ROSS PARRY SYNDICATION: These shocking pictures show how heartless yobs burnt off a defenceless pet rabbit's ears in a sickening attack of pointless cruelty.

RSPCA inspectors have launched an investigation to catch the bunny basher and any possible accomplice after the beloved pet's distraught owners returned from a wedding to make the gruesome discovery.

Natalie Hall and her family had journeyed home to find one-year-old Colin in his hutch with his ears missing.

He was the complete opposite of the fun-loving animal they had known with his wonderful 4ins long ears now little inch-long stumps on top of his head.

Although 25-year-old Natalie initially thought Colin's ears were cut off she now believes they may have been burnt off in the thoughtless attack.

She said: "The vet said they cannot be certain what happened but they may have been burnt off. I cannot understand why someone would want to do this. The vet said he was shocked he was alive."

An RSPCA spokesman said: "The matter has been passed to an RSPCA inspector who will investigate the matter further."