The Guardia Civil has launched proceedings against two people following an investigation into alleged animal cruelty in Torre Pacheco, Murcia.

Specialists from the Nature Protection Service, known as SEPRONA, began inquiries after receiving reports of fighting cockerels and goldfinches being kept at a property in the town. During an inspection, officers found several Spanish fighting cockerels inside cages, many with mutilated crests and roughly cut wattles.

Officers also reported that the birds’ spurs had been shaved to increase the damage inflicted during fights. Some of the animals showed traces of blood, suggesting they had recently taken part in cockfights.

In addition, two protected finches, believed to be goldfinches, were discovered at the property. Authorities suspect the birds may have been captured from the wild or bought on the black market. The two individuals are being investigated for alleged animal abuse and offences against protected flora and fauna.