A serial animal killer is thought to be behind the mutilation of a cat found dead just days after Christmas.

Originally known as the Croydon Cat Killer, the mystery attacker is thought to have killed hundreds of cats, foxes and even rabbits since 2015.

In less than three years, the killer’s patch has grown from Croydon, to across the country, granting them the moniker the UK Animal Killer.

Tony Jenkins, from South Norwood Animal Rescue Liberty said the attacks “didn’t really stop” over the festive period.

In all of the attacks, which are now thought to total more than 400, the butcher has left his victims mutilated.

At 3pm on New Year’s Eve, a domestic short hair cat was found dead in Langton Green.

The attack follows the discovery of a decapitated cat in Snodland in November, while Tilly, a nine-year-old domestic shorthair was found dead with her tail cut off in Maidstone in October.

In 2015, Mr Jenkins, founder of the animal rescue charity, began investigating numerous animal deaths in the South Norwood area.

Since then he has began working with a number of different police forces, including Kent Police, co-ordinating the scenes of potential killings.

He said: “We’ve had two possible killings on Christmas Day and two more on New Year’s Day.

“We had decided to stop posting updates over Christmas, just to give people a bit of a break, but the attacks didn’t really stop.

“We’re revealing incidents now as it’s important we let owners know so they can take measures to protect their cats.

“It’s quite simple really - keep your cats indoors, particularly at night. If you’re letting them outside, keep them under supervision.”

A spokesman from Kent Police said: “Kent Police was called at 3pm on Sunday, December 31 2017 following the discovery of a dead cat in The Boundary, Langton Green which appeared to have been mutilated.

“Anyone with information should call 01622 604100 quoting reference YY/039278/17.”

The killer is thought to be white, in his 40s, of average build and believed to be between 5ft 8 and 5ft 11.

He is thought to have possible acne scarring and may be wearing a headlamp or carrying a torch.

If spotted, witnesses are urged not approach the suspect, and instead call 999, mentioning Operation Takahe.