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RSPCA inspectors are appealing for information after a tawny owl was shot and killed at an animal sanctuary in Blaenau Gwent.

The incident happened at Festival Park Owl Sanctuary, Ebbw Vale, on Sunday at about 09:00 GMT.

The sanctuary owner heard shots fired and went to investigate, finding the owl dead in its aviary.

In a separate incident, the RSPCA say a family's pet cat was also shot dead in Connor Crescent, Wrexham, last Friday.

In both incidents it is believed the animals were shot with a pellet gun or air weapon.

Anyone with information is asked to call the RSPCA cruelty and information line on 0300 1234 999.

RSPCA inspector Tim Jones said: "Cruel air weapon shootings of pets are becoming increasingly common and this is a very serious problem which causes a great deal of suffering to the animals involved and much distress to their owners."