The duck has so far survived but the bolt is stuck through its body.

RSPCA staff are trying to capture the injured bird at Priory Park in Bodmin.

There will be fresh attempts to recover the creature on Wednesday.

They could easily have killed or injured somebody if they had missed their target RSPCA Inspector Les Sutton

The duck, a mallard drake, is still able to walk and swim despite having the bolt from the crossbow lodged in its body.

RSPCA staff have spent hours trying to catch it but each time it flies off or dives into a lake.

They fear they may have to wait until it becomes weak.

It is also under attack from swans and other ducks who sense its plight.

Information appeal

The RSPCA says it wants to hear from anyone with information about the owner of the crossbow.

"Clearly this person needs to be found," said RSPCA Inspector Les Sutton.

"The police certainly need to be notified if anyone has information about who may have been seen out and about with a crossbow.