Warning after deadly badger snares found on Shropshire border

The snares, which are illegal, were found at Dolgoch Quarry, near Llynclys, and can prove fatal to other animals including dogs.

Stuart Edmunds, spokesman for Shropshire Wildlife Trust, said: "A member of the public last week found badger snares set up around badger setts at Dolgoch Quarry, near Llynclys.

"It is illegal to use to snares – which are designed to wrap around a badger's throat and pull tight as the animal struggles – to kill badgers, but most worryingly was the fact that these snares were found on a nature reserve which is there to provide a refuge for wildlife without risk.

"Another massive issue with the use of snares like this is the danger they pose to dogs," he continued.

"Although the snares are set around the entrance to badger setts, when being walked dogs are likely to come into contact with the snares when they venture towards setts.

"The snares found were made of a variety of materials, from electric fence cable to baler twine.

"They didn't have the appearance of professional snares.

"We need to get an appeal out to the public to make sure that people take care when walking their dogs.

"It is illegal to deliberately snare a badger except under special licence, and snares which continues to tighten as the animal struggles to escape are always illegal.

"Snares should never be set on a badger run or in an area of known badger activity. Anyone setting a snare in a position where it is likely to catch a badger could be breaking the law."

He added: "Anyone setting a snare is also breaking the law if all reasonable precautions are not taken to prevent injury to protected and domestic animals.

"Anyone finding a snare similar to the one found in Dolgoch Quarry is asked to contact their local police station and the RSPCA."