An investigation is underway after a badger was poisoned in Bembridge on the Isle of Wight at the weekend.

The badger was picked up on Sunday by Friends of the Animals, and despite the best efforts of Carisbrooke Vets, there was no hope in saving it, said Graham Lee for the Isle of Wight Badger Trust.

Graham revealed it is not the first time a suspected poisoning has happened in the area around Howgate Road and Egerton Road, where the badger was picked up from.

The incident has been reported to the police, as a wildlife crime, and also to the Wildlife Incident Investigation Team (WIIS) at Natural England.

“We all initially suspected poisoning,” said Graham.

“WIIS have arranged collection of the badger from the vets and will be doing further tests on it.

"It is most definitely a type of rat poison/rodenticide.

“Whether this poisoning was intentional or not, badgers are a protected species.

“For someone to be using poison in a built-up area where both wildlife and pets live and roam is extremely concerning.

“Poisoning any type of animal causes them tremendous pain.

“It is cruel and barbaric and should not be allowed in the 21st century.

“If anyone has any information about this poisoning then please contact Badger Trust IW in confidence either through our website or our Facebook page.”