Cruel hunters chopped all fours paws off a badger which had already suffered horrific injuries.

Members of the North East Essex Badger group were called out to the animal which had been spotted near Bradley Hill, Ovington, near Tilbury Juxta Clare last Thursday.

It is thought the badger was initially attacked by dogs before being mutilated by humans.

Pictures of the injured badger, many ofwhich are too graphic to print, show that the animal has been split open from its throat to its stomach.

The badger’s nose and lips were also bloodied and cut.

Renee Hockley-Byam, chairman of the North East Essex Badger Group, said: “It is just so wicked.

“I do believe this was deliberate, it cannot possibly be an accident."

Anyone with information is asked to call Badger Watch on 07751 572 175  or

Essex Police’s wildlife officer Andy Long on 101.