone has any further information, please contact the RSPCA's inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018."
Last month a pigeon was killed in Sutton Coldfield by three schoolgirls who were seen pulling the poor bird apart.
The RSPCA rescued the bird and tried to save its life, but its injuries were too severe and it died.
In a third horrific incident, a seagull was left bloodied and later died after being beaten by two boys armed with a cricket bat in a park in August.
It's believed the bird may have been "drunk on flying ants" at the time of its attack, making it an easy target in Brighton, south-east England.
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