A local wildlife charity has issued a warning after the death of a rescued owl was caused by a harmful substance. 

RSPCA Oak and Furrows shared a picture of the hapless bird on its social media page, urging people to be mindful of how they discard of chemicals, oil and paint.

The tawny owl was found covered in a contaminant substance which had polluted its feathers and was in a bad way It was then immediately rushed to a vet.

It was given emergency first aid but despite the best efforts to save it, the owl was put into intensive care and later died. 

The charity's plea to the public said: "Not long after he arrived with us he was put in intensive care but started to decline and sadly passed away. It is very likely that he had ingested some contaminants by preening his feathers.

"Please please make sure that discarded chemicals, oil, paint etc are all carefully and correctly disposed of and not left out where animals can access. Not only are these substances dangerous when ingested but many can be absorbed through the skin and be equally as deadly."