Toby Carvery diners' shock as nesting goose kicked in head
Shocked witnesses reported a yob to the RSPCA after a nesting goose was kicked in the head in Stoke-on-Trent. The senseless attack on the bird happened outside the Toby Carvery on Festival Park which was busy with diners.
RSPCA officer Sophie Taylor, who was sent to the scene in Marina Way, said luckily the Canada goose showed no signs of injury.
Now the animal charity is trying to trace the person behind the attack, which happened at around 3.15pm on Sunday, April 14. Staffordshire Police have also been informed of the incident which is thought to have been witnessed by those eating inside the restaurant.
READ: Police swarm Stoke as 'knifeman' arrested and man attacked Staffordshire Police and West Midlands Ambulance Service were called to London Road, in Stoke
READ: Stoke-on-Trent crash leaves cars looking like this Staffordshire Police, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service and West Midlands Ambulance Service were called to the collision on Lightwood Road, in Lightwood
“The goose is fortunately okay and is still nesting on her eggs,” said Sophie. “But this would have been really shocking to witness, and we are really thankful to those who called us about this.
“We would urge people to show kindness and respect towards all animals. This goose - who is nesting - would have felt very vulnerable.
“All wild birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and it is illegal to deliberately kill, injure or take one, except under licence.
“The location of where it happened is very public - and may have been seen by those in a nearby restaurant.”
Anyone with first-hand information which would help with the RSPCA's enquiries should call the appeals line on 0300 123 8018.