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Probe over mystery animal deaths near country lane

Disturbing video shows a mouse spinning around on the spot shortly before dying.

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Some of the animals

The RSPCA is investigating after animals were found dead but with no visible injuries near a country lane.

A number of animals - including three goslings, a fox and a mouse - were found dead by members of the public but with no visible injuries close to Knox Grave Lane in Lichfield.

In one video taken at the scene a mouse can be seen spinning around, seemingly out of control, shortly before dying.

Concerns have now been raised these animals may have been poisoned.

RSPCA inspector Elizabeth Boyd said: “It’s really upsetting for locals to discover dead animals.

"One member of the public described to me how he found the mouse gravely ill and spinning wildly and out of control before it sadly died.

“At this stage it would be very difficult to say what caused the death of these animals, but it is unusual for them to be found in the same area with no obvious cause of death.

"I’m asking that anyone with any information please contact the RSPCA, in complete confidence, by calling our inspector’s appeal line number on 0300 123 8018, where they can leave a message for me.

“We all have a duty to care for and protect the wildlife around us, so it would be extremely sad if it was the case that these animals had been deliberately harmed, especially as wild animals are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.”

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