A wild rabbit found dead with a firework strapped to it suffered "barbaric abuse", an animal welfare charity has said.
The Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is offering a £500 reward for information leading to a successful conviction after the remains of the rabbit were found in Newcastle, Co Down, early on Tuesday November 3.
The charity appealed to anyone with information to contact police.
Chief executive Brendan Mullan said: "This is a horrific incident and we are appalled to see such barbaric abuse of our local wildlife.
"We cannot comprehend the motives of the individuals who carry out such brutal attacks against vulnerable animals like this.
"Unfortunately this is a stark reminder of the many challenges we are facing with regards to animal welfare in Northern Ireland."
