A flock of chickens has been dumped on a village green - and some could still be on the loose.

RSPCA inspector Kirsten Ormerod said: "The caller initially reported between 20 and 30 chickens which had suddenly appeared on the village green on Wednesday last week."

She said: "They were a mixture of hens and cockerels, and the cockerels had coloured cable ties around their legs.

“We managed to catch 11 of the chickens initially, and I returned with my colleague, animal rescue officer Brian Milligan, the next day and we managed to catch another three.

“Unfortunately they all tried to fly away or run off when we attempted to round them up, so there may be some still on the loose who have managed to evade capture."

The birds are now at a rescue centre and will be cared for until they’re well enough to be re-homed.

The RSPCA is concerned that it will be inundated with abandoned animals in the coming months as people struggle to care for their pets in light of the recession and the impact of the pandemic.

The charity said it had seen a string of cockerels and hens being abandoned across the country in recent weeks.

Miss Ormerod said: “We understand that circumstances can change and people may find themselves in a difficult situation where they may no longer be able to care for their pets.

"But if you’re struggling, then we’d urge you to ask for help.

"Speak to friends or family, contact your vet, or ask a local charity if they can help.

“Please don’t abandon your animals as they could easily be injured or killed.”

If anyone spots any chickens still on the loose in Offham , they can call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999.

Escaped animals, unusual finds and news from the RSPCA can all be found here

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