Goslings orphaned in cruel attacks taken under the wings of other geese

The goslings – which had been left without parents following a spate of cruel attacks – are doing well, and have been adopted by other Canada geese on the water (file photo)

Goslings which were orphaned on the Rochdale canal last month have been adopted by other geese.

The Rochdale & District RSPCA recently confirmed that the goslings – which had been left without parents following a spate of cruel attacks – are doing well, and have been adopted by other Canada geese on the water.

In early June, three of the geese had been shot and left in the water near Fishwick Street whilst local residents also reported seeing young men leaving the canal with the bodies of Canada geese in carrier bags.

Whilst no additional reports have been received, the public is being urged to report such matters for investigation.

A spokesperson for the national RSPCA said: “We are aware of alleged shootings in this area and we are investigating.

“We were called to help a goose which appeared to have been shot. Sadly the injured bird flew off before we were able to help her. There were two bodies of other geese floating in the canal near the injured bird. 

“It is awful that birds appeared to have been callously shot in what can only be described as cowardly attacks. 

“We would urge anyone with any information as to who may be responsible to contact the RSPCA appeals line on 0300 123 8018.”