Police are working with wildlife experts to investigate the illegal destruction of a badger sett in north Norfolk.
The sett, which appears to have been dug up and entrances filled with soil on or around Sunday February 27, was found in woods near Weybourne.
Under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992, it is a criminal offence to damage, destroy, obstruct access to an entrance to a sett, cause a dog to enter a sett or disturb a badger when it is occupying a sett, and offences can attract severe penalties.
Police and Natural England wildlife advisors are working together to investigate the offence.
PC Jason Pegden, wildlife crime officer with Wells Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: 'This sort of badger persecution is unacceptable, especially as we are nearing the mating season for badgers. I would urge anyone with further information on this or any other wildlife offences to contact me at Wells Police Station.'
Call 0845 456 4567 or e-mail sntholt@norfolk.pnn.police.uk.
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