The RSPCA have launched an investigation after more than EIGHTY rabbits were found cruelly dumped in a wood.

Mystery surrounds how the staggering number of bunnies came to be abandoned at Chaddesley Wood between Kidderminster and Bromsgrove, Worcs.

Kind-hearted local residents began trying to save the rabbits along with animal rescue volunteers and the RSPCA following the discovery on Monday, November 11.

Sadly, the bodies of 23 dead rabbits were recovered while 56 were taken in Lucky Bunny and Friends Rescue, based in Dudley, West Mids.

The RSPCA said they had since taken two extra rabbits to a vets after residents began reporting finding others around the location.

RSPCA Inspector Boris Lasserre said: “Any animal being deliberately left behind to fend for itself is a serious case of neglect, and it is increasingly shocking that so many rabbits are abandoned at the same time.

"The RSPCA is actively investigating this.

“Thankfully a large number of live rabbits were rescued by the members of the public who came across them, and put them in a place of safety overnight.

"It is heartening to hear that so many people have been able to help as charities rely on working in partnership with each other to create a better world for every kind.

“We’d like to thank Lucky Bunny and Friends in particular for taking in the 56 live rabbits and we have offered veterinary assistance to them if required for any in need.”

Boris said he found the 23 dead rabbits dumped along the path, and also found two live rabbits amongst them, which were taken into RSPCA care.

The remains of the dead rabbits have been examined by a veterinary surgeon and post mortems will also be arranged.

Boris added: “These rabbits have clearly been living in a poor environment, and had numerous wounds suggesting there was infighting amongst the group.

"This increases the concerns as to where they have come from and the conditions they were kept in.

“We are keen to hear from anyone who may know who is responsible for abandoning these rabbits in such an irresponsible way.

“Sadly, abandoned and neglected rabbits are becoming an increasing problem as charities are seeing more and more coming into our care.

"We understand that times are tough at the moment but please never abandon your pet but ask for help before things get so desperate or the animal suffers.

“The RSPCA has a cost of living hub to help owners access help.

"The charity has also launched its Join The Christmas Rescue campaign ahead of what is expected to be another bleak winter for thousands of animals.

“Anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area or has first hand information that could assist the RSPCA’s investigation should contact the charity’s appeal line, confidentially, on 0300 123 8018.”

Lucky Bunny and Friends Rescue is now working with five other charities to help with the ongoing care of the rabbits.

In a Facebook post, they said: “We have taken in 16 males and 40 females who we suspect are pregnant and they are all in a bad way.

“We are a small rescue run from Heathers home by a small team of 4 of us.

“All of these rabbits at a minimum will need neutering/spaying and vaccinating.

“We will do a more in-depth post later for now we are focusing on the bunnies and trying to work out a plan.”