An appeal has been launched after the charred body of a badger was found dressed in a baby grow in a heart-shaped fire.
The remains of the animal were dumped on a path in Wolverhampton, West Midlands.
A passerby made the grim discovery at 6.30am on February 3 near the Beacon Centre in the city.
The badger was found dead alongside a sett, which had been deliberately set on fire.
The RSPCA said the badger had been dressed in a baby grow and a bizarre heart-shape had been burned around the body.
Inspector Laura Brewerton said: “We’re eager to find out more information about this disturbing incident.
“Someone had deliberately lit a fire at the entrance to badgers’ sett.
“It’s extremely disturbing that anyone would behave this way, and concerning to see the way someone had interfered with the badger’s body after death.
“The badger had been dressed in a baby grow with a lighter, cigarette filters, and lighter fluid bottle left alongside his body at the roadside.
"Whoever did this had also intentionally burned the shape of a heart near the badger with lighter fluid."
She added: “Badgers and their setts are protected under the Protection of Badgers Act.
“In England and Wales, it is an offence to intentionally kill, injure or take a badger, or attempt to, except under licence.
“We’d like to hear from anyone who has any information who thinks they may be able to help our investigation should call us.
"Our inspectorate appeal line can be reached on 0300 123 8018, and calls are treated in confidence.”
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