A stag was discovered beheaded in Phoenix Park, sparking shock and concern from animal welfare groups and local authorities.

Fingal County Council said it was “shocked” and “deeply concerned” following what appears to have been the deliberate killing of the animal. 

The stag’s head was reportedly taken from the grounds of Newbridge house in Donabate, and staff believe it to have been removed as a trophy.

Laura Broxton, spokesperson for Ireland’s National Animal Rights Association, spoke on Newstalk Breakfast about the incident, describing it as “absolutely horrific.”

“I can only imagine the fear, the pain, and the suffering that stag went through,” she said.

 “We hope those responsible are caught and brought to justice.”

Broxton said the incident reflects “a wider issue in Ireland at the moment” relating to wildlife crime, blood sports, and rising cases of animal cruelty nationwide. 

Image: Robertharding / Alamy

She also raised concerns about illegal wildlife trading:

“I imagine his head has been sold on in an underground wildlife trade.”

When asked how large-scale this trade is, Broxton warned that it is “quite extensive” and “pretty prevalent.” She claimed that illegal shootings and killings of animals, including stags, can make thousands of euro on the black market.

Broxton criticised the lack of resources available to combat these crimes.

“The Gardaí don’t have the numbers to operate specialised wildlife units,” she said, adding that organisations like the NSPCA and the National Parks and Wildlife Service are underfunded and unable to properly police the issue.

She further suggested that legal licensing for hunting stags must be reviewed:

“We need to look at blood sports too. Licences are still given out legally to shoot stags and create trophies. It does happen.”

The investigation into the stag’s death is ongoing.

Written by Annemarie Roberts