By PATRICK JOHNSON

pjohnson@repub.com



SPRINGFIELD - Investigators believe a 2-month-old kitten found wandering in Hungry Hill with serious burns was intentionally set on fire, said a spokeswoman with the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.



The kitten was found in the roadway by a passerby and taken to the MSPCA on Union Street at about 4:30 p.m., said Candy Lash.



She said the kitten had serious burns to its ears and fur, its whiskers were singed off, and it had a laceration on its tongue.



Investigators believe the kitten was burned shortly before it was found in the road. Its fur still smelled smoky, she said.



Lash declined to specify where in Hungry Hill the kitten was found, saying that information forms part of the investigation.



The kitten also appeared to be emaciated. It weighs two pounds and "fits in your hand," she said.



Lash said the injuries are serious but the kitten is expected to survive. Once it recovers sufficiently, it will be available for adoption.

Kitten expected to recover

Staff have taken to calling the brown, short-hair tabby Nicholas, after St. Nicholas, Lash said. "It fits the spirit of the season," she said.

Animal police assigned to the MSPCA are investigating the case as an intentional burning. It is not considered an accident, she said.

The MSPCA Law Enforcement Division is offering a $500 reward for information leading to the conviction of those responsible, she said.

Anyone with information is asked to call (413) 750-7661 or (800) 628-5808.