COCKERELS are among the most abused and neglected of all animals rescued by centre staff. From the moment they are hatched they are often unwanted, as everyone wants the hens but not the cockerels. Very often they are destroyed when they are just days old

COCKERELS are among the most abused and neglected of all animals rescued by centre staff.

From the moment they are hatched they are often unwanted, as everyone wants the hens but not the cockerels.

Very often they are destroyed when they are just days old.

Employees of the RSCPA Southridge Animal Centre in South Mimms say those cockerels allowed to live often suffer horrible fates, abandoned, or kept in inappropriate accommodation.

Currently there are three birds looking for new homes and families.

A spokesman told the WHT: "We have met so many terribly neglected birds, some so weak that they are unable to stand, so injured that almost all of their faces and necks are open infected wounds.

"Some have been set on fire, some whose legs have been so tightly fettered that they have been permanently damaged, some who have inches of faeces clogged around their feet."

He added: "These birds are often made out to be aggressive animals but in truth they are not, they are almost without fail good to handle and to treat, and it is as if they know that we are trying to help them."

* If you can offer any of the cockerels, who rarely crow, a new start in life, call the animal care home on 0300 123 0704.

Alternatively you can visit them at the centre open every day, except Wednesdays, from 11am until 4.15pm.

* ARE you worried about what will happen to your beloved pets after you pass away?

Safeguard their future with the RSPCA's free Home for Life service.

Visit www.donations.rspca.org.uk/HomeForLife for more information.