Antlers – especially from a stag – can be sought-after trophies Police investigating a spate of deer deaths believe the animals’ antlers may have been removed as “sickening” trophies.
A deer was discovered with its antlers missing, and another severed head was discovered in woods near Abergele Hospital, Conwy.
The North Wales Police helicopter is being used to help in the search for poachers.
Sgt Rob Taylor said patrols in the area would be increased.
Sgt Taylor, the force’s wildlife and environment officer, said: “There is a deer poaching problem at Kinmel Woods near Bodelwyddan and also the back of Abergele woods.
“A few weeks ago we had a deer killed and the whole carcass left, minus the antlers, which is very strange.
“And just last week a deer head was found, again minus the antlers near Abergele Hospital woods.
“This is a sickening crime.
“It could be that the antlers are being kept as trophies.”
The force helicopter crew has been asked to assist in the search for poachers.
Sgt Taylor added: “When they are returning from other important tasks they will be using their latest thermal imaging equipment to quickly scan the area to search for poachers.”
He said the force was taking the crimes extremely seriously.
This article is from the BBC News website. © British Broadcasting Corporation, The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites.