Yet another seagull in Rhyl has been sighted with a crossbow bolt through its body.

RSPCA Cymru and North Wales Police are appealing for information after they were alerted to a photograph of a gull East Parade Rhyl still alive despite having a bolt through its chest.

In addition, there are concerns two further gulls in the Towyn area remain in the wild having been attacked with crossbows.

RSPCA inspector Jenny Anderton said: "In recent weeks, we have dealt with an alarming number of calls in coastal areas of North East Wales related to suspected gull attacks.

"It's deeply worrying to think someone is deliberately setting out to persecute gulls in this way.

"This latest incident was brought to the attention of the RSPCA and North Wales Police after a gull was sighted with an arrow through its body. We understand the gull is still alive in the wild - but will clearly be experiencing significant suffering.

The bird is thought to still be alive and in the wild, but likely to be “experiencing significant suffering” as a result of the shooting.

The sighting follows a number of incidences reported of late in North East Wales coastal areas related to gulls believed to have been shot. The Journal has reported repeatedly throughout July of similar attacks.

The RSPCA recently launched an urgent search for witnesses after three air gun attacks against gulls on the same Prestatyn street.

This followed a separate appeal, after a gull was found in Rhyl on July 6 after being shot with an air rifle; while at the end of June, the RSPCA and North Wales Police responded to fears that suspected air gun shootings in the vicinity of Victoria Avenue in Prestatyn cost the lives of three gulls.

Rob Taylor, from the North Wales Rural Crime Team, added: "We are aware of a number of incidents involving the illegal killing of gulls on the North Wales coast. These birds are protected by UK law and we remind people that the using of such weapons and the killing of these birds is taken extremely seriously. We are appealing to the public for any information that may assist us in apprehending those responsible for these callous acts."

Ms Anderton added: “Anyone with any information about this, or any other gull-related incidences of late, is urged to contact our inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018. The Police can also be contacted on 101, and quote reference W106596."

For more information on what to do if you find an injured wild animal, visit the RSPCA website.