Swan dead and another injured in catapult attack

A swan has died and another has been injured after being shot by a catapult in what a wildlife charity has branded as "needlessly cruel".

The Windsor flock is already suffering from bird flu that the Swan Support rescue charity in Bray, Berkshire, said has killed more than 30 swans.

Wendy Hermon, group manager, said she received reports of a "bloodied swan" in Windsor on Tuesday morning.

Thames Valley Police confirmed it was investigating the catapult incidents and are encouraging anyone with information to contact them.

She said: "I discovered that two had been shot with catapults and one fatally.

"Dealing with bird flu alone is incredibly tough by its nature, it still breaks our hearts but we at least understand it.

"But hurting these beautiful creatures with catapults is needlessly cruel and a step too far.

"Attending to the swans that are injured, dying, or killed so senselessly is taking a real toll on our mental well-being."

Hermon explained bird flu was having a "devastating" impact with many swans dying and she also had to deal with another attacked by a dog in the past week.

"We are exhausted, devastated and struggling to cope with what is happening," she added.

She explained she was sharing what is happening to the Windsor flock not to upset anyone but to be transparent about the "emotional strain the situation is placing on the charity who are trying to protect the swans".

She is urging dog owners to keep pets on a lead and if anyone sees anyone targeting swans with catapults to report it.