A catapult-wielding thug may have been behind the killing of 13 chickens.

The birds were targeted in Sellindge, with a 14th one injured, and police now believe they may have been shot with a catapult.

The chickens were first thought to have died of disease when they perished on April 7.

But tests by Defra (Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) have now ruled that out.

PC Darren Chapman said: “The owners are extremely upset and cannot understand why anyone would want to kill and maim the chickens, which to them are family pets.

“It is not known for certain how they were killed but there is a possibility that they were shot with a catapult or struck with another object.”

The birds had been rehomed to the Sellindge smallholding when they died.

Two boys, aged 14 and 16, have been questioned about the deaths and investigations are continuing.

Anyone with information should contact PC Chapman at Kent Police on 101, giving the reference number ZY/10714.