THE RSPCA has appealed for information after wild birds were found in illegal traps.

The appeal came after the illegal wild bird traps were found in the back garden of an empty council house in Ffordd Llanerch, Penycae.

Inspectors found a male bullfinch in a cage, surrounded by other cages, which had been set as traps.

It is believed the bullfinch was being used to attract other wild birds, which would then become trapped and it is believed the imprisoned birds are then sold on the black market.

RSPCA inspector Tim Jones said: “It is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act to trap wild birds. The RSPCA is concerned about the suffering caused to birds taken from the wild for either illegal personal possession or for an illicit trade.We were dismayed to discover that this illegal activity is going on in Wrexham. If you choose to possess or purchase birds you must ensure that they are all legitimate, otherwise you will fall foul of the law which is there to protect birds.”

Trapped wild birds can often severely injure themselves or die of shock in their frenzied attempts to escape captivity, flying against the bars of the cage. Trapping can also devastate local bird populations and impact on migrant birds at critical stopover sites.

If caught people can face a maximum prison sentence of six months or a fine of up to £5,000 for each individual offence.

The traps were found on Thursday, May 19. Anyone with information is urged to call the RSPCA national cruelty and advice line on 0300 1234 999.