Express & Star

Swan shot ten times in sickening Staffordshire attack

A swan had to be put down after it was shot ten times in a 'disturbing' attack.

Published

The male bird was found with a hole in its neck and peppered with air gun pellets in Burntwood.

The RSPCA is now appealing for information following the prolonged attack.

The swan was found by water near to Big Crane Brook on Cannock Road, which connects to Chasewater, on March 30.

RSPCA inspector Rob Crutchley collected the bird and took him to the charity's Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre, in Nantwich, Cheshire.

An x-ray showed that the swan had been shot 10 times with an air gun and pellets were found in the bird's wings, chest, legs, tail and beak.

The protected bird was so badly injured that he was put to sleep to prevent any further suffering.

Inspector Crutchley said: "The swan had been completely peppered with pellets – he would have been in so much pain after what could have been a prolonged attack.

"It is shocking and disturbing to think that someone thinks it is acceptable to do this to an innocent animal. It is cruel and causes horrific suffering."

It is against the law to kill or injure wild birds, except under licence, and individuals can be fined up to £5,000 and potentially up to six months in prison for each bird killed.

Burntwood North Councillor Sue Woodward said: "Why anyone would want to kill or injure such a magnificent bird is beyond me.

"I assume the swan must have got lost and wandered away from the water. Whoever did do this is appalling, they have must have no sense of morality."

People with information should contact the RSPCA in complete confidence on 0300 123 8018.

Sorry, we are not accepting comments on this article.