Police appeal for witnesses after dead Canada goose and injured swan found at Fleet Pond
It's understood the swan had been hit with a ball bearing
Police are appealing for witnesses and information after a dead Canada goose and an injured swan were found at Fleet Pond.
Officers were called to the area at 11.16am on 10th May by a member of the public who had found the birds.
It's understood the swan had been hit with a ball bearing - and is now being cared for by The Swan Sanctuary.
It follows reports three white men, in their late teens to early 20s, were spotted near the pond at around 7.30pm on 9th May.
One of the group reportedly used a sling shot to hit and injure a pigeon.
Earlier this month, police also received a report that two teenage boys and a teenage girl were seen near the pond on the evening of 2nd May, with one of the group using a catapult.
The force says it's unclear whether all, or any, of the incidents are connected, but confirmed it's taking the reports 'extremely seriously'.
Hart Police Sergeant, Geoff Hill, said: “We appreciate incidents of this nature have a huge impact on local communities and we want to reassure people that we are taking these reports seriously.
“Intentionally harming defenceless birds and wildlife is shocking and it simply won’t be tolerated. We are carrying out enquiries and we are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed anything or has any information that may help us identify those involved.
“We would like to take this opportunity to remind people that it is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 to kill, harm, or take a wild bird. It is also an offence to take, damage or destroy the nest of a wild bird.
“We would also urge anyone with information about crimes against wildlife, including individuals acting suspiciously around wild birds or active nests, or anyone carrying or using catapults in their local area to please report this to police.”