A herd of seemingly neglected sheep grazing on a field in Feltham have been rescued following allegations of mistreatment by their owner.
An investigation is underway by Hounslow council's animal control team who were tipped off about the alleged ill treatment by the RSPCA.
A vet assessed the flock at the fields and said the animals were suffering from neglect.
Sadly, some sheep carcasses were found during a visit to the site by the animal control officers, and four sheep were removed immediately to receive urgent care.
The remaining flock were held temporarily under the care of a vet and experienced livestock handlers before they were moved on to a safe place.
Earlier this year in May, Tinkerbell, a week-old lamb was killed in a savage knife attack in Feltham .
All 31 sheep were seized under the Animal Welfare Act (2006) so they could receive the right care and attention as well as a further assessment of their condition.
Investigations into who is responsible for neglecting the animals is ongoing.
The animal control team are putting together the evidence to apply to the courts to decide the fate of the sheep.
Councillor Amrit Mann, deputy leader of Hounslow council, said: “We do not tolerate the mistreatment of helpless animals.
“The animal control team acted quickly to protect the sheep as soon as they became aware that they were in danger.
“Thanks to their intervention, the sheep are now receiving the care and attention they so desperately needed.
“Ultimately, it’s down to the courts to decide what the future holds for these animals but we will do all we can to hold those who have been neglecting the sheep to account.”
To find out more about the animal control team visit Hounslow council's animal welfare website.
