Shocking pictures show a prone seagull discovered with a ball bearing lodged at the base of its skull.

The disturbing discovery was made in John Hall Close, Oare, near Faversham, on Friday May 10.

It comes after a duck was shot and killed with a catapult nearby at Chart Gunpowder Mill recently while sitting on her eggs – it is unclear whether the attacks are linked.

The seagull was taken to Swaleside Veterinary Surgery, where X-rays showed the “huge” lump of metal embedded in soft tissue near his cervical spine.

Serena Henderson from Columbines Wildlife Care, which took in the gull after it received emergency surgery, told KentOnline: “The vets did a fab job of removing the ball bearing and it is now being kept as evidence for the police wildlife crime unit.

“Wildlife is assessed when they arrive to us.

“It is not that unusual to see wounds inflicted by humans, certainly in some species more than others as sadly we live in a world where the life of some animals is valued more than that of others.”

Describing how catapult crime is commonplace against a multitude of bird species, she added: "It is not that unusual to see wounds inflicted by humans, certainly in some species more than others as sadly we live in a world where the life of some animals is valued more than that of others."

Mrs Henderson explained how the loss of one bird can have wide-reaching repercussions.

“The loss of one bird at this time of year doesn’t end there. For example a bird may be left without a nesting partner, they may be leaving a nest of chicks which will then starve and die, “ she said.

“The chain of loss is very sad and has a detrimental effect on wildlife already pushed into the fringes.

“Every living thing gets only one life and it’s as important to that animal as our life is to us.”

The incident has been reported to the police.

Miraculously, the bird survived his ordeal and is now recovering.

Mrs Henderson added: “At this time we are doing physio with him and trying to build back strength.

“He is able to stand now but naturally is very unsteady.”

In a similar and equally shockingly incident,,a duck was shot and killed nearby at Chart Gunpowder Mill recently while sitting on her eggs.

Her babies were taken in by the same rescue, and four out of nine successfully hatched.

Their chance of survival was originally slim, as they were “stone cold” when found.

Kent Police has been contacted for more information.