Swan 'killed with crossbow bolt' in Antrim
A swan has apparently been killed with a crossbow bolt in Antrim.
Images surfaced yesterday evening of the swan in the Loughshore area of the town, with the crossbow bolt stuck in its head.
Attempts were made by police and vets to rescue the bird but it had moved into open water and couldn't be reached.
It later died of its injuries.
Local Alliance councillor Neil Kelly said the attack was disgraceful.
“It is disgusting someone would apparently attack a defenceless animal and in such a way. Anyone who would do so is clearly a dangerous individual,” he said.
“The seeming use of such a serious weapon as a crossbow lends this incident an even more sinister edge.
"This vile brutality towards animals should have no place in a decent society and it’s difficult to comprehend the mind of someone who would willingly partake in such behaviour.
“I would encourage anyone who has information on this incident to report it to police immediately so the perpetrator can hopefully be stopped from carrying out any further similar incidents."