Swans are among those being targeted in the attacks

Edinburgh West MP John Barrett unveiled details of the Scottish SPCA register which will record illegal attacks on animals across the country.

From 1 June vets, wildlife officers and members of the public will be able to log on to the charity's website and enter details of an incident.

The information will then make up the most comprehensive database of airgun attacks on animals in the UK.

The charity set up the database after publishing its Airgun Agony report, which revealed that at least three animals were attacked each week.

Airgun crime is causing suffering to animals the length and breadth of Scotland John Barrett Edinburgh West MP

The report, published in January, discovered cats were the most common victims, followed by wild birds.

However, the Scottish SPCA believes the figures are just the tip of the iceberg, with many suspected attacks not reported.

Their figures also show a significant increase in incidents during the summer holidays.

The Liberal Democrat MP said he was "shocked to the core" when he read the report.

"I could not believe that so many animals were being targeted through airgun misuse," he said.

Poster campaign

"It is time for the government to recognise that airgun misuse against animals is a very widespread problem.

"Airgun crime is causing suffering to animals the length and breadth of Scotland."

Mr Barrett also launched the charity's poster and leaflet campaign which highlights the suffering caused to animals by airgun crime.

Press and parliamentary assistant Natalie Smart said: "The Scottish SPCA is Scotland's oldest animal welfare charity and our mission is to prevent cruelty to animals and promote humanity and kindness in their treatment.

"The Airgun Agony campaign completely encapsulates this mission.

"The society is dedicated to seeing an end to the suffering caused by the illegal misuse of airguns."