Updated 12:30

There's public revulsion in Co. Offaly after the butchering of 22 pet ducks.

The birds usually hang out in the harbour in Edenderry, but their severed heads have been found over a number of weeks on a canal bank.

"This is not a game we're playing and this is not public entertainment," says ARAN's John Carmody. "We've been reporting all week about the increase in violent crimes towards animals and that scenes in Love/Hate are putting sick ideas into already sick individuals who get kicks from tormenting and torturing defenseless animals. Today we are horrified at the latest reports of ducks heads been ripped off. Was this just a coincidence or was it some heartless individual with serious time on their hands, I beg to differ and we're out to get them locked up."

ARAN feels individuals who engage in such sordid behavior need psychological evaluation as well as a stiff fine and jail sentence if convicted.

The Animal Rights Action Network is offering the reward for information that may lead to a conviction.

The flock of 40 had been donated by a farm to a community project.

Local Councillor Noel Cribbin says nature lovers in the area are devastated: