Attack on Boston Central Park aviary which saw birds stolen and killed a 'mindless and heartless' act

Park staff discovered the distressing scene of the damaged aviary with around 30 birds missing when they turned up for work this morning.

An urgent appeal is being made to anyone offered caged birds for sale to contact the police if they are at all suspicious.

The 30 or so missing birds - some of which had been donated by residents - included budgerigars, parakeets, cockatiels and love birds worth in excess of £600.

A number of others are reported to have died from exhaustion and distress after being chased and avoiding capture

A spokesman for Boston Borough Council said the aviary had been broken into some time overnight.

"The crime has been reported to the police," the spokesman said.

"Parks staff have secured the door and will look into what other measures can be taken to protect the aviary.

"Other vandalism has occurred and it looks as though nearby trellis work was smashed down and a wooden post from that used as a battering ram to break into the wooden service door."

Cllr Claire Rylott, portfolio holder for parks and open spaces, said: “This is such a mindless, determined, deliberate and heartless act. The aviary is a lovely feature in Central Park, especially popular with families and children.

"The very fact that the aviary provides opportunity for anyone to view the birds makes it an easy target and very difficult to protect.

"The park is similarly difficult to protect from those who are determined and who will get in at any time. We continue to improve facilities in the park for all to enjoy and it is just so sad that anyone would want to spoil anything in a public park.”

Boston Borough Council wants to hear from anyone with information about this, or who is offered cage birds for sale. Contact the police on 101 quoting the crime number 51 of 1/11/2018

CCTV footage is being reviewed in a bid to try to track down those responsible.