Badger trapped in illegal snare in Holywell Green

A badger was trapped in an illegal snare in Holywell Green.

Now police in Calderdale are hunting those responsible for the cruel act.

Wildlife officers are investigating the illegal snaring of the badger on land off Old Lindley Road, Holywell Green, on Monday.

The badger was caught in a self-locking snare, but was recovered by officers alive and has since received veterinary treatment and been released back into the wild.

Snaring badgers is illegal but there are some snare devices that are deemed as lawful and must follow strict guidelines. The snare must be ‘free running’ and should not self-tighten or asphyxiate the animal.

Snares must be checked at least once a day and must not be on land where the public have access.

Police are now appealing for anyone who can help trace those responsible and urged witnesses to contact Special Constable Phil Sanderson at Todmorden Police Station on the non-emergency number 101.